Quick Trulicity cost summary (Australia)
- PBS co-payment (T2D only): Typically around $31–$32 for general patients or about $7–$8 for concession per script. Government indexation may adjust these amounts over time.
- Private (off PBS): Commonly $120–$190 per weekly pen, depending on dose and pharmacy. Approx. $480–$760 per month if four pens are dispensed.
- Weight loss use: Not PBS-covered. Expect private pricing if prescribed off-label and if stock is available.
- Supply: Intermittent shortages have impacted GLP‑1s, including Trulicity. Call ahead and consider alternatives if timing is critical.
PBS status: when Trulicity is subsidised
In Australia, Trulicity (dulaglutide) is PBS‑listed for eligible adults with type 2 diabetes. If you meet PBS criteria and your prescriber issues a PBS script, you pay up to the standard PBS co‑payment (general vs concession). This keeps out‑of‑pocket costs predictable compared with private purchase.
- Indication: type 2 diabetes (as per PBS criteria)
- Patient contribution: up to the PBS co‑payment (general or concession)
- Not covered for: weight loss or obesity management
Note: PBS co‑payment thresholds are periodically indexed. Your pharmacist will confirm the current amount at the time of dispensing.
Private Trulicity pricing (off the PBS)
If you do not qualify for the PBS, if you are using Trulicity off‑label (e.g., for weight‑related goals), or if your prescriber issues a private script, you will pay the pharmacy‑set retail price.
Typical private price ranges
- Per weekly pen: Approximately $120–$190 depending on dose and pharmacy
- Per month (4 pens): About $480–$760
Pricing varies by location, pharmacy buying cycles, wholesaler supply and demand, and any manufacturer stock constraints. Calling a few pharmacies often reveals meaningful differences.
Find current private prices near you
Availability and supply issues in Australia
Australia has experienced intermittent GLP‑1 shortages since 2022, and Trulicity has been affected at times. Stock can vary by dose and location. If your timeline is tight, plan ahead.
- Call multiple pharmacies and ask about specific strengths
- Request your prescriber to note clinically acceptable alternatives in case your first choice isn’t in stock
- Monitor the TGA Medicine Shortage Reports for updates
External resource: TGA medicine shortages information
How Trulicity cost compares with other options
Before committing, compare Trulicity with other GLP‑1 or related therapies for both access and cost. Each brand has different PBS settings, price ranges and availability patterns.
- Ozempic cost in Australia (semaglutide; diabetes PBS; known shortages)
- Rybelsus cost in Australia (oral semaglutide)
- Mounjaro cost in Australia (tirzepatide; emerging supply, check PBS status and indications)
- Saxenda cost in Australia (liraglutide; weight‑loss indication; daily injections)
Related overviews:
Ways to reduce out‑of‑pocket costs
- Confirm PBS eligibility: If you meet criteria for type 2 diabetes, PBS co‑payment is usually the lowest out‑of‑pocket route.
- Ring around: Private prices vary. Call multiple pharmacies for current stock and pricing.
- Dose planning: Discuss clinically appropriate strengths and quantities with your prescriber to avoid mid‑month shortages.
- Consider alternatives: If Trulicity is unavailable or costly privately, compare with Ozempic, Rybelsus, Mounjaro or Saxenda.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Trulicity cost in Australia on the PBS?
If you qualify under PBS criteria for type 2 diabetes, you typically pay up to the PBS co‑payment (around $31–$32 general, about $7–$8 concession per script, subject to indexation). The pharmacist will confirm the current amount.
What does Trulicity cost privately?
Private prices commonly range $120–$190 per weekly pen, or roughly $480–$760 per month for four pens. Prices vary with demand, dose and pharmacy supply.
Is Trulicity covered for weight loss?
No. PBS covers Trulicity for type 2 diabetes only. Weight‑related use is off‑label, requires a private script and full out‑of‑pocket payment if a pharmacy can supply.
Are Trulicity shortages still happening?
GLP‑1 supply has been variable. Availability can change quickly by dose and location. Check the TGA medicine shortages page and call ahead.
What alternatives should I compare on price and access?
Compare with Ozempic, Rybelsus, Mounjaro and Saxenda. Each has distinct PBS coverage and pricing dynamics.
Does the dose change the price?
Yes. Higher strengths can be differently priced or harder to find. Ask pharmacies about specific strengths, and ask your prescriber about clinically acceptable alternatives if stock is limited.
Will I pay more at the start?
Some patients face higher up‑front costs if starting privately during a shortage or while waiting for PBS eligibility. Calling multiple pharmacies can help identify a lower price.
Can I switch brands to save?
Only under medical supervision. Switching within the GLP‑1 class or to tirzepatide may affect dose, side effects, cost and availability. Discuss with your prescriber first.
Need help navigating Trulicity costs and access?
Tell us your situation (PBS eligibility, location, dose, timing) and we’ll help you compare practical options and current availability.
Trulicity cost and availability enquiry
Information on this page is general and not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Speak with your healthcare professional about suitability and dosing.