Weight Loss Medications

Weight Loss medications now available in NZ

At Weightless, we offer a range of medication options to assist you with weight loss. During your initial consultation with our weight loss physician, medication options will be discussed with you in more detail.  We will determine which medication is suitable for you based on your medical history and weight loss goals.

To qualify for medication you need a BMI of over 27 with a co-morbidity relating to obesity, or a BMI of over 30.

To ensure your progress and success, at times we may need to swap medications due to intolerance or ineffectiveness.

Contrave®

Naltrexone and bupropion hydrochloride are two medications which have been used separately for many years. Studies have shown when taken together orally and twice a day they work centrally on the brain to reduce hunger and cravings.
How much weight loss can I expect?

Studies show that if you follow a diet plan supervised by a dietitian and respond well, you could potentially lose up to 12% of your body weight in a year.  Our clinic’s recent studies indicate even better weight loss results when our team of specialists is involved early on.

What are the side effects?

Contrave® medication may produce side effects such as:

  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Mild headaches and dizziness

For most people, side effects are mild to moderate and lessen with time.

What is the cost?

The retail price for Contrave® is $250 a month for the maximum dosage.

Am I eligible?

You may not qualify for Contrave®  if you have any of the following:

  • A history of a seizure disorder
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Saxenda®

Liraglutide is a once-a-day injectable medication that is 97% the same as a hormone we produce when we are full. It makes you feel fuller sooner and reduces your overall hunger.
How much weight loss can I expect?

Studies show that if you follow a diet plan supervised by a dietitian and respond well, you could potentially lose up to 11.6% of your body weight in a year. Our clinic’s recent studies indicate even better weight loss results when our team of specialists is involved early on.

What are the side effects?

Saxenda® medication may produce side effects such as:

  • Nausea
  • Constipation and diarrhea
  • Pancreatitis (rare)

For most people, side effects are mild to moderate and lessen with time.

What is the cost?

The retail price for Saxenda® medication is $550 a month for the maximum daily dosage of 3mg.

Am I eligible?

You may not qualify for Saxenda®  if you have any of the following:

  • Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease
  • Severe heart failure
  • You are taking other weight loss medications