New Zealand Consumer Medicine Information
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their own physicians or qualified healthcare professionals for individualised assessment and care. While all care has been taken to ensure the information provided is accurate at the time of publication, it may change. For the most up-to-date and official medicine information, please refer to the New Zealand Medsafe database at www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for any reliance placed on the content of this page.
Our NZ-registered medical professionals offer evidence-based advice on a wide range of medications, ensuring you understand the benefits, potential side effects, and proper usage of your prescriptions.
This section answers some common questions about the medications used at our clinic. It does not contain all of the available information and is not a substitute for discussing your treatment with your doctor or pharmacist.
Every medicine comes with both risks and benefits, and your doctor has carefully considered the risks of your treatment against the expected benefits.
If you have any concerns or questions about taking your medicine, we encourage you to speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
Bookmark this page for future reference, and feel free to contact us at drlee@dunedinmedical.co.nz or visit our clinic in Dunedin for further guidance or a personalised consultation.
Disclaimer
While all care has been taken to provide you with the most up-to-date Consumer Medicine Information, we advise you to check the Medsafe Data Sheets and the Consumer Medicine Information site for the most current information. The information provided here is intended as a guideline only and should not be used to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any medical concerns or before starting new treatments.
Botox Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Botox?
Botox is a purified botulinum toxin type A injection used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines. It is widely used to smooth frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead wrinkles by temporarily relaxing targeted muscles, providing a refreshed and more youthful appearance.
How Does Botox Work?
Botox works by blocking nerve signals to specific muscles, reducing their activity and preventing the formation of wrinkles. This results in smoother skin and fewer visible fine lines in the treated areas.
Common Uses:
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Smoothing moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows.
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Reducing crow’s feet around the eyes and horizontal forehead lines.
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Treatment for certain medical conditions, such as chronic migraines and excessive sweating.
Benefits:
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Non-surgical and quick procedure with minimal downtime.
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Immediate results that typically last between 3 to 6 months.
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Customisable treatment to target specific problem areas for a more youthful, natural look.
Potential Side Effects:
As with any treatment, Botox may have side effects. Common side effects include:
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Mild redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
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Temporary muscle weakness near the treated area.
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Flu-like symptoms, headache, or eyelid drooping.
Is Botox Right for You?
Our NZ-registered professionals at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic offer personalised consultations to determine if Botox is the best option for your aesthetic or medical needs. We focus on tailoring treatments to your unique goals to ensure safe and effective results.
For a comprehensive guide on Botox, including dosage, risks, and precautions, please download the full Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) leaflet below.
If you have any concerns or questions about Botox treatment, please contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.
Xeomin Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Xeomin?
Xeomin is a botulinum toxin type A injection used to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and fine lines. It works by temporarily relaxing muscles in the treated areas, helping to smooth frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. Xeomin is also used in medical treatments for conditions like abnormal muscle contractions.
How Does Xeomin Work?
Xeomin blocks the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. By preventing these contractions, Xeomin helps to temporarily soften lines and wrinkles, giving a more youthful and refreshed appearance.
Common Uses:
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Treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows.
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Smoothing of crow’s feet around the eyes and horizontal forehead lines.
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Treatment for medical conditions like cervical dystonia and blepharospasm.
Benefits:
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Non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure.
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Little to no recovery time, allowing you to resume daily activities.
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Effects typically last 3 to 4 months, depending on individual factors.
Potential Side Effects:
As with all medicines, Xeomin may cause side effects. Some of the more common side effects include:
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Redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
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Temporary muscle weakness in the treated area.
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Headache, flu-like symptoms, or eyelid drooping.
Is Xeomin Right for You?
Our NZ-registered professionals at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic are here to help you decide if Xeomin is the right choice for your aesthetic or medical needs. We offer personalised consultations to ensure that Xeomin treatments are both safe and effective for you.
For more detailed information, including dosage and risks, please download the full Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) leaflet below.
If you have any concerns or questions about using Xeomin, please consult your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.
Dysport Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Dysport?
Dysport is a botulinum toxin type A injection used to treat wrinkles and fine lines by temporarily relaxing muscles. It is commonly used to reduce the appearance of frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines. Dysport is also effective in treating medical conditions such as muscle spasms and excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis).
How Does Dysport Work?
Dysport works by blocking nerve signals to the targeted muscles, reducing their activity. This helps smooth the skin and diminish the appearance of dynamic wrinkles caused by muscle contractions, resulting in a more youthful and relaxed look.
Common Uses:
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Reducing moderate to severe frown lines between the eyebrows.
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Softening crow’s feet around the eyes and forehead wrinkles.
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Treating medical conditions like cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating).
Benefits:
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Non-invasive, quick treatment with minimal downtime.
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Long-lasting results, typically up to 4 months depending on individual factors.
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Can also address medical concerns such as muscle spasms and excessive sweating.
Potential Side Effects:
As with any treatment, Dysport may have side effects. Common side effects include:
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Redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
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Temporary muscle weakness in the treated area.
