When it comes to shedding kilos and keeping them off, many people wonder: do weight loss drugs work? In this article, we explore this timely question, inspired by insights from Stephanie Rumble, a seasoned accountability coach and health educator based in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Stephanie shares her perspective on the growing popularity of weight loss supplements, prescription medications, and the importance of behaviour change for sustainable results. This discussion aims to help you make informed choices about your health, while recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

How Do Medications for Weight Loss Actually Work?

The rise of medications for weight loss has sparked interest worldwide. These treatments, including well-known names like Ozempic and Saxenda, are designed to support individuals struggling with obesity or stubborn weight issues.

Most of these drugs belong to a class called GLP-1 medication (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists). They work by influencing the body’s natural hormones to:

Suppress appetite (appetite suppression)
Enhance feelings of fullness
Stabilise blood sugar levels

An educational graphic explaining the mechanisms of weight loss medications, featuring a woman in activewear with digestive system illustration, GLP-1 medication, fruits, vegetables, sneakers, and a water bottle. Key points highlight appetite suppression, enhanced fullness, and blood sugar stabilisation. — Medications like GLP-1s help manage hunger, but lifestyle changes remain key.

The result? Less hunger and fewer cravings, which can make it easier to stick to healthier eating patterns. Ozempic and similar treatments can help some people lose up to 10–20% of their body weight when combined with lifestyle changes. However, these medications aren't miracle cures. They work best when used as part of a broader, health-focused plan.

For those looking to take a holistic approach to wellbeing alongside medical support, Bright Red's wellbeing education workshops offer valuable tools to manage stress, build resilience, and strengthen mindset.

The Truth About Effective Weight Loss Pills and Injections

While effective weight loss pills and injections can assist in reducing weight, Stephanie emphasises that they are not magic bullets. Real success requires commitment to lasting habit changes, including:

Nutritious eating
Regular physical activity
Managing stress and sleep

Medications may provide a helpful boost, but without the groundwork of healthier habits, results often don't stick. Stephanie also highlights the importance of mindset—helping clients shift their thinking and daily behaviours to create sustainable progress. Even with the best fat burner, long-term success is about more than what you take; it’s about what you do.

“No pill can fix emotional eating. That’s where the real work begins.” ~ Stephanie Rumble

Available Drugs for Obesity in New Zealand

In New Zealand, options for drugs for obesity include:

Saxenda (most commonly used)
Contrave
Xenical
Phentermine

Some medications like Ozempic are available but only approved for type 2 diabetes, not for weight loss.

Access to these medications is regulated and usually requires a prescription. Costs can range from NZD $100 to $500 per month, and eligibility is typically tied to having a BMI over 27, sometimes alongside weight-related health conditions such as high blood pressure or pre-diabetes.

It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss whether these treatments are appropriate for your individual situation. Medications can be useful tools, but they must be combined with a commitment to lasting lifestyle changes.

The Role of Appetite Suppression in Weight Loss

Many medications focus on appetite suppression, which can be a game-changer for those who constantly feel hungry or struggle with portion control. By reducing physical hunger signals, these treatments aim to help people manage their eating more effectively.

However, as Stephanie explains, they don't address emotional eating—a key factor behind many weight struggles. If food is your default response to stress, tiredness, or emotions, no pill will solve the problem alone. This is where Bright Red's personalised styling services can complement your journey by helping you feel good in your own skin as your body and confidence evolve.

Combining medication with coaching, habit tracking, and emotional awareness can significantly improve outcomes, leading to genuine, long-lasting transformation.

Fat Burners and Supplements: Do Fat Burner Supplements Work?

Many people explore fat burner supplements in the hope of accelerating weight loss. While some may temporarily boost metabolism or energy, most lack strong evidence for long-term effectiveness.

Overweight man sitting on a couch drinking beer, contrasted with a display of colorful weight loss supplements, pills, and a measuring tape on a table. — Fat burner supplements promise quick fixes, but lasting weight loss comes from consistent habits—balanced nutrition, movement, and mindset matter most.

Stephanie encourages a focus on sustainable habits: consistent movement, balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and emotional resilience. Supplements, when used, should always complement—not replace—healthy living.

Over the Counter Solutions: Do Over the Counter Slimming Pills Help?

Some people turn to over the counter slimming pills for quick fixes. These products typically:

Claim to boost metabolism or reduce fat absorption
Vary widely in effectiveness and safety

While some natural appetite suppressant options may offer mild support, Stephanie cautions that without addressing the underlying behaviours and emotions tied to eating, results are unlikely to last.

Moreover, the regulatory oversight of such products can be inconsistent, meaning consumers need to be cautious about what they take. It is always wise to consult a professional before starting any new supplement or pill.

Seeking Real Weight Loss Help: Beyond Pills and Injections

For those asking, "help me lose weight," Stephanie highlights that true transformation doesn’t come from pills alone. It comes from understanding the full picture:

Identifying emotional triggers
Building healthier routines
Staying consistent through both progress and setbacks

Stephanie’s accountability coaching provides personalised guidance, helping people create mental and behavioural shifts that stick. She supports clients in making realistic lifestyle changes that fit into their daily lives—without extreme diets or punishing exercise regimes.

“It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being consistent.” ~ Stephanie Rumble

Key Statistics on Weight Loss Drugs in New Zealand

Understanding the scope of the issue provides valuable context for anyone considering medical support for weight loss:

33.8 % of New Zealand adults—nearly 1.5 million people—were classified as obese in 2023/24 (Ministry of Health – Annual Update of Key Results 2023/24).
46.6 % of adults met the national physical activity guidelines of at least 2.5 hours of moderate activity per week, while 13.6 % did little or none (Ministry of Health – Annual Update of Key Results 2023/24).
A 2025 meta‑analysis shows GLP‑1 medications can deliver an average 15–25 % reduction in body weight after one year of treatment (Diabetes Care, 2025).
In New Zealand, funded GLP‑1 medicines such as dulaglutide and liraglutide are still limited to type 2 diabetes, leaving most people to self‑fund weight‑loss use (Pharmac Medicine Notice – Dulaglutide supply update, 2025).

