Novo Nordisk to redefine obesity care in New Zealand amid push for health equity

Novo Nordisk has launched Wegovy (semaglutide) in New Zealand from 1 July. Originally approved under the name Ozempic in March 2023 for treating adults with type 2 diabetes, semaglutide represents a pivotal advancement in managing obesity and overweight.

In New Zealand, where more than two-thirds of adults and nearly one-third of children grapple with obesity and overweight issues, the collective impact is profound, costing the nation an estimated NZ$4.45 billion annually. Cardiovascular disease further compounds these costs, tallying NZ$3.3 billion.

Misconceptions about obesity in New Zealand mirror those in Australia, often framed as a matter of personal responsibility rather than recognized as a multifaceted chronic condition. The reality is that obesity stems from a complex interplay of social, biological, genetic, and environmental factors beyond individual control.

Acknowledging the challenges in accessing obesity treatments, Novo Nordisk is actively engaging with Pharmac and the New Zealand government to explore avenues for broader, more equitable patient access.

Dr Ana Svensson, Vice President of Medical, Oceania, underscored Novo Nordisk’s longstanding commitment to supporting New Zealanders managing chronic health conditions. She emphasised, “It’s essential we shift our perception of obesity. It’s not a failure of willpower; it’s a chronic disease that requires long-term treatment. Open and non-judgemental conversations between clinicians and patients are vital to help break down stigma and support better long-term health outcomes.

She added, “We encourage healthcare professionals and their patients to discuss weight-related health concerns and the long-term strategies for care and support now available.”

Wegovy initially launched in Australia in August 2024 for weight management and recently received a significant extension approval from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in December 2024. This extension allows Wegovy to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in overweight and obese adults with established cardiovascular disease, excluding those with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

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