23 June 2025 – National Announcement

The NHS has announced a major update in obesity management: Mounjaro® (tirzepatide), a new medication for weight loss, is now available through selected GP services for a limited cohort of eligible patients, as reported by the BBC.

How Mounjaro Works

Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro®, is a GLP-1/GIP dual agonist, meaning it mimics two hormones released in the gut that signal fullness and slow stomach emptying, helping to reduce appetite and food intake. Other obesity medications, such as semaglutide (Wegovy®) and liraglutide (Saxenda®), are GLP-1 agonists only. All these medications work by enhancing the body’s natural signals that help control hunger.

Who Is Eligible?

Mounjaro is accessible via the NHS only for individuals at the highest risk of severe health problems related to obesity. To qualify, you must:

• Have a BMI (body mass index) of 40 or more (or 37.5 or more if you are of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean descent), and
• Have four or more of the following weight-related health conditions: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnoea, or type 2 diabetes, or
• Have at least one weight-related health condition and an urgent need to lose weight for a specific life-limiting reason, such as preparation for cancer treatment or organ transplant surgery.

Availability and Access

The June 23 announcement does not mean immediate prescription access at all GP surgeries. Eligible patients will be identified centrally and contacted when the new primary care pathway is operational. GPs themselves cannot initiate Mounjaro prescriptions at this stage.

What Happens Now?

A new, dedicated NHS primary care service is in development to streamline access for eligible patients. The exact start date will be announced as soon as it is confirmed.

In the Meantime

If you believe you meet the eligibility criteria, your GP can refer you to a specialist weight management service where these medications may be prescribed. Do not contact your GP directly for a Mounjaro prescription.

Key Takeaways

• Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is now available via select NHS GP services for a limited number of eligible patients.
• Strict criteria apply—those at highest risk will be prioritized.
• A new NHS service is being set up to manage access; GPs cannot directly prescribe Mounjaro yet.
• Eligible patients will be contacted when the service is ready; referrals to specialist services remain the current pathway.

Stay informed as further details become available. The NHS will announce the official start date and provide updates on how eligible patients can access this new weight loss treatment.