Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is available in the UK for weight management, but there are specific eligibility criteria you need to meet. Generally, you can be prescribed Mounjaro if you have:
- A BMI of 30 or above (obese), or
- A BMI of 27 or above (overweight) with at least one weight-related health condition such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnoea
Some prescribers may adjust these thresholds for patients of certain ethnic backgrounds, as health risks can occur at lower BMI levels in South Asian and Black populations.
Route 1: Through Your GP
Your first option is to speak with your NHS GP. Here is what to expect:
- Book a standard appointment and explain that you would like to discuss weight management options, including Mounjaro.
- Your GP will assess your medical history, current medications, BMI, and any weight-related conditions.
- Be aware that NHS availability of Mounjaro for weight management is currently limited. Many GPs can prescribe it, but NHS funding varies by region and clinical commissioning group.
- If your GP cannot prescribe Mounjaro, they may refer you to a specialist weight management service (tier 3) where it may be available.
Route 2: Private Clinic
Private weight management clinics can prescribe Mounjaro directly. This typically involves:
- An initial consultation (in person or video call), usually costing £50-150
- Blood tests and health assessments
- Ongoing monitoring and follow-up appointments
- You will pay for the medication privately at market rates
Route 3: Online Pharmacy
The most popular route for UK patients is through GPhC-registered online pharmacies. The process is typically:
- Complete an online consultation: You will answer detailed questions about your health, medical history, current medications, and weight loss goals.
- Provide evidence of BMI: Most pharmacies require a recent photo, video consultation, or GP records confirming your BMI.
- Clinical review: A qualified prescriber (doctor or independent prescriber pharmacist) reviews your consultation.
- Prescription issued: If approved, your prescription is issued and the medication is dispatched, usually arriving within 1-3 working days.
What You Will Need
Regardless of which route you choose, have the following ready:
- Your current weight and height (for BMI calculation)
- A list of all current medications and supplements
- Details of any existing health conditions
- Information about previous weight loss attempts
Use a comparison tool like MedsLens to compare prices and services across multiple GPhC-registered online pharmacies before committing to a provider. Prices for the same dose can vary by £30-60 between pharmacies.