The Minister for Health has indicated that the medicine Ozempic could be covered by the Drugs Payment Scheme.
The active ingredient - Semaglutide - is sold under the brand name, Ozempic, as an anti-diabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
However, it is also used for weight loss purposes.
Currently, those taking Ozempic who do not have diabetes have to pay around €150 a month.
However, Stephen Donnelly said there is emerging evidence that it might be some kind of wonder drug.
The next step in any move to cover the cost of the medicine would involve the drug manufacturer applying to use Ozempic for conditions other than diabetes.
This application would then be assessed by the HSE, but the minister said he is absolutely open to the idea.
