PBAC to Review GLP-1 Prescribing Rules for Type 2 Diabetes
27 Jul 2026
The review will examine whether the prescribing restrictions introduced in June 2024 have helped ensure PBS-funded GLP-1 medicines are being used by the patients they were intended to treat. These medicines, including Ozempic (semaglutide) and Trulicity (dulaglutide), are currently subsidised only for eligible people with type 2 diabetes.
Under the current PBS rules, patients must have a clinical reason why SGLT2 inhibitors are unsuitable or have not provided adequate blood glucose control before they can access a subsidised GLP-1 medicine. Since June 2024, GPs have also needed to obtain telephone or electronic authority before starting new PBS prescriptions.
Despite these tighter requirements, PBS prescribing of GLP-1 medicines has continued to increase. Health experts say the review will assess whether current prescribing remains aligned with clinical guidelines while considering the growing cost of these medicines within the PBS.
The review will also consider the role of GLP-1 medicines alongside other diabetes treatments. Experts continue to emphasise personalised care, lifestyle changes, and appropriate use of evidence-based therapies to help people manage type 2 diabetes.
GLP-1 medicines are not currently subsidised through the PBS for weight management, although a recommendation has previously been made to list Wegovy (semaglutide) for some people with obesity and cardiovascular disease. A PBS listing has not yet been introduced.
PBAC to Review GLP-1 Prescribing Rules for Type 2 Diabetes
Source: RACGP newsGP