Semaglutide for Weight Loss in Melbourne: What You Need to Know

What Is Semaglutide?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist — a class of medication originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes that has since been shown to produce significant, sustained weight loss. You may know it by its brand names Ozempic (approved for diabetes) or Wegovy (approved specifically for weight management).

Clinical trials have shown that patients on semaglutide lose an average of 15–17% of their body weight over 68 weeks, making it one of the most effective weight loss medications ever developed.

How Does Semaglutide Work?

Semaglutide works by:

• Reducing appetite — it acts on receptors in the brain to reduce hunger and food cravings
• Slowing gastric emptying — food stays in your stomach longer, helping you feel fuller for longer
• Regulating blood sugar — it improves insulin secretion and reduces glucagon, which is particularly beneficial for patients with type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes

Who Is a Candidate for Semaglutide?

Semaglutide may be appropriate for adults who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or above, OR
• Have a BMI of 27 or above with a weight-related health condition (type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnoea)
• Have not achieved adequate weight loss through lifestyle changes alone

It is not appropriate for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2, or those who are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

What to Expect

Semaglutide is administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection (under the skin). Treatment typically begins at a low dose and is gradually increased over several weeks to minimise side effects.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation — particularly in the early weeks. These usually improve as your body adjusts. Managing these with dietary changes (smaller portions, avoiding fatty or spicy foods) significantly reduces discomfort.

The Importance of Medical Supervision

Semaglutide should always be prescribed and monitored by a qualified doctor. A thorough assessment is needed to confirm suitability, rule out contraindications, and provide ongoing support. Weight loss medications work best as part of a comprehensive program that includes dietary guidance and lifestyle changes.

Dr Chun Guan Chong at Medi Weight Loss is experienced in prescribing and managing GLP-1 receptor agonists as part of a personalised weight management program.

Book a Consultation

To find out whether semaglutide or another weight loss medication is right for you, book a consultation at Medi Weight Loss, Bayswater — call (03) 9967 1996 or visit mediweightloss.com.au.