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Mild headache or flu-like symptoms.
Is Dysport Right for You?
Our NZ-registered professionals at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic offer comprehensive consultations to determine if Dysport is suitable for your cosmetic or medical needs. We customise treatments to achieve the best results tailored to your goals.
For more detailed information, including potential risks, dosage, and treatment guidelines, please download the complete Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) leaflet below.
If you have any concerns or questions about Dysport treatment, please contact your doctor or pharmacist for professional advice.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.
Nabota Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Nabota?
Nabota is a botulinum toxin type A injection (prabotulinumtoxinA) used to teporarily improve the appearance of moderate to severe glabellar lines (frown lines between the eyebrows) in adults under 65. Like other botulinum toxins, it works by relaxing the underlying facial muscles, but is manufactured using a proprietary purification process for high precision and safety.
In addition to cosmetic applications, Nabota has been studied in multiple international trials and is used under prescription by qualified medical professionals.
How Does Nabota Work?
Nabota works by temporarily blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that triggers muscle contractions. By interrupting this signal at specific injection points, Nabota relaxes the targeted muscles — leading to a smoother appearance and softer expression lines.
Most patients notice effects within 2–3 days, with full results developing over 1–2 weeks. Results typically last up to 3–4 months.
Common Uses
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Softening glabellar lines (the “11s” between your eyebrows)
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Providing a natural, relaxed look without over-freezing facial expression
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Used off-label for similar cosmetic or therapeutic purposes (under clinical discretion)
Benefits
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Fast-acting results, often visible within days
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Purified formulation with a strong safety profile
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Consistent results shown in large Phase III clinical trials
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May have a lower risk of antibody resistance in long-term users compared to other toxins
Potential Side Effects
As with all botulinum toxin treatments, Nabota may cause side effects. These are usually mild and temporary:
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Headache
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Redness or bruising at the injection site
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Mild swelling or tenderness
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In rare cases, eyelid ptosis (drooping), dry eyes, or flu-like symptoms
Seek immediate medical care if you experience difficulty swallowing, breathing, or speaking.
Is Nabota Right for You?
At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, our doctor-led team offers personalised assessments to determine whether Nabota is the right treatment for your aesthetic or therapeutic goals.
We focus on natural results, not frozen faces — and always prioritise safety, trust, and tailored care.
Want to know more?
Download the official Consumer Medicine Information or speak with our clinical team to learn more about dosage, risks, and post-treatment care.
If you have any concerns or questions about Nabota treatment, please contact your doctor or pharmacist for personalised advice.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.
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Belotero Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Belotero?
Belotero is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler designed to smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and deep folds, while also restoring volume and enhancing facial contours. Known for its smooth integration into the skin, Belotero helps maintain a natural, refreshed appearance without compromising facial expressions.
How Does Belotero Work?
Belotero works by replenishing lost hyaluronic acid in the skin, a naturally occurring substance that helps retain moisture and maintain skin elasticity. By injecting this filler into targeted areas, the skin appears plumper, smoother, and more youthful. Belotero is uniquely formulated to integrate into the skin seamlessly, ensuring a balanced and natural look.
Common Uses:
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Smoothing fine lines around the mouth and eyes.
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Reducing deeper folds, such as nasolabial folds (smile lines).
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Enhancing lip volume and defining facial contours.
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Addressing under-eye hollows and other areas of volume loss.
Benefits:
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Provides a natural, subtle enhancement without a “frozen” look.
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Immediate results with minimal downtime.
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Long-lasting effects, typically between 6 to 12 months depending on the treatment area.
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Suitable for treating both superficial fine lines and deeper wrinkles.
Potential Side Effects:
Belotero is generally well-tolerated, but as with all dermal fillers, some side effects may occur, such as:
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Redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site.
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Temporary tenderness or discomfort in the treated areas.
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Minor lumps or bumps that typically resolve on their own.
Is Belotero Right for You?
Our NZ-registered professionals at Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic offer personalised consultations to help you determine if Belotero is the right choice for your aesthetic goals.
We customise each treatment to ensure natural-looking, beautiful results tailored to your individual needs.
For more detailed information or to book a consultation, contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.
Saxenda Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Saxenda?
Saxenda® is a prescription injectable medication containing liraglutide, used to support weight loss in adults aged 18 years or older. It works by mimicking a natural hormone (GLP-1) that regulates appetite in the brain, helping you feel fuller for longer and reduce calorie intake.
Saxenda is recommended for people with:
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A BMI of 30 or higher (obesity), or
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A BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) and weight-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnoea.
It is not a stimulant or appetite suppressant, and must be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How Does Saxenda Work?
Saxenda® activates receptors in the brain involved in appetite control. This helps reduce hunger and increases feelings of fullness, making it easier to eat less and lose weight.
It is administered once daily via subcutaneous injection using a prefilled pen. The starting dose is 0.6 mg daily, gradually increasing over 5 weeks to the maintenance dose of 3.0 mg per day.
