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Health Advice
Explore expert health articles written by New Zealand doctors, featuring trusted information on common medical conditions, symptoms, and treatments.

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Wegovy vs Ozempic: Key Differences Explained
Semaglutide has taken the world by storm as a leading weight loss and diabetes medication. In New Zealand, Wegovy and Ozempic are often mentioned in the same breath — and for good reason: they’re both based on the same active ingredient. But they’re not the same medication. If you’ve been exploring medical weight loss options, this article will help you understand the key differences between Wegovy and Ozempic, and which might be right for you. What Do Wegovy and Ozempic Ha
Nov 14, 20253 min read


Obesity: Symptoms, Causes & Risk Factors
Obesity is one of the most pressing health concerns in New Zealand today, with rates continuing to climb across all age groups. While it’s often talked about in terms of weight, obesity is a complex medical condition that affects nearly every aspect of a person’s health—from cardiovascular risk to mental wellbeing. Understanding what causes obesity, the early symptoms, and its long-term implications can empower you to take control of your health, especially with the support o
Nov 14, 20254 min read


Ozempic in NZ: How to Get a Prescription Online
Looking to lose weight with the help of medication? You’ve probably heard about Ozempic, the weekly injection that’s made headlines for its impressive weight-loss results. While Ozempic isn’t available in New Zealand for weight management, the same active ingredient — semaglutide — made by the same company, is available under a different brand name: Wegovy. At Pocket Lab, we make it easy to get assessed and prescribed online by a registered NZ doctor — no clinic visit needed.
Oct 26, 20253 min read


Online GP NZ (2026): How to See a Doctor Online Today
When you can’t get in to your usual GP, Online GP Care makes it simple to talk to a New Zealand-registered doctor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for common issues like coughs, rashes, medical certificates , and prescriptions . Some people — such as under-14s and Community Services Card holders — qualify for reduced or no fees. If it’s an emergency, call 111. Chest pain, trouble breathing, stroke symptoms, severe bleeding, anaphylaxis, major burns, or mental-health crisis al
Oct 16, 20252 min read


Wegovy® Side Effects: What You Really Need to Know
I’m Dr Cole Rudolph, a GP with Pocket Lab. Through our weight loss program, I prescribe and support many people on Wegovy® (semaglutide)....
Sep 30, 20252 min read
STI Test NZ: How to Order Online via Pocket Lab
Maintaining sexual health is crucial for your overall well-being. Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is a key step in keeping yourself safe and healthy. In New Zealand, you can now access STI testing with ease through innovative online services like Pocket Lab. This guide will help you navigate the process of ordering an STI test online, ensuring you have all the necessary information for a seamless experience. Request an STI test now via Pocket Lab Un
Sep 30, 20253 min read


How to Use the Wegovy Pen in New Zealand: Step-by-Step
Introduction If you’ve been prescribed Wegovy® in New Zealand, you’ll be using a once-weekly FlexTouch® pen . For many Kiwis, injecting...
Sep 18, 20253 min read


What is Wegovy and How Does it Work in New Zealand?
Introduction Wegovy (semaglutide) is a once-weekly prescription medicine now available in New Zealand for adults and adolescents...
Sep 18, 20253 min read


Wegovy vs Mounjaro in New Zealand: What to Know in 2026
Last updated: February 2026 Medicines like Wegovy, Ozempic, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Saxenda and Victoza are part of a new generation of treatments for weight loss and type 2 diabetes. If you’re in New Zealand, you might be wondering: Which GLP-1 medicines are available now — and how do they compare? Here’s what’s currently available in NZ in 2026. GLP-1 Medicines in New Zealand (2026) Company Medication Main Use Dosing Availability in NZ (2025) Notes Novo Nordisk Wegovy (semaglut
Sep 9, 20252 min read


Switching from Saxenda to Wegovy: What You Should Know
Many people using Saxenda (liraglutide) for weight loss are now considering a switch to Wegovy (semaglutide). Both medicines belong to...
Sep 2, 20252 min read


Men's Hair Loss: Causes, Treatment Options & What Works
Hair loss is a common concern for many men in New Zealand, affecting confidence, self-image, and sometimes even quality of life. While...
Aug 29, 20254 min read


Early Signs of Male Pattern Baldness You Shouldn’t Ignore
Hair loss is a normal part of life, we all shed 50 to 100 hairs a day. But if you're noticing gradual thinning, a receding hairline, or a...
Aug 28, 20254 min read


Common STI Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common and often easily treatable, but many people delay testing because symptoms can be...
Aug 27, 20254 min read


Eczema vs Psoriasis: What’s the Difference?
Eczema and psoriasis are two of the most common skin conditions in New Zealand. They can look similar as both may cause red, inflamed,...
Aug 27, 20254 min read


Weight Loss NZ: Your Guide to Safe, Sustainable Medical Weight Loss in New Zealand
The Reality of Weight Management in NZ Let’s be honest about the health challenge many of us are facing. It’s easy to tune out when you...
Aug 8, 20253 min read


Why Online Prescriptions Are the Future of NZ Healthcare
Over the past few years, healthcare in New Zealand has undergone a significant shift. What was once primarily a face-to-face system is...
Jul 29, 20253 min read


Weight Loss Injections in NZ: What to Know About Online, Doctor-Led Support
If you're struggling to lose weight, you're not alone — and you're not doing anything wrong. For many Kiwis, weight gain is influenced by...
Jul 20, 20252 min read


PrEP in NZ: How to Get a Prescription Online
Looking to get started on PrEP or renew your script? Here's how to access PrEP online with a New Zealand doctor — safely, privately, and...
Jul 15, 20253 min read


Wegovy in NZ: How to Get a Prescription Online
Looking to lose weight with the help of medication? Wegovy, a once-weekly weight loss injection, is now available in New Zealand. At...
Jul 11, 20253 min read


Subsidised Online Doctor Appointments Now Available with Pocket Lab
Accessing quality healthcare in Aotearoa just got easier and more affordable. Pocket Lab is now a Health New Zealand-accredited...
Jul 5, 20252 min read
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