GLP-1 Medications: Telehealth Guidelines in Singapore

GLP-1 medications like Saxenda and Rybelsus are transforming weight management in Singapore, offering effective solutions for individuals struggling with obesity or related conditions. These treatments, originally developed for diabetes, are now accessible through MOH-approved telehealth platforms. Here's what you need to know:

Saxenda is the only GLP-1 drug officially approved for weight loss in Singapore, while Rybelsus is prescribed off-label as a non-injectable option.
Telehealth platforms, such as Trimly, allow patients to consult licensed doctors via video, receive prescriptions, and have medications delivered directly to their homes.
To qualify, individuals must meet BMI thresholds (≥27.5, or ≥23 with weight-related conditions) and undergo a thorough medical assessment.
Monthly costs for treatment typically range from S$350 to S$650, depending on the medication and dosage.

Singapore's regulations ensure these treatments are safe, with strict licensing requirements for telehealth providers and clear consultation standards. Patients can expect ongoing medical supervision, including follow-ups to monitor progress and manage side effects. Always choose licensed platforms to avoid counterfeit drugs or improper care.

Singapore's Regulations for Prescribing GLP-1 Medications via Telehealth

GLP-1 Telehealth Prescription Process in Singapore: 5-Step Patient Journey

Singapore has set clear rules for prescribing GLP-1 medications through telehealth, ensuring these services meet the same standards as traditional clinics. These regulations, established by the Ministry of Health (MOH), aim to safeguard patients while making weight management treatments more accessible.

MOH Guidelines for Telehealth Services

Telehealth platforms offering GLP-1 prescriptions must hold a valid MOH Healthcare Services Act (HCSA) licence. This ensures they meet stringent requirements for clinical governance, medical oversight, and secure medication supply chains. Additionally, only fully registered and licensed doctors under the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) are authorised to prescribe GLP-1 medications via telehealth.

According to the National Telemedicine Guidelines (NTG), consultations must be conducted through two-way audiovisual communication, allowing both doctor and patient to see and hear each other. Audio-only calls are not acceptable for issuing new GLP-1 prescriptions. Providers must also comply with Singapore's Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), ensuring all medical records are encrypted and securely stored. Before starting treatment, doctors must obtain informed consent by explaining the medication's purpose, potential benefits, common side effects (like nausea or diarrhoea), and any serious risks.

These measures create a secure and evidence-based framework for prescribing GLP-1 medications.

Steps for Prescribing GLP-1 Medications

The prescription process for GLP-1 medications is designed with patient safety and efficiency in mind. Patients begin by completing an online intake form, which collects details such as demographics, medical history, current medications, allergies, and weight-related information. This is followed by a video teleconsultation with a licensed doctor. During the session, the doctor verifies the patient’s identity, evaluates their BMI, reviews their medical history and any existing conditions, and discusses prior weight-loss efforts. The consultation also helps identify whether an in-person evaluation might be necessary. Completing the intake form does not guarantee a prescription, as doctors retain full discretion over treatment decisions.

In some cases, additional tests may be required before proceeding. If the doctor decides GLP-1 treatment is suitable, they will explain the expected outcomes, potential side effects, long-term therapy considerations, and associated costs. Prescriptions are sent electronically to a licensed pharmacy, where medications - such as Saxenda injection pens or Rybelsus tablets - are prepared by qualified pharmacists and delivered using temperature-controlled logistics.

Follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring side effects, adjusting dosages, and ensuring the treatment remains appropriate. MOH-approved platforms, such as Trimly, stress that teleconsultations do not guarantee a prescription; doctors maintain full clinical accountability for their decisions.

Patient Eligibility and Consultation Standards

Not all requests for GLP-1 medications result in a prescription; in fact, one in five applications are denied due to incomplete information or failure to meet the necessary criteria.

Who Qualifies for GLP-1 Medications

In Singapore, doctors use BMI thresholds specifically adjusted for Asian populations to determine eligibility. To qualify, a person must have a BMI over 27.5, or over 23 if they have weight-related conditions like type 2 diabetes or hypertension. Additionally, candidates are typically those who have previously tried diet and exercise without achieving meaningful weight loss.

Eligibility goes beyond BMI. Doctors examine a patient's medical history to ensure the treatment is safe. Blood tests are often required to assess liver and kidney function, as these organs play a role in processing GLP-1 medications. Gastrointestinal health is another key consideration, given that 40–60% of patients experience side effects like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea at higher doses aimed at weight loss. Pregnant women are excluded based on WHO guidelines, and individuals seeking minor, cosmetic weight loss without obesity do not qualify. Dr. Lee Phong Ching from Singapore General Hospital emphasises that these medications are meant strictly for patients with a genuine medical need.