Infographic showing New Zealand weight loss drug statistics: 34% adult obesity rate, 46% meet activity guidelines, GLP-1 meds aid 15–25% weight loss, but usage is low. — Key statistics reveal that while 34% of New Zealand adults are classified as obese, and GLP-1 medications show promising results, access remains limited due to cost and low awareness.

These figures highlight both the urgency of addressing obesity and the opportunities that exist to support people on their weight loss journey.

Choosing a Women’s Weight Loss Supplement: What to Know

For women specifically, finding a women's weight loss supplement can feel overwhelming in a saturated market. Stephanie recommends:

Choosing evidence-based, reputable solutions
Being cautious of products with extravagant or unproven claims
Keeping the focus on overall wellbeing and self-confidence

For added support, consider exploring Bright Red's resilience training workshops, which focus on building mental strength and flexible thinking—key tools that can complement your weight management journey.

Watch for the Side Effects of Ozempic for Weight Loss and Other Treatments

All medications carry risks. Some common side effects of Ozempic for weight loss and similar drugs include:

Nausea
Bloating
Constipation
Rare complications such as gallbladder issues or mood changes

Likewise, side effects of slimming pills may include digestive discomfort, headaches, or increased heart rate.

It's essential to discuss potential side effects thoroughly with a medical professional. Even natural or fat burner supplements can have unintended consequences, particularly when combined with other medications.

Final Thought: Lasting Change Requires More Than Just Weight Loss Drugs

So—do weight loss drugs work? The answer is: they can assist, but they are only one piece of the puzzle. As Stephanie Rumble emphasises, lasting success comes from shifting mindset, behaviours, and lifestyle.

A motivational weight loss quote from Stephanie Rumble, Founder of Bright Red, appears above a healthy food spread including salmon, avocado, nuts, berries, and vegetables. Stephanie stands to the right, dressed in activewear, smiling confidently. — Stephanie explains the science behind weight regain and why perseverance matters.

Medications, weight loss pills for women, and supplements may provide temporary help, but without foundational change, the results are often fleeting.

To learn more about Stephanie’s expertise in personal development and wellbeing, explore Bright Red's Speaking Services for events, workshops, and tailored support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are weight loss drugs and how do they work?

Weight loss drugs are medications designed to help people manage their weight by suppressing appetite, increasing feelings of fullness, or reducing fat absorption. Many of these drugs, like GLP-1 medications, influence hormones in the body to regulate hunger and eating behaviour.

They are most effective when combined with lifestyle changes such as improved nutrition, regular physical activity, and emotional wellbeing support.

Are weight loss medications available in New Zealand?

Yes, several weight loss medications are available in New Zealand, including Saxenda, Contrave, Xenical, and Phentermine. Some drugs, like Ozempic, are available for diabetes management but are not officially approved for weight loss.

These medications usually require a prescription and eligibility is based on factors like BMI and health conditions.

What are the potential side effects of weight loss drugs?

Common side effects include nausea, bloating, constipation, and in rare cases, gallbladder or mood-related issues. Side effects vary depending on the medication and the individual.

It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to understand the risks and to receive proper medical guidance before starting any treatment.

Do weight loss pills work for emotional eating?

Weight loss pills typically work on physical hunger, not emotional eating. If emotional triggers drive your eating habits, medication alone is unlikely to solve the issue.

Addressing emotional eating often requires mindset work, coaching, or behavioural strategies. Bright Red offers accountability coaching that can help clients build healthier relationships with food.

How much do weight loss drugs cost in New Zealand?

In New Zealand, the cost of weight loss medications generally ranges from NZD $100 to $500 per month. This cost varies depending on the type of medication and whether it is subsidised.

Because of the expense, many people choose to combine medical treatments with lifestyle coaching for a more balanced and sustainable approach.

Are over the counter slimming pills effective?

Some slimming pills, such as Xenical, are available over the counter in New Zealand. These products typically work by reducing the absorption of fat from food, but they come with potential side effects and varying levels of effectiveness.

Stephanie Rumble highlights that lasting weight loss is rarely achieved through pills alone. Without addressing lifestyle habits and emotional eating, the results from any slimming product are likely to be temporary.

Can I stop taking weight loss medication once I reach my goal?

Stopping medication can lead to weight regain if underlying habits haven't been addressed. Many people find that as soon as they stop, hunger and old patterns return.

This is why combining medication with lasting behaviour change—such as through coaching or resilience training—is key to long-term success.

What’s the difference between physical hunger and emotional hunger?

Physical hunger is the body’s biological need for fuel, while emotional hunger is driven by feelings like stress, sadness, or boredom. Emotional eating can lead to overeating and weight gain, regardless of actual physical needs.

Learning to distinguish between the two is an important step in developing healthier eating habits.

How much weight can you lose with GLP-1 medication?

GLP-1 medications, when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, can help some people lose 10% to 15% of their body weight over time. Results vary from person to person.

For the best results, it’s essential to maintain consistent nutrition, exercise, and emotional wellbeing practices.

When should I consider accountability coaching for weight loss?

If you’ve tried multiple diets or medications without lasting success, or if emotional eating continues to sabotage your efforts, accountability coaching can help.

At Bright Red, accountability coaching focuses on mindset, habits, and resilience—supporting real change that goes beyond the scales.