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Melbourne’s Conversion Digital offers to pay for workers’ Ozempic prescriptions

A digital marketing agency based in Melbourne has offered to pay for employees to take Ozempic and another controversial weight loss drug.

Conversion Digital, which has more than 70 employees, sent staff an email detailing its new ‘weight management’ program.

The email states employees will be given a monthly budget of $200 to spend on either Ozempic or Wegovy.

Ozempic is a type 2 diabetes management medicine that went viral overseas for its weight loss benefits with its celebrity ambassadors including tech billionaire Elon Musk.

However, its popularity drove international shortages leading to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) limiting its prescription.

Wegovy, an injectable weight-loss medication, has not been approved for use in Australia.

Conversion Digital, which has more than 70 employees, sent staff an email detailing its new 'weight management' program

Conversion Digital, which has more than 70 employees, sent staff an email detailing its new ‘weight management’ program

Staff were told the company would foot the bill for their monthly prescriptions to Ozempic

Staff were told the company would foot the bill for their monthly prescriptions to Ozempic

Conversion Digital said they were excited to ‘roll out new employee benefit options designed to assist your personal wellness journey’, news.com.au reported.

‘Today, we spotlight ‘weight management’, a crucial factor in promoting longevity and overall wellbeing,’ the email read.

‘Studies indicate that maintaining a healthy weight can mitigate numerous health risks, augment your quality of life, and foster a longer, healthier life.’

The email emaphised management are not ‘medical professionals’ but want to give employees a ‘proactive approach to health’, before listing links to Ozempic and Wegovy.

The company said they would update staff on whether Wegovy gets approved in Australia.  

‘Let’s stay ahead of the curve. If you’re interested in these products or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your health is our priority, and we’re here to support you on your journey,’ the email said.

Conversion Digital general manager Sylvia Tiet said the company’s policy will be in line with the TGA’s rules.

‘Our intention is not to promote the product for weight loss contrary to these guidelines. Rather, we aim to provide our staff with information about various health and wellness options,’ she told the publication.

Conversion Digital general manager Sylvia Tiet (above) said the response to the program has been 'overwhelmingly positive'

Conversion Digital general manager Sylvia Tiet (above) said the response to the program has been ‘overwhelmingly positive’

‘We are not, in any way, attempting to displace or disregard medical opinion. We believe in the importance of informed decision-making in consultation with healthcare professionals.’

Ms Tiet added staff’s reaction to the email was ‘overwhelmingly positive, with no negative comments or concerns raised’.

She claims two staff have already joined the program while other employees enquired about whether the plan was open to family members – including dogs. 

The company’s head of strategy, Clayton Cross, said the idea was sparked by conversations with overseas clients who have reaped the benefits of assisted weight loss.

‘We have clients overseas and their just happy as clams, lost weight, enjoying life, having more sex. It’s quite extraordinary,’ he said.

It comes after the TGA warned of major supply issues with Ozempic.

Doctors have now been advised not to prescribe the drug to any new patients. 

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This post first appeared on Daily mail