What Are GLP-1 Medications? A Guide for Australians

by Burst Health April 8, 2026

If you’ve been exploring weight management options, you may have come across the term “GLP-1 medications” in the news, on social media, or during conversations with your doctor. These prescription medications have attracted significant attention in Australia and around the world — but understanding what they actually are, how they work, and what role they play in a broader treatment plan can be difficult when so much of the conversation is driven by headlines rather than facts.

This guide is designed to give you a clear, straightforward overview of GLP-1 receptor agonists as a medication class. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to promote any specific product or treatment. If you’re considering your options, the most important step is always a conversation with a qualified Australian healthcare provider who can assess your individual circumstances.

What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1, a naturally occurring hormone produced in the gut. When you eat, your body releases GLP-1 as part of a group of hormones called incretins. These incretin hormones play a key role in how your body processes food — they help signal the pancreas to release insulin, slow the rate at which your stomach empties, and communicate with areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation.

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of prescription medications that mimic the action of this natural hormone. By activating the same receptors that GLP-1 normally binds to, these medications may influence appetite signalling, feelings of fullness after eating, and the speed of gastric emptying. They were originally developed and used in the management of type 2 diabetes, but some formulations have since received regulatory approval for use in chronic weight management under specific clinical criteria.

It’s worth noting that GLP-1 receptor agonists are not the only medications that work on appetite or metabolic pathways. Your doctor may consider a range of options depending on your health profile, and GLP-1 receptor agonists represent just one class within a broader treatment landscape.

How Are GLP-1 Medications Used in Australia?

In Australia, all prescription medications — including GLP-1 receptor agonists — are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). The TGA evaluates medications for quality, safety, and efficacy before they can be legally supplied in this country. A medication must be entered on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) before it can be prescribed or dispensed.

GLP-1 receptor agonists are prescription-only medications in Australia. This means they cannot be purchased over the counter and must be prescribed by a registered medical practitioner — such as a general practitioner or specialist — after a clinical assessment. The prescribing doctor will determine whether a particular medication is appropriate based on your medical history, current health, and treatment goals.

Some GLP-1 receptor agonists are listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), which may reduce the out-of-pocket cost for eligible patients. However, PBS listing often comes with specific criteria — for example, the medication may only be subsidised for patients with a particular diagnosis or who meet certain clinical thresholds. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise whether PBS subsidies apply to your situation.

Who May Be Considered for GLP-1 Treatment?

The decision to prescribe any medication — including a GLP-1 receptor agonist — is a clinical one, made by a qualified healthcare provider. There is no single eligibility checklist that applies across all patients, because treatment decisions depend on a combination of individual factors.

Generally speaking, a doctor may consider GLP-1 receptor agonists as part of a weight management plan for patients who meet certain clinical criteria. These criteria typically relate to body mass index (BMI), the presence of weight-related health conditions (sometimes called comorbidities), and whether other approaches have been attempted. However, the specific thresholds and requirements can vary depending on the medication, the indication, and whether it is being prescribed under PBS or private prescription.

Factors your doctor may take into account include:

Your current BMI and weight history
Whether you have related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk factors, or sleep apnoea
Your history with other weight management approaches, including dietary and lifestyle interventions
Any medications you are currently taking and potential interactions
Your overall health profile, including kidney and liver function

It is important to understand that not everyone who wishes to try a GLP-1 medication will be clinically suitable for one. Your doctor is the appropriate person to make this assessment.

What Does the Treatment Process Typically Involve?

If a doctor determines that a GLP-1 receptor agonist may be appropriate for you, the treatment process generally involves several stages. While the specifics vary between medications, the following provides a general overview of what patients can expect.

Medical consultation

Treatment begins with a thorough medical assessment. This may be conducted in person or, in some cases, via a telehealth consultation with a registered Australian doctor. The consultation allows the prescriber to review your medical history, discuss your goals, and determine whether a GLP-1 medication is clinically appropriate. Blood tests or other investigations may be requested.

Prescription and dispensing

If the doctor issues a prescription, it is filled by a registered Australian pharmacy. GLP-1 receptor agonists are typically administered via subcutaneous injection (a small injection under the skin), though some newer formulations may be available in oral form. Your pharmacist or prescribing doctor will explain how to use the medication correctly.

Dose titration and monitoring

Most GLP-1 medications involve a dose titration schedule, meaning you start on a lower dose that is gradually increased over several weeks. This approach is designed to help your body adjust. Regular follow-up appointments — whether in person or via telehealth — allow your doctor to monitor your response, adjust the dose if needed, and address any questions or concerns.

Potential Considerations and What to Discuss with Your Doctor

Like all prescription medications, GLP-1 receptor agonists come with potential considerations that your doctor will discuss with you before and during treatment. It is not appropriate for this article to provide specific medical guidance on side effects, contraindications, or risks — that is the role of your prescribing doctor and pharmacist.

What we can say is that your healthcare team should explain:

The potential benefits and limitations of the medication in your specific case
Common and less common side effects you should be aware of
What to do if you experience unexpected symptoms
How long treatment is typically continued and what happens when it is stopped
Any lifestyle adjustments that may complement the medication

You should feel comfortable asking your doctor questions about any aspect of your treatment. A well-informed patient is better equipped to participate in their own healthcare decisions.

The Role of Lifestyle Alongside Medication

GLP-1 receptor agonists are not intended to replace healthy lifestyle habits. Australian clinical guidelines consistently emphasise that medication for weight management works best as part of a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes, regular physical activity, behavioural strategies, and ongoing medical support.

In practice, this means that patients who are prescribed a GLP-1 medication will typically also work with their healthcare team on:

Nutrition planning that supports sustainable, long-term eating patterns rather than short-term restrictive diets
Physical activity suited to their current fitness level and any existing health conditions
Behavioural and psychological support, which may include counselling or support groups
Regular health monitoring, including blood tests, weight tracking, and review of overall wellbeing

The goal of a combined approach is to support lasting change rather than relying on medication alone. Your doctor can help you build a plan that integrates all of these elements.

Frequently Asked Questions About GLP-1 Medications in Australia

Are GLP-1 medications available without a prescription in Australia?

No. GLP-1 receptor agonists are prescription-only medications in Australia. They must be prescribed by a registered medical practitioner after a clinical assessment. You cannot legally purchase them over the counter or from overseas without a valid Australian prescription.

Can I get a GLP-1 prescription through telehealth?

In many cases, yes. Telehealth consultations with registered Australian doctors can be used to assess suitability and issue prescriptions where clinically appropriate. The same prescribing standards apply whether the consultation is conducted in person or online.

How long do people typically take GLP-1 medications?

The duration of treatment varies between individuals and depends on clinical response, treatment goals, and your doctor’s assessment. Some patients may use these medications for an extended period, while others may use them for a defined course. This is a decision you and your doctor will make together.

Will I regain weight if I stop taking a GLP-1 medication?

Research suggests that weight regain can occur after stopping GLP-1 medications, which is why ongoing lifestyle changes and medical follow-up are considered important components of any weight management plan. Your doctor can discuss what to expect if treatment is discontinued.

Are GLP-1 medications covered by the PBS?

Some GLP-1 receptor agonists are listed on the PBS for specific indications, such as type 2 diabetes management. PBS coverage for weight management indications may differ and can change over time. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide the most current information about subsidised access.

Further Information

GLP-1 receptor agonist medications are a developing area of medicine in Australia. Your GP or a specialist is best placed to advise whether any class of medication may be appropriate for your individual circumstances. For current information on TGA-registered medicines, visit tga.gov.au. For PBS listings, visit pbs.gov.au.