Ozempic in NZ: How to Get a Prescription Online
- Pocket Lab
- Oct 26
- 3 min read
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.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a medication that contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes. It helps regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and promote a feeling of fullness — leading many patients to eat less and lose weight naturally over time.
Although Ozempic is approved for diabetes, its active ingredient is identical to Wegovy, which is specifically approved for weight management.
Ozempic vs Wegovy — What's the Difference?
Both Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide, but they differ in dosage and intended use:
Ozempic – Approved for managing type 2 diabetes, typically at lower doses
Wegovy – A higher-dose version of semaglutide, approved for weight loss
They work the same way in the body, but Wegovy is prescribed for people who want to lose weight rather than manage diabetes.
How Effective Is Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
Studies show that semaglutide can help patients lose an average of 15% of their body weight when combined with diet and exercise.
Example: If you weigh 100 kg, that’s around 15 kg of weight loss on average.
Patients also report feeling more energetic, experiencing improved sleep and mobility, and gaining confidence in maintaining a healthier lifestyle.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects are:
Nausea
Bloating
Constipation or diarrhoea
These usually improve over time.
Rare risks include gallstones or pancreatitis. Your doctor will check it’s safe for you.
Who Shouldn’t Take Semaglutide?
Semaglutide (Ozempic or Wegovy) isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s not recommended if you are:
Pregnant or breastfeeding
Underweight or only mildly overweight
Living with an eating disorder
Taking certain medications or have specific medical conditions
Is Ozempic Available in New Zealand?
At the moment, Ozempic is not available in New Zealand for weight loss.
However, Wegovy — which contains the same ingredient (semaglutide) — launched in NZ in July 2025 and is available by prescription only.
It is not funded by Pharmac, and costs around $500 per month, paid directly to your chosen pharmacy.
How to Get a Semaglutide (Wegovy) Prescription Online with Pocket Lab
Getting an online prescription with Pocket Lab is a simple and efficient process:
Check Your Eligibility – Complete a short online quiz on our Weight Loss page to see if semaglutide may be suitable for you.
Book a Consultation – Choose a same-day or next-day video appointment with one of our registered NZ doctors.
Get Your Prescription Delivered – If appropriate, your prescription will be delivered directly to your home.
Why Choose Pocket Lab?
1. No Clinic Visit Needed
Chat to a real NZ doctor from home — no waiting rooms, no travel. Perfect if you're busy, unwell, or can’t get in to your regular GP.
2. Fast and Easy Access
We offer same-day appointments and can deliver prescriptions straight to your door. No delays, no paperwork.
3. Trusted NZ Doctors
Our experienced GPs are registered in New Zealand and are up to date with weight loss treatments like Ozempic. We also support blood test requests if needed, and provide clear medical advice — not just a script.
4. Transparent Pricing
You’ll know the cost upfront. No hidden fees. If you’re a visitor, you’re still welcome to use our service.
5. Safe, Private and Secure
We use secure systems to protect your health info, and only your chosen pharmacy receives your prescription. Your consultation is confidential.
Ready to Start?
You don’t need a referral. Just book online to find out if semaglutide is right for you. We’re here to make weight loss safe, supported and accessible — no clinic visits required.