Teleconsultation Requirements

After confirming eligibility, the consultation process ensures the treatment is suitable and that patients fully understand it. Singapore regulations require two-way audiovisual consultations, enabling clear communication between doctors and patients.

During these consultations, doctors cover essential topics such as the effectiveness of the medication for weight loss, the importance of maintaining diet and exercise, potential side effects, and the risks of off-label use (e.g., using Rybelsus, approved for diabetes, for weight management). Providers approved by the Ministry of Health, such as Trimly, conduct these video consultations. These sessions involve assessing BMI, reviewing medical history, and discussing treatment options, ensuring patient safety remains the top priority.

GLP-1 Medications Approved for Weight Loss in Singapore

In Singapore, only two of the eight approved GLP-1 drugs - Wegovy and Saxenda - are specifically authorised for weight loss. The other six are approved for managing type 2 diabetes but may also be prescribed off-label for weight management.

Wegovy and Saxenda for Weight Loss

Wegovy

Saxenda (liraglutide) is a daily injectable that helps reduce appetite and enhances feelings of fullness. It’s available through MOH-approved telehealth platforms such as Trimly, making it accessible for those seeking weight loss solutions.

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg), on the other hand, demonstrated an impressive 15% average weight loss in the 68-week STEP 1 trial - far surpassing the 2–3% weight loss achieved with lifestyle changes alone. However, due to supply shortages, Wegovy is currently unavailable in Singapore.

Rybelsus and Other GLP-1 Options

Rybelsus

For those looking to avoid injections, there are oral alternatives. Rybelsus (oral semaglutide) is a once-daily pill approved for type 2 diabetes but is often prescribed off-label for weight loss. Patients frequently prefer Rybelsus as it eliminates the need for injections while effectively curbing appetite and aiding in weight reduction.

Other GLP-1 medications approved for diabetes management are also considered for off-label use in weight loss. Telehealth platforms like Trimly provide consultations to discuss these options, ensuring patients are well-informed about the benefits and risks of off-label prescribing. Monthly costs for GLP-1 treatment plans typically range from S$350 to S$650, depending on the medication, dosage, and individual treatment plan.

Clinical Evidence on GLP-1 Medications

How Effective Are GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss

Clinical trials have shown that GLP-1 medications are significantly more effective for weight loss than relying solely on lifestyle changes. For instance, the 68-week STEP 1 trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2021, highlighted that adults with obesity who used Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) alongside lifestyle changes achieved an average weight loss of 15%. In comparison, the control group, which followed only diet and exercise plans, managed just a 2–3% reduction. Similarly, the SCALE trials demonstrated that Saxenda (liraglutide 3.0 mg) led to a 5–10% reduction in body weight over 56 weeks.

According to WHO guidelines, around 70–75% of participants using semaglutide 2.4 mg achieved at least a 10% weight loss, while about 50% of those on liraglutide saw a minimum 5% reduction. In contrast, placebo groups achieved only 20–30% and roughly 20% for the same benchmarks, respectively.

These results align with the drug's mechanism of action, which typically allows patients to notice changes within 4–8 weeks. On average, 5–10% weight loss is achieved within 3–6 months, with the potential for up to 15% loss over 12–18 months. Such outcomes make these medications a promising option for weight management, though their safety profile warrants close examination.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Gastrointestinal side effects are the most frequently reported issues. A senior consultant gastroenterologist at Singapore General Hospital estimates that 40–60% of patients experience mild-to-moderate symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort, particularly during the dose escalation phase. The use of higher doses for weight loss contributes to the increased likelihood of these side effects. However, most symptoms improve over time with measures like gradual dose titration, staying hydrated, and using anti-nausea medication. Severe side effects are rare, with fewer than 5% of patients discontinuing treatment due to such issues.

Ongoing medical supervision is critical during treatment. Physicians monitor for gastrointestinal problems, potential gallbladder complications, and the rare risk of pancreatitis. Baseline blood tests are typically conducted to assess liver and kidney function and rule out contraindications before starting therapy. Singaporean specialists also stress that GLP-1 medications are not intended for cosmetic weight loss. Instead, they should be prescribed for patients with obesity or weight-related health conditions under proper medical guidance.

