Weight Management Medications in Canada: What\'s Available?

For some Canadians, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient for weight management. Health Canada has approved several medications that, combined with diet and exercise, can support weight loss. Currently approved weight management medications in Canada include orlistat (Xenical), which blocks fat absorption (available Rx and OTC as Alli), naltrexone-bupropion (Contrave), which affects appetite and reward pathways, liraglutide (Saxenda), a GLP-1 receptor agonist administered by daily injection, and semaglutide (Wegovy), a once-weekly GLP-1 injection with significant weight loss data. Eligibility typically requires a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27+ with weight-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or dyslipidemia. Costs vary significantly. Orlistat may cost $60 to $120 per month without insurance. Contrave ranges from $100 to $200. Injectable GLP-1 medications (Saxenda, Wegovy) can cost $300 to $500+ per month without insurance. Provincial drug plan coverage is limited for weight management medications. Private insurance may cover some options with medical justification. Manufacturer patient support programs also exist. These medications are not standalone solutions. Clinical guidelines emphasize that they should complement - not replace - dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioural support. A physician can determine which option is appropriate. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.