Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is now available in New Zealand

Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is now available in New Zealand by prescription. It is approved for use in adults and must be prescribed by a New Zealand registered medical practitioner.

Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, a dual GLP 1 and GIP receptor agonist used in metabolic medicine. Its availability in New Zealand expands evidence based options for medical weight management and type 2 diabetes care.

At rfynd in New Zealand, Mounjaro prescribing is provided by Dr Nicole Wilde, Specialist in Obesity Medicine, with integrated nutrition therapy delivered by dietitian Kylie Russell. Treatment is medically supervised and individualised.

What is Mounjaro and what is tirzepatide

Mounjaro is the brand name.
Tirzepatide is the active pharmaceutical ingredient.

Tirzepatide is a once weekly injectable medication that activates both GLP 1 and GIP receptors. These receptors regulate appetite, satiety, insulin secretion and glucose metabolism.

By targeting both pathways, tirzepatide can:

• Reduce appetite and food intake
• Improve glycaemic control
• Support clinically significant weight reduction
• Improve cardiometabolic markers

International clinical trials have demonstrated substantial reductions in body weight in adults with obesity and in those with type 2 diabetes. Outcomes depend on dose, duration of treatment, adherence and concurrent lifestyle modification.

Is Mounjaro available in New Zealand?

Yes. Mounjaro is available in New Zealand through regulated pharmacies with a valid prescription.

It is important to distinguish between regulatory approval and public funding. Mounjaro is approved for prescribing in New Zealand. It is not currently publicly funded for most patients and is generally privately purchased.

Supply and pricing may vary by pharmacy and dose. Monthly cost increases as the dose escalates.

Patients seeking Mounjaro in New Zealand should ensure it is prescribed by a registered doctor and dispensed through a legitimate pharmacy.

Who may be considered for tirzepatide treatment

Tirzepatide may be considered in adults who meet criteria for medical weight management or who require additional glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes.

Suitability depends on:

• Body mass index and weight related comorbidities
• Previous response to structured lifestyle therapy
• Medication interactions
• Contraindications and medical history
• Individual risk profile

Not all individuals are appropriate candidates.

At rfynd, Dr Nicole Wilde conducts a comprehensive obesity medicine assessment before prescribing Mounjaro. Ongoing follow up includes dose titration, metabolic monitoring and side effect management.

The role of dietitian support during Mounjaro treatment

Appetite suppression alters eating patterns. Without structured guidance, patients may reduce protein intake, lose lean muscle mass or experience gastrointestinal symptoms.

Dietitian Kylie Russell provides targeted nutrition support during Mounjaro therapy. This includes:

• Establishing protein targets to preserve lean mass
• Managing nausea, reflux and constipation
• Supporting hydration and electrolyte balance
• Structuring meals during reduced appetite
• Developing sustainable long term habits

Medication influences appetite. Nutrition determines body composition and long term maintenance.

Safety considerations with tirzepatide

The most common side effects of tirzepatide are gastrointestinal, particularly during dose escalation. These may include nausea, constipation, diarrhoea or reflux.

Gradual titration and dietary modification improve tolerance.

Tirzepatide is a prescription only medicine. It requires individual assessment and monitoring. Treatment decisions involve discussion of benefits, risks, alternatives and long term planning.

Medication should only be obtained through regulated New Zealand supply channels.

Medical weight management in New Zealand

Mounjaro represents an advancement in pharmacological treatment for obesity and metabolic disease in New Zealand. It is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive care model that includes medical oversight, nutrition therapy and behavioural intervention.

At rfynd, the objective is improved metabolic health, reduction in long term disease risk and sustainable change.

Individuals considering Mounjaro in New Zealand can seek a specialist consultation to determine whether tirzepatide is appropriate for their clinical circumstances.

Explore whether Mounjaro is appropriate for you

Tirzepatide requires individual medical assessment. If you are considering medical weight management, you can book a consultation with Dr Nicole Wilde, Specialist in Obesity Medicine, and receive integrated nutrition support from dietitian Kylie Russell.

Book a consultation.

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Important information

This article provides general educational information. It does not replace personalised medical advice. Mounjaro and tirzepatide require assessment by a qualified health professional prior to prescribing.

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A recent Radio New Zealand (RNZ) investigation has revealed that fake “New Zealand doctors” are promoting GLP-1 weight-loss products online, and many of these “doctors” simply don’t exist. These scams are not only misleading but could also put your health at risk. Read the full RNZ article here ›

As an evidence-based medical clinic, rfynd Weight Loss is deeply concerned about this growing trend. We want to raise awareness of these fake doctor scams and highlight the importance of seeking help from qualified, specialist clinicians such as Dr Nicole Wilde, our board-certified Obesity Medicine Specialist.

