Important Update: Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) – New NHS Weight Loss Treatment

Posted by: CM - Posted on:

Dear Patients,

The NHS has recently announced that a new weight-loss injection, Mounjaro® (tirzepatide), will be made available to support people living with obesity. We understand this news has generated a great deal of interest, and we’re already receiving many questions.

At this stage, GP practices like ours are awaiting further guidance from NHS England and local health bodies regarding exactly how and when this treatment will become accessible.

What is Mounjaro® and how does it work? Mounjaro is a medication that supports weight loss when used alongside a calorie-controlled diet and increased physical activity. It works by mimicking the effects of natural hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar, helping to reduce hunger and improve weight management.

When will it be available? According to NHS announcements, Mounjaro will be available on prescription from late June 2025 as part of a phased rollout.

Who will be eligible? :As part of our phased approach, the first group of patients who may be eligible will include those who:

  • Have a BMI of at least 40, and have obstructive sleep apnoea on CPAP (or where CPAP is not suitable or tolerated)
  • Have at least three of the following four long-term conditions:
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • High blood pressure
    • Heart disease
    • Abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia) Patients must also agree to participate in additional lifestyle support as part of their treatment plan.

Further details of the rollout, including how referrals will be managed and which NHS services will deliver this treatment, are yet to be confirmed. Practices like ours will receive more information closer to the official launch date.

What does this mean for you right now? Please be aware:

  • We do not currently have the ability to refer patients or provide prescriptions for Mounjaro.
  • We kindly ask patients not to contact the practice with requests or enquiries about this medication at this time.
  • We are also unable to monitor or advise on treatment accessed privately outside of NHS pathways.

We know this is an exciting development in the treatment of obesity, and we will absolutely share further details with you as soon as we are able.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

Health & Beyond Group