Most patients begin to see weight loss within the first 2 weeks, with continued results over 9–12 months. Continued use is only recommended if at least 5% of body weight has been lost after 12 weeks on the full dose.
Common Uses
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Supporting medical weight loss for individuals with obesity or weight-related health risks
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Helping maintain long-term weight loss following initial reduction
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Used as part of a doctor-supervised treatment plan (not suitable for casual or cosmetic use)
Benefits
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Helps regulate appetite and support healthy eating behaviours
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Shown to result in sustained weight loss when combined with diet and exercise
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Delivered via easy-to-use, adjustable-dose pen
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Can improve related health markers like blood sugar, blood pressure, and sleep quality
Potential Side Effects
As with any prescription medicine, Saxenda® may cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, especially in the first weeks of treatment.
Common side effects include:
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Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation
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Headache, dizziness, tiredness
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Changes in appetite or taste
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Injection site irritation (redness, bruising, or itching)
Less common but more serious side effects may include:
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Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
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Gallbladder problems or gallstones
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Signs of thyroid issues (e.g. neck swelling, hoarseness)
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Mood changes, including depression or anxiety
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Low blood sugar, especially if used with other diabetes medications
Stop using Saxenda® and contact your doctor immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, signs of allergic reaction, or difficulty breathing.
Is Saxenda Right for You?
At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, our doctor-led team will assess whether Saxenda® is appropriate for your needs. We consider your BMI, health history, and goals before initiating any weight loss treatment.
Saxenda® is not suitable for use in:
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Children or adolescents under 18
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Pregnant or breastfeeding women
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Individuals with a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis
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Patients already on other GLP-1 medications (e.g. Ozempic, Wegovy)
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Want to Know More?
We recommend discussing Saxenda® with our clinical team for individualised guidance. For detailed product information, including safety and usage, refer to the official New Zealand Medsafe database.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.
Wegovy Overview – Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy® is a once-weekly injectable medication that contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It is designed to support weight loss and long-term weight maintenance in adults and adolescents aged 12 and over. Wegovy works by mimicking a natural gut hormone that regulates appetite, helping you feel fuller for longer and reducing food cravings.
Wegovy is prescribed for:
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Adults with a BMI of 30+ (obesity)
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Adults with a BMI of 27+ who also have weight-related health concerns (e.g. high blood pressure, cholesterol, or heart disease)
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Adolescents (12+) with obesity and a body weight over 60 kg
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Adults with existing cardiovascular disease to help reduce the risk of further events, even without diabetes
It must be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How Does Wegovy Work?
Wegovy® acts on appetite-regulating centres in the brain, helping reduce hunger, increase satiety, and improve control over eating behaviour. This makes it easier to consume fewer calories and achieve steady, sustained weight loss.
It is delivered via a pre-filled pen once a week, starting at a low dose (0.25 mg) and gradually increasing to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg over 16 weeks.
Most patients begin to notice appetite changes within the first few weeks, with visible weight loss developing over time.
Common Uses
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Medically guided weight loss and long-term weight maintenance
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Preventing weight regain following initial loss
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Reducing heart-related risks in patients with existing cardiovascular disease
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Off-label metabolic or hormonal applications under medical supervision
Benefits
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Proven long-term weight loss when combined with diet and exercise
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Once-weekly dosing for convenience
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May improve cardiovascular markers and reduce risk of heart events
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Can be prescribed from adolescence (12+) under medical oversight
Potential Side Effects
Wegovy® is generally well tolerated but may cause side effects, particularly when starting or increasing the dose.
Common side effects include:
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Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation
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Fatigue, headache, dizziness
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Bloating, indigestion, dry mouth
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Mild injection site reactions
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Temporary appetite changes or taste disturbances
Less common but serious side effects may include:
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Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
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Gallbladder problems or gallstones
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Severe allergic reactions
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Low blood sugar, especially if used with insulin or sulfonylureas
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Bowel obstruction or worsening diabetic eye disease in some cases
Seek immediate care if you experience persistent abdominal pain, severe allergic symptoms, or signs of dehydration.
Is Wegovy Right for You?
At Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic, our doctor-led team can assess whether Wegovy® is appropriate based on your health status, weight history, and treatment goals. It is not suitable for:
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People with Type 1 diabetes
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Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
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Patients with a history of pancreatitis or certain thyroid conditions
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Those already using GLP-1 agonist medications (e.g., Ozempic, Saxenda)
If you're unsure, we’re here to help you explore your options with evidence-based care and no pressure.
Want to Know More?
Our team is available to discuss whether Wegovy is right for your weight and wellness goals. For further information, including dosage and full prescribing details, please refer to the official New Zealand Medsafe database.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Patients are advised to consult their doctor or healthcare provider for individual assessment. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, information may change. For official updates, please refer to www.medsafe.govt.nz. Dunedin Medical & Aesthetics Clinic accepts no responsibility for reliance placed on the content of this page.