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What the RNZ investigation found:

RNZ uncovered multiple social media accounts claiming to be “New Zealand doctors” promoting GLP-1 medications for rapid weight loss. These pages often:

• Use fake names and stock photos of “doctors”
• Claim false Medsafe approval
• Offer “oral GLP-1 drops” or “cheap Wegovy alternatives” for as little as $50
• Are managed from overseas and disappear once payments are made

RNZ confirmed that none of the supposed doctors appear on the Medical Council of New Zealand register — meaning they’re not real medical professionals. The products they promote are not approved by Medsafe and may contain unsafe or unknown ingredients.

As Dr Nicole Wilde told RNZ, “Anyone promoting one weight-loss treatment is oversimplifying a complex medical condition.” Oversimplification not only misleads consumers but can also cause real harm.

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Why credentials matter: who is Dr Nicole Wilde?

Dr Nicole Wilde is a board-certified physician specialising in Obesity Medicine and part of the rfynd Weight Loss medical team. She provides science-based, personalised treatment for people seeking safe, sustainable weight loss.

Her credentials mean she’s qualified to prescribe approved medications such as Saxenda and Wegovy under New Zealand’s Medsafe regulations, ensuring safety, monitoring, and follow-up care.

Dr Wilde’s approach is comprehensive, addressing hormones, metabolism, mental health, nutrition, and lifestyle rather than pushing a single “miracle” product.

At rfynd, every treatment plan is clinically supervised, medically safe, and aligned with the latest obesity-medicine research.

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How to check if a doctor or product is legitimate in New Zealand:

Before buying or starting any weight-loss medication, take these steps:

1. Check the doctor’s registration
Visit the Medical Council of New Zealand register. If the doctor’s name isn’t listed, don’t trust the claim.

2. Search the Medsafe database
Only purchase products listed on the Medsafe approved medicines register.

3. Be sceptical of “too good to be true” offers
Legitimate GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Saxenda are prescription-only. If you can “buy them online” without seeing a doctor — it’s not legitimate.

4. Avoid overseas websites and social media ads
Many fake weight-loss “clinics” hide their location or use proxy servers outside New Zealand.

5. Get medical guidance from a qualified obesity medicine doctor
A trained physician like Dr Nicole Wilde will ensure the treatment is safe, effective, and suited to your unique health needs.

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Why choose rfynd Weight Loss?

At rfynd, we combine medical expertise with genuine support. Our multidisciplinary team — including doctors, dietitians, health coaches, nurses and exercise physiologists — helps patients across New Zealand access safe, proven weight-loss treatments.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• New Zealand-registered medical professionals
  All rfynd clinicians are qualified and registered with relevant NZ health authorities.
• Evidence-based, personalised plans
  No gimmicks or “miracle drops” — only clinically validated treatments.
• Access to approved GLP-1 medications
  We prescribe only Medsafe-approved products like Wegovy and Saxenda when clinically appropriate.
• Ongoing care and monitoring
  Regular check-ins, lifestyle support, and professional guidance ensure long-term success.
• National reach
  Consultations are available online across New Zealand, making expert care accessible wherever you live.

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If you’re considering GLP-1 weight-loss medication or simply want to understand your options, book a consultation with Dr Nicole Wilde and the rfynd Weight Loss team today.

Book your consultation with Dr Nicole Wilde ›

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Fatty liver disease, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)—is now one of the most common liver conditions globally. Affecting up to 1 in 3 adults in New Zealand, it’s closely linked to overweight and obesity, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance.

But there’s promising news: GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy (semaglutide), originally developed for diabetes and weight loss, are now showing powerful benefits for people with fatty liver disease.

Let’s look at how they work and what the latest research says.

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What Is NAFLD and Why Does It Matter?

NAFLD occurs when excess fat builds up in liver cells, not caused by alcohol. Over time, this fat can lead to inflammation (NASH), fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.

Unfortunately this a silent epidemic—often with no symptoms until the damage is severe.

Risk factors include:

• Obesity
• Insulin resistance
• Type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol and triglycerides

There is currently no approved medication specifically for NAFLD or NASH. The mainstay of treatment has been lifestyle changes like weight loss and exercise. But maintaining long-term weight loss can be incredibly challenging.

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Enter: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are medications that:

• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Slow gastric emptying
• Reduce appetite
• Lead to substantial weight loss

Wegovy (semaglutide) is one of the most potent GLP-1s, approved for chronic weight management in New Zealand. But its benefits extend beyond weight loss.

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What the Research Says: GLP-1s and Liver Health

Here are some key studies and findings that show how GLP-1s can improve fatty liver disease:

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1. Semaglutide Improves NASH Histology

In a randomised controlled trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine (2021), researchers gave semaglutide to patients with biopsy-proven NASH.

✅ 59% of patients had NASH resolution with no worsening of fibrosis—compared to just 17% on placebo.

📖 Reference: Newsome PN et al. (NEJM, 2021) [1].

