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Panduan Perawatan Penurunan Berat Badan Berbasis GLP-1 di Singapura: Ozempic, Wegovy, dan Mounjaro

Obesity is a chronic, treatable neurometabolic disease that is projected to affect nearly a quarter of the world’s population by 2035. Until recently, advances in the development of pharmacotherapy for obesity were modest. 

With the advent of GLP-1-based weight loss injections such as Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy, Saxenda, and Mounjaro, treatment of obesity has been transformed. These medications are becoming more popular in Singapore as doctor-prescribed options for managing obesity and related health issues. They target hormonal pathways that influence appetite and metabolism, offering medical support where lifestyle changes alone may not be enough.

This guide outlines the types of injections available, how they work, the various benefits, and what to expect, helping you make informed decisions with guidance from a qualified doctor.

What is Ozempic (Semaglutide)?

Ozempic is another name for semaglutide, a medication originally developed to help manage blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. In people with type 2 diabetes, this helps improve control of blood sugar and lowers the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

In addition to its role in diabetes management, semaglutide has also been shown to assist with weight loss. These effects have led to its use, in higher doses, as a treatment for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight when combined with lifestyle changes.

Semaglutide weight loss injections belong to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They mimic the natural hormone glucagon-like peptide-1, which activates GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, brain, and gut to regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin secretion, reducing appetite, and promoting a feeling of fullness. 

Used alongside diet and exercise, these injections support penurunan berat badan by helping individuals eat less and feel satisfied for longer. They are commonly prescribed for individuals with obesity or weight-related health conditions.

In addition to the well-known Ozempic, several other GLP-1 receptor agonists containing semaglutide or similar compounds are available in Singapore. These medications regulate appetite and improve blood sugar control, offering individuals more options for medically supported weight loss.

Wegovy

Wegovy is an injection containing semaglutide used to support weight loss in individuals who are obese or overweight and have weight-related health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol. It may also help reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease or death in adults with obesity. Wegovy is used alongside lifestyle changes like a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Wegovy reduces appetite, slows stomach emptying, and promotes fullness, helping individuals eat less. It is prescribed in higher doses than Ozempic and is used specifically for weight management, alongside diet and exercise. Studies found that semaglutide use led to an average weight loss of up to 16% after 68 weeks.

Mounjaro

Mounjaro is a once-weekly injection used to treat adults with type 2 diabetes. It has also been shown to support weight loss when combined with diet and exercise, even in individuals without diabetes. Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which activates two hormone receptors, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide / glucagon-like peptide 1 (GIP and GLP-1), to regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite and induce weight loss.

Tirzepatide may be more efficacious than semaglutide and has additional evidence for the relief of conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This dual action helps control post-meal sugar spikes, prolongs fullness, and lowers calorie intake, making it more effective for weight loss than GLP-1-only medications like semaglutide.

Mounjaro is available in Singapore in private specialist clinics and some specialist public clinics. Tirzepatide has been associated with an average weight loss of up to 23% over 72 weeks.

Rybelsus

Rybelsus is an oral tablet containing semaglutide, used to manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It is taken once daily alongside diet and exercise.

Rybelsus has been shown to support weight reduction in some individuals. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to increase insulin release, reduce appetite, slow stomach emptying, and lower glucagon levels, helping reduce food intake and promote gradual weight loss.

Saxenda

Saxenda is a once-daily injectable medication used for weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight and weight-related health conditions. It is also approved for use in adolescents aged 12 to 17 years with obesity and a body weight over 60kg. Saxenda is used together with a healthy diet and exercise plan.

Saxenda contains liraglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces appetite, slows stomach emptying, and helps you feel full for longer. These effects lower calorie intake and support gradual, sustained weight loss. Patients had an estimated mean weight loss of up to 6% on liraglutide after 56 weeks.

While GLP-1-based treatments such as semaglutide are best known for supporting weight loss, they offer a wide range of health benefits that go beyond shedding excess weight. These effects make it a valuable treatment option for several chronic conditions.

Type 2 Diabetes Management

GLP-1-based treatments such as semaglutide were originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes. They improve blood sugar control by lowering HbA1c levels and increasing the likelihood of reaching healthy glucose targets.

Such injections achieve this through regulating insulin and glucagon levels in the blood. Additionally, they may help slow the progression of cardiovascular complications and diabetic kidney disease.

Protecting Cardiovascular Health

Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide can significantly reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and death. This benefit is seen in individuals with and without diabetes, particularly those with a history of cardiovascular disease.

Heart Failure Symptom Relief

In people with obesity-related heart failure, semaglutide has been associated with improvements in symptoms such as fatigue, breathlessness, and swelling. It may also enhance physical function and exercise tolerance.

Reducing Progression of Kidney Disease 

Individuals with chronic kidney disease with or without type 2 diabetes have been shown to experience a reduction in albuminuria with the use of semaglutide.

Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea 

Among individuals with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, tirzepatide was found to reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea through lowering body weight and blood pressure. This improved sleep-related patient-reported outcomes. 

Other Possible Benefits Being Studied 

There is currently evidence of promising results on the use of tirzepatide on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis with liver fibrosis (fatty liver with fibrosis).

