From 23 June 2025, some GP practices in West Yorkshire started contacting eligible patients to see if Mounjaro® might help them manage their weight. This is part of a carefully phased rollout based on the latest guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). These questions and answers provide more information about who may be eligible and how to access tirzepatide (Mounjaro®).
1. What is tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)?
Tirzepatide, also known by the brand name Mounjaro®, is a new treatment approved by the NHS to help manage obesity and related health conditions. It is a weekly injection that mimics hormones in your gut to help you feel full for longer and manage blood sugar levels.
2. How does Mounjaro work?
Mounjaro works by copying the effect of two natural hormones in your body that regulate appetite and blood sugar. This helps reduce hunger and improves blood sugar control.
3. Is this the same as semaglutide (Wegovy) or liraglutide (Saxenda)?
It’s similar in that all of these medicines support weight loss and blood sugar control. However, Mounjaro contains a different active ingredient (tirzepatide) which acts on two hormone receptors rather than one.
4. How is Mounjaro taken?
Mounjaro is a weekly self-injection. If you are eligible, a healthcare professional will show you how to use it.
Eligibility and access
5. Can I get Mounjaro from my GP?
Only a small group of patients will be eligible for Mounjaro at first. You must meet strict NHS criteria and be assessed by a healthcare professional. If you are eligible, your GP practice or the NHS will contact you, please wait and do not contact them.
6. Who is eligible under the current NHS rollout?
In the first year, Mounjaro is only available to patients who have:
A BMI of 40 or more (adjusted for ethnicity)
At least 4 of the following health conditions:
- type 2 diabetes
- high blood pressure
- heart disease
- obstructive sleep apnoea
- abnormal blood fats (dyslipidemias)
Or where urgent weight loss is needed for critical surgery or treatment
If you're from a South Asian, Chinese, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean background, the BMI threshold is slightly lower - 37.5 instead of 40.
7. What if I meet the national (NICE) criteria, but I’m told I’m not eligible right now?
We know this can be upsetting. The NHS is introducing this treatment in stages based on funding and capacity, which means some people who meet national clinical guidance (NICE) may not yet be eligible under local NHS rules.
Please know this is not about you. It’s about how services are being phased. You are still entitled to care, and we will work with you to explore other options through our Pillars of Support - which may include help with emotional wellbeing, physical activity, peer groups, or community resources.
8. Will it be available to more people later?
Yes. The NHS plans to expand access in stages over the next 12 years, based on clinical need, NHS capacity, and results from early phases.
9. Can I ask my GP for this treatment?
There is no need to contact your GP practice about Mounjaro. If you are eligible, your GP practice or healthcare team will get in touch with you directly. Though as the treatment is being phased in this may take a little time.
10. Why is access being phased?
Because millions of people could potentially benefit, the NHS is rolling out Mounjaro gradually to make sure services can support patients safely and appropriately.
11. Can I be referred directly for Mounjaro?
No. You cannot be referred directly. A clinical assessment is needed first to check eligibility.
Treatment process and support
12. What happens if I’m eligible?
You’ll be invited for a clinical assessment, which may include blood tests and a conversation about lifestyle, medical history, and your readiness to start treatment. If appropriate, you'll be shown how to use the injection and supported throughout the treatment.
13. What is ‘wraparound care’?
Mounjaro must be used alongside healthy eating, physical activity, and lifestyle support. This is known as wraparound care and is essential to the success of the treatment.
14. How long will I be on Mounjaro?
You will be reviewed regularly. If you haven’t lost at least 5% of your weight after 6 months at the highest dose, treatment may be stopped. There is currently no time limit, but your GP or healthcare team will advise.
15. Are there any side effects?
Like all medicines, Mounjaro can cause side effects. Common ones include feeling sick, indigestion, constipation or diarrhoea. More serious but rare side effects include low blood sugar, gallstones, or inflammation of the pancreas.
16. Will Mounjaro affect my other medications?
It can affect how your body absorbs other medicines. Your GP or healthcare team will check what you’re taking before prescribing it. Let them know about any medicines or supplements you use.
17. Can I take it if I’m pregnant or planning a pregnancy?
No. Mounjaro should not be used during pregnancy or if you're trying to conceive, as there's not enough safety data yet.
Alternatives and costs
18. What are the alternatives if I’m not eligible?
There are other NHS-supported weight loss options including:
- NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme (NHS DPP)
- NHS Type 2 Diabetes Path to Remission Programme
- NHS Digital Weight Management Programme
- Lose weight - Better Health - NHS
- Local lifestyle and behavioural support services
Speak to your GP practice or healthcare team to explore the best options for you.
19. How much does it cost?
Normal NHS prescription charges apply, unless you qualify for free prescriptions.
20. What should I do if I’m already using Mounjaro?
If you’re using it for diabetes, continue as prescribed. Let your GP know if you're taking it privately, as it may affect your overall care.