New Weight Loss Drug Mounjaro Arrives in New Zealand, But at What Cost?
A new weapon in the fight against obesity has become available in New Zealand, but access may be limited by its price tag. Mounjaro, a self-administered injection, received regulatory approval in December last year for both type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management, and is now available with a prescription from some pharmacies.
How Does Mounjaro Differ from Existing Options?
Currently, Wegovy is another weight-loss medication available in New Zealand. However, Mounjaro offers a potentially more effective approach, according to obesity doctor Dr Chaey Leem. Mounjaro targets two hormones involved in metabolism, although Wegovy targets only one. “You can kind of believe of the medication unlocking two doors instead of one in your body’s metabolism,” Dr. Leem explained.
Clinical trials support this claim. Patients taking the maximum dose of Mounjaro experienced an average weight loss of 22% of their initial weight, compared to 15% for those on the maximum dose of Wegovy.
The Price of Progress: A Significant Financial Barrier
Despite its potential benefits, the cost of Mounjaro presents a significant hurdle for many New Zealanders. The medication ranges in price from $430 to nearly $900 per month – considerably more expensive than Wegovy. This raises concerns about equitable access to effective weight loss treatments.
Dr. Leem acknowledges the financial strain, stating, “Competition will hopefully help improve the situation for many patients, however, in fact there still might be a long way to go. The drugs are highly expensive, and I do sense for the patients who need it the most but aren’t able to afford a really great option that’s available.”
Beyond Weight Loss: Addressing Stigma and Expanding Treatment Options
The arrival of Mounjaro also highlights the broader issue of obesity stigma. Dr. Leem hopes increased access to effective treatments will help reduce this stigma, potentially paving the way for greater consideration of other options like bariatric surgery, which can be more cost-effective from a public health perspective.
Dr. Leem believes the benefits of Mounjaro outweigh the risks for many patients, and has identified individuals who would benefit from the medication if cost were not a factor.
Future Trends in Weight Management
The introduction of Mounjaro signals a growing trend towards more targeted and effective pharmacological interventions for obesity. Further research is likely to focus on:
- Combination Therapies: Exploring the apply of Mounjaro alongside other medications or lifestyle interventions to maximize results.
- Personalized Medicine: Identifying biomarkers to predict which patients will respond best to specific weight loss drugs.
- Accessibility and Affordability: Finding ways to lower the cost of these medications and ensure equitable access for all who need them.
FAQ
Q: What is Mounjaro used for?
A: Mounjaro is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.
Q: How does Mounjaro operate?
A: Mounjaro targets two hormones involved in regulating metabolism, potentially leading to greater weight loss than medications that target only one.
Q: How much does Mounjaro cost in New Zealand?
A: Mounjaro costs between $430 and nearly $900 per month.
Q: Is Mounjaro available over the counter?
A: No, Mounjaro requires a prescription from a healthcare professional.
Pro Tip: Discuss your weight management options with your doctor to determine the best course of action for your individual needs and health status.
Wish to learn more about managing your weight and overall health? Read the full report on RNZ. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