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2. Weight Loss Drives Liver Fat Reduction

GLP-1s induce 10–15% total body weight loss in many patients.

Even a 5–10% weight reduction is enough to significantly improve liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis [2].

Semaglutide helps people reach these targets more reliably than diet and exercise alone.

📖 Reference: Armstrong MJ et al., The Lancet, 2016 [2].

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3. Reduces Liver Fat on Imaging

A 2020 study in The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology found that semaglutide significantly reduced liver fat content on MRI-based imaging, even in non-diabetic individuals with NAFLD.

📖 Reference: Flint A et al., Lancet Gastroenterol Hepatol, 2020 [3].

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4. Improves Cardiometabolic Risk Factors

GLP-1s don’t just help the liver—they also improve:

• Blood sugar control
• Blood pressure
• Lipids (LDL, triglycerides)

These improvements reduce the overall cardiovascular risk in people with NAFLD, which is a leading cause of death in this population.

📖 Reference: Marso SP et al., NEJM, 2016 (LEADER trial) [4].

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5. Promising Real-World Data

Recent real-world cohort studies have shown that people with NAFLD on GLP-1 therapy experience reductions in liver enzymes (ALT, AST), indicating better liver function over time.

📖 Reference: Newsome PN et al., J Hepatol, 2021 [5].

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Are GLP-1s Right for You?

If you have fatty liver disease GLP-1s like Wegovy could offer a dual benefit:

✔️ Sustained weight loss

✔️ Improvement in liver health

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At rfynd, we offer a medically supported GLP-1 weight loss program that includes:

• Prescription access (Wegovy, Saxenda, or similar)
• Specialist clinician support
• Nutrition and lifestyle coaching
• Optional liver health monitoring

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Final Thoughts to consider

Fatty liver disease is more common—and more serious—than many people realise. Fortunately, science is catching up. GLP-1 medications like Wegovy are emerging as powerful tools, not just for weight loss but for protecting your liver and reducing long-term health risks.

Want to explore if Wegovy is right for your liver health journey?

👉 Book a consultation with one of our rfynd medical team today

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What About Bariatric Surgery for Fatty Liver Disease?

While medications like Wegovy are powerful tools for weight loss and liver health, for some people—particularly those with a BMI >30 —metabolic (bariatric) surgery may offer the most dramatic and lasting improvement in fatty liver disease.

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Here’s what the evidence shows:

1. High Rates of NASH Resolution and Fibrosis Improvemen

In one of the largest long-term studies published in Gastroenterology (2015), researchers followed 180 patients with biopsy-proven NASH who underwent bariatric surgery.

✔️ 85% achieved NASH resolution

✔️ 34% had fibrosis regression

📖 Reference: Lassailly G et al., Gastroenterology, 2015 [6].

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2. Massive Reductions in Liver Fat and Inflammation

A meta-analysis published in Obesity Surgery (2020) reviewed 32 studies and found bariatric surgery resulted in:

• 91.6% reduction in steatosis
• 81.3% resolution of NASH
• 65.5% improvement in fibrosis

📖 Reference: Lee Y et al., Obes Surg, 2020 [7].

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3. Liver Function Markers Improve Quickly

Within 6–12 months of surgery, liver enzymes (ALT, AST) typically fall to normal or near-normal levels. Improvements often occur before full weight loss is achieved, suggesting mechanisms beyond just fat loss—such as improved insulin sensitivity and gut hormone regulation.📖 Reference: Mathurin P et al., Journal of Hepatology, 2009 [8].

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‍4. Lowers Risk of Cirrhosis and Liver-Related Death

A large retrospective study from JAMA (2021) showed that bariatric surgery in patients with obesity and NAFLD was associated with:

• 48% reduced risk of developing advanced liver disease
• 70% reduction in liver-related mortality

📖 Reference: Aminian A et al., JAMA, 2021 [9].

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5. Reduces Overall Cardiometabolic Risk and Mortality

Since NAFLD is a multi-system disease, patients benefit not only from improved liver health but also:

• Better blood sugar control
• Improved lipid profile
• Lower cardiovascular risk and cancer risk
  

📖 Reference: Sjöström L et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 2007 [10].

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Surgery vs. Medication: Complementary Options

While GLP-1s and bariatric surgery both improve fatty liver disease, the choice depends on the individual:

• GLP-1s are ideal for those seeking non-invasive therapy or who aren’t surgical candidates.
• Bariatric surgery offers a more pronounced and durable option—especially for those with a BMI>30.

At rfynd, we work with you to explore both options, offering:

• GLP-1 medical weight loss programs
• Bariatric surgery with trusted surgeons
• Ongoing liver monitoring and health coaching

Want to explore if bariatric surgery is right for your liver health journey?

👉 Book a consultation with one of our rfynd surgeons today.

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