Buying GLP-1 medicines in New Zealand: Medsafe rules and travel

Check Medsafe product information first

Use Medsafe to find the medicine and its local product information. An overseas product with the same ingredient does not prove a New Zealand presentation is approved or on sale. Ask your clinician to name the exact product, formulation and strength. If they suggest an unapproved medicine, ask for a clear account of the lawful access pathway and the clinical reasons for the choice.

Posted prescription medicines need a New Zealand prescriber

Medsafe says prescription medicines sent from overseas for personal use need a proper justification and prescriber authorisation. Its guidance describes a New Zealand authorised prescriber being involved before release. A foreign prescription and a paid online order do not guarantee entry. Sort out the requirements before you buy, including how you will supply evidence and what happens if border staff stop the parcel.

Follow the current traveller guidance

Read Medsafe's travel section for your medicine, quantity and circumstances, and answer the current New Zealand arrival declaration questions. Keep the medicine in identifiable packaging and carry proof of your prescription. Medicine for your own treatment and supply for someone else are treated differently. A general travel allowance gives no permission to import for others or to bring more than the conditions allow.

Ask about public funding as its own question

Ask whether your prescription is publicly funded under New Zealand arrangements or paid privately. Approval of a product does not mean public funding. Get the full cost of medicine, appointments and dispensing, and agree a plan for any supply gap. If you are heading to remote areas, settle storage, replacement supply and clinical contact before you leave a main centre.

Check the product with Medsafe before you buy

Confirm the exact product and its approved use with Medsafe before you buy Mounjaro, Wegovy injection, Wegovy tablets or Foundayo. Approval, clinical suitability, funding, stock and import permission each need a separate check.

• Ask a New Zealand clinician which product suits you and whether your treatment history is enough for them to assess you.
• Ask for the total price, with consultations, dispensing and delivery included, before you agree to ongoing treatment.
• Hold on to the packaging, the prescription and the dispensing record. Ask a pharmacist to check any damaged parcel or medicine with an unclear storage history before use.