Initiators of Semaglutide in General Practice in New South Wales, 2020–2023: A Retrospective Cohort Study

AIM: We aimed to analyse trends and demographic and clinical profiles in initial prescriptions of semaglutide ("Ozempic") by general practitioners in New South Wales between 2020 and 2023. METHOD: This retrospective cohort study used electronic medical records from the New South Wales Health Lumos program, covering 680 general practices from January 2020 to November 2023. Individuals aged ≥18 years with a first general practice prescription for semaglutide ("initiators") were included. Counts and proportions of semaglutide initiators by year, sex, age, socioeconomic status, body mass index, and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) status were compared over time. RESULTS: . CONCLUSIONS: The use of semaglutide in Australia is expanding rapidly, particularly among individuals without T2DM. Patterns in general practice prescribing of semaglutide differ by sex, T2DM status, and socioeconomic factors, raising important questions about equitable access. These trends underscore the need for coordinated policy responses to support fair and sustainable use as demand continues to grow.