GLP-1-based treatments such as semaglutide are generally well-tolerated and offer multiple health benefits, but like all medications, they can cause side effects. Most are mild and improve as your body adjusts, but some may require medical attention. These can include:

  • Nausea, vomiting, or bloating 
  • Constipation, diarrhoea, or stomach discomfort
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Loss of appetite
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Headache
  • Redness, swelling, itching, or pain at the injection site
  • Rarely, lumps or scarring may occur if injections are not rotated


In rare cases, more serious risks can occur and may require immediate medical attention. These include:

  • Pancreatitis: Sudden severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
  • Gallbladder problems: Pain in the upper abdomen, yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Kidney issues: Decreased urination, swelling, or rapid weight gain
  • Low blood sugar (when used with insulin or sulfonylureas): Dizziness, sweating, confusion, shakiness
  • Allergic reactions: Rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing
  • Mood or mental health changes: Depression, irritability, or suicidal thoughts
  • Rare eye complications: A very small increased risk of non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) has been reported
  • Kanker tiroid: Unusual lumps in the neck, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing


It’s best to speak to your doctor before starting GLP-1-based treatments such as semaglutide to understand the potential side effects and risks, especially if you have existing health conditions. Always report any unusual symptoms, and do not stop or adjust your medication without medical advice.

In Singapore, the cost of Ozempic typically ranges from $300 to $500 per pen, depending on the dosage and clinic. At a weekly maintenance dose (such as 0.25mg or 0.5mg), one pen generally lasts around four weeks.

Other weight loss medications available in Singapore include:

  • Wegovy: Like Ozempic, it is injected weekly. The cost of Wegovy treatment per month ranges between $300 to $600, depending on the dose that has been prescribed.
  • Rybelsus: An oral version of semaglutide taken daily, available in 3mg, 7mg, or 14mg doses. A box of tablets is priced between $280 and $400, depending on the strength.
  • Saxenda: Taken daily, each pen lasts about 10 days, and a month’s supply (around 3 pens) ranges from $480 to $640, or roughly $120 to $160 per pen.
  • Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): Tirzepatide is injected weekly; the cost per month varies between $370 and $820, depending on the dose that has been prescribed


Prices may vary between private clinics and are not inclusive of consultation, investigations and follow-up fees. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate option based on your health needs and treatment goals.

*These prices are intended as a general guide and are subject to change. Please consult your healthcare professional for the cost of each recommended treatment.

person holding a semaglutide pen

GLP-1-based treatments such as semaglutide should be injected on the same day each week, at any time of day, with or without food. If you are using Saxenda (liraglutide), daily morning injections are generally recommended. Here are the general steps to administer a GLP-1-based injection such as semaglutide:

Step 1: Gather your supplies

Prepare your semaglutide pen, a new needle, alcohol swabs, and a sharps disposal container. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Step 2: Check the medication

Inspect the solution in the pen. It should be clear and colourless. Do not use the pen if the liquid is cloudy, discoloured, or contains particles.

Step 3: Choose your injection site

Choose one of the recommended subcutaneous injection sites: Stomach (at least 5cm or a 3-finger breadth away from your belly button), front of the thigh, or back of the upper arm. Rotate sites weekly to avoid skin irritation.

Step 4: Clean the area

Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen injection site. Allow the area to dry before injecting.

Step 5: Inject the medication

Attach a new needle to the pen. Hold the pen at a 90-degree angle to your skin. Insert the needle swiftly and steadily. Press and hold the injection button until the full dose is delivered. Keep the needle in place for a few seconds before removing it to ensure complete delivery.

Step 6: Dispose of supplies

Carefully remove the needle and place it in a puncture-resistant sharps container. Do not reuse needles. Store the sharps container safely, away from children and pets.

If you are new to using GLP-1-based treatments such as semaglutide, speak with your doctor to learn the proper technique of administering the injection. They can walk you through the process and answer any questions about your medication.

Am I suitable for Ozempic and other weight loss injections?

You may be suitable for Ozempic (semaglutide) or other prescription weight loss injections like tirzepatide or liraglutide if you have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher, or a BMI of 27 kg/m² with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes. 

However, it is widely recognised that the World Health Organisation (WHO) definition of overweight and obesity for individuals of Asian ethnicity starts at a lower BMI level of 23 kg/m2 and 25 kg/m2, respectively. It is important to work with your doctors to understand your specific health needs and find the most suitable treatment. 

In general, these treatments are intended for individuals who are unable to achieve significant weight loss through lifestyle changes alone. However, they are not recommended for everyone. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a history of certain thyroid conditions or pancreatitis, are generally not suitable. 

Your doctor will assess your medical history, current health, and treatment goals before prescribing these injections and will provide ongoing monitoring to ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you.

Where can I buy Ozempic and other weight loss injections in Singapore?

Ozempic and other weight loss injections like tirzepatide and liraglutide are available in Singapore through specialist public or private medical clinics like LG Endocrinology. These medications are prescription-only and cannot be purchased over the counter. You must first consult a doctor who will assess your suitability based on your health profile and treatment goals.

While Ozempic is officially approved by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for managing type 2 diabetes, doctors in Singapore may prescribe it off-label for weight management in eligible individuals. Other GLP-1 medications, including those specifically approved for weight loss, are also available through specialist public or private clinics.

When should I see an endocrinologist?

You should consider seeing an endocrinologist if you are struggling with weight loss despite lifestyle changes, or if you suspect your weight issues may be linked to a hormonal imbalance. Obesity is not just a matter of diet, as it can be influenced by conditions such as hypothyroidism, sindrom ovarium polikistik (PCOS), insulin resistance, or Sindrom Cushing.

If you’re facing challenges with weight management or have been diagnosed with a related condition, buat janji temu with Dr Linsey to get the medical insight and support you need for long-term health.

Written by Dr Linsey Gani

Dr Linsey profile picture

Dokter Linsey Gani is an endocrinologist experienced in weight management and metabolic health. She completed her residency in Melbourne, Australia and is a fellow of the Royal Australian College of Physicians and the Academy of Medicine, Singapore.