How to Get Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) on the NHS for Weight Loss: The Full Guide

Update: While Mounjaro (tirzepatide) was initially approved only for type 2 diabetes in the UK, recent developments mean it can now be prescribed for weight loss on the NHS in certain cases.

---

1. Is Mounjaro Available on the NHS for Weight Loss?

Yes, but with restrictions. The NHS follows NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines, which now include Mounjaro as an option for weight management under specific conditions.

Current NHS Criteria for Mounjaro (Weight Loss)

To qualify, you must:

• Have a BMI of 35+ (or 30+ with weight-related health conditions, e.g., high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, type 2 diabetes)
• Have tried other weight loss methods (diet, exercise, or medications like Orlistat/Wegovy) without success
• Be under specialist supervision (usually an endocrinologist or obesity clinic)

⚠ Important: Not all NHS trusts prescribe Mounjaro yet—some may still prefer Wegovy (semaglutide) or Saxenda (liraglutide).

---

2. How to Get Mounjaro on the NHS for Weight Loss

Step 1: Speak to Your GP

• Book an appointment to discuss weight management options.
• Your GP will check your BMI and medical history.

Step 2: Try First-Line Treatments (If Required)

Some NHS trusts require patients to try cheaper alternatives first, such as:

• Lifestyle changes (12-week diet/exercise programmes)
• Orlistat (Xenical) – A prescription weight loss pill
• Wegovy (semaglutide) – If available

Step 3: Get a Specialist Referral

If you meet the criteria but your GP can’t prescribe Mounjaro, they may refer you to:

• An NHS weight management clinic
• An endocrinologist (hormone specialist)

Step 4: Start Treatment & Monitoring

If approved, you’ll:

• Learn how to self-inject (Mounjaro is a weekly pen)
• Have regular check-ups (weight, blood sugar, side effects)

---

3. Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?

Feature	Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)	Wegovy (Semaglutide)
NHS Approval	Yes (BMI 35+/30+ with conditions)	Yes (BMI 35+/30+ with conditions)
How It Works	GLP-1 + GIP agonist	GLP-1 agonist
Weight Loss in Trials	~15-22% body weight	~12-15% body weight
Dosing	Weekly injection	Weekly injection
Side Effects	Nausea, diarrhoea, fatigue	Similar (nausea, constipation)

Mounjaro tends to be more effective for weight loss, but Wegovy is more widely available on the NHS.

---

4. Can You Get Mounjaro Privately for Weight Loss?

Yes! If you don’t qualify for NHS treatment, private clinics can prescribe Mounjaro.

How to Get Private Mounjaro

1. Choose a reputable clinic (e.g., Boots Online Doctor, The Online Clinic, Juniper).
2. Complete an online consultation (medical questionnaire).
3. Get a prescription if approved (~£200-£350 per month).
4. Receive delivery or collect from a pharmacy.

⚠ Warning: Avoid unregulated online sellers—only use registered UK pharmacies.

---

5. FAQs About Mounjaro on the NHS

Is Mounjaro free on the NHS?

✅ Yes, if prescribed under NHS guidelines. Otherwise, private costs apply.

How much weight can I lose on Mounjaro?

📉 Average: 15-22% body weight over a year (with diet/exercise).

What are the side effects?

Common: Nausea, diarrhoea, fatigue.
Rare but serious: Pancreatitis, gallbladder issues.

Can I get Mounjaro if I don’t have diabetes?

✅ Yes, if you meet weight/BMI criteria.

Will Mounjaro be more widely available soon?

🔍 Likely—NHS rollout is expanding, but access varies by region. Be warned! The Govenrment said this rollout could take 12 Years!

---

6. Conclusion: How to Access Mounjaro in the UK

• NHS route: Available for weight loss if BMI 35+ (or 30+ with health risks).
• Private route: Faster access but costs £99-£200/month.
• Best alternative: Wegovy (if Mounjaro isn’t available).

Next steps:

1. Check your BMI (BMI calculator).
2. Book a GP appointment to discuss options.
3. Explore private pharmacies if NHS access is limited.