Compliance and Best Practices for Telehealth Platforms

Choosing MOH-Approved Telehealth Providers

When looking for GLP-1 medications for weight loss in Singapore, it's crucial to choose a telehealth provider approved by the Ministry of Health (MOH). These providers must adhere to the Healthcare Services Act (HCSA) and the National Telemedicine Guidelines (NTG). These regulations ensure proper patient selection, clear accountability, and meticulous documentation. Only doctors registered with the Singapore Medical Council are authorised to prescribe these medications through compliant platforms.

From November 2023 to August 2024, one prominent MOH-approved telehealth platform rejected about 20% of GLP-1 prescription requests. These denials were due to incomplete medical information or patients not meeting the eligibility criteria. This highlights that ethical platforms don't simply approve every request. A teleconsultation doesn’t guarantee a prescription - doctors evaluate factors like BMI, medical history, comorbidities, and contraindications before making a decision.

Trimly, an MOH-approved telehealth clinic, exemplifies these standards. It employs Singapore-registered doctors who carefully review patients’ health and treatment goals. The platform operates entirely online, adhering to strict regulatory guidelines, and delivers medication directly to patients’ homes. When choosing a provider, ensure they are MOH-licensed and use two-way audiovisual communication during consultations, as required by law.

Steer clear of platforms that offer quick-fix weight-loss solutions, discount codes, or instalment payment plans for GLP-1 medications. MOH and HSA regulations strictly prohibit advertising prescription-only drugs in any media, including websites and social platforms. Providers can share factual details but must avoid promotional pricing or direct encouragement to use these medications. Using only MOH-approved sources helps protect against counterfeit drugs.

Once you've chosen a compliant provider, the focus should shift to receiving care tailored to your needs.

Patient-Centred Care Standards

High-quality telehealth platforms do more than just dispense medication - they prioritise personalised treatment plans crafted by licensed doctors. These plans involve adjusting medication doses based on individual progress and managing any side effects. For example, Trimly offers free and unlimited follow-ups with doctors, ensuring patients receive continuous support and monitoring at no extra cost. This approach aligns with WHO recommendations, which advocate for GLP-1 use as part of long-term, person-centred care integrated into broader obesity management strategies rather than as a standalone solution.

The best programmes take a multi-disciplinary approach to weight management, combining medication with guidance on diet, exercise, behaviour changes, and the safe use of treatments. This holistic approach ensures that care is comprehensive and not limited to just prescribing medication.

Conclusion

GLP-1 medications can aid in weight loss when prescribed by MOH-approved telehealth providers who conduct thorough video consultations and medical assessments.

Currently, only Saxenda and Wegovy (depending on availability) are approved for weight loss in Singapore. In some cases, off-label use of options like Rybelsus may be considered if deemed clinically appropriate. For the best results, these medications should be paired with lifestyle adjustments, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and behavioural support, as part of a comprehensive, long-term weight management plan.

It's important to avoid purchasing these medications from unverified online sellers to reduce the risk of counterfeit drugs and missed medical screenings. Reputable telehealth providers may refuse to prescribe these medications if patients fail to meet clinical criteria. For instance, one local platform rejected approximately 20% of GLP-1 requests between November 2023 and August 2024 due to incomplete information or ineligibility.

Trimly, an MOH-approved telehealth provider, connects patients with Singapore-registered doctors for personalised treatment and offers free unlimited follow-ups. Treatment plans start at S$350 per month.

FAQs

Who is eligible for GLP-1 medications in Singapore?

In Singapore, the decision to prescribe GLP-1 medications rests with a licensed doctor. During a consultation, the doctor evaluates your overall health, medical history, and weight loss objectives. This personalised assessment helps determine if the medication is a good fit for your needs while prioritising your safety.

How does telehealth ensure safe and effective use of GLP-1 medications in Singapore?

Telehealth plays a key role in ensuring that GLP-1 medications are used safely and effectively. Licensed doctors carefully review your medical history, assess whether the treatment is suitable for you, and create personalised treatment plans - all in accordance with Singapore's Ministry of Health (MOH) regulations.

With regular virtual follow-ups, doctors can keep track of your progress, address any side effects, and make necessary adjustments to your dosage. This approach not only prioritises your safety but also offers the convenience of online consultations and medication delivery.

What happens during a teleconsultation for GLP-1 medications in Singapore?

During a teleconsultation for GLP-1 medications, the doctor will go over your medical history, talk about your weight management goals, and determine if the medication is a good fit for you. They'll tailor a treatment plan to suit your needs, which might include either oral or injectable GLP-1 options.

If the doctor prescribes the medication, it will be delivered straight to your doorstep. The whole process happens securely online, offering both convenience and privacy while ensuring you receive professional, doctor-led care.