Weight loss drugs – Information for patients

What is Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) is a new medicine that helps people lose weight. It works by making you feel full, so you don’t eat as much.

Tests have shown that when used alongside healthy eating and exercise, people can lose up to 20% of their body weight. It’s a weekly injection that you give yourself, but it must be part of a weight loss programme and prescribed by a doctor.

Who can get it on the NHS?

NHS England has shared who can get Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) to start with. It will be given in different stages, starting with people who are most in need.

In Phase 1, only people with serious health conditions will be able to get it on the NHS. This is the same everywhere in England.

To get Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®), you must:

• Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40 or more, and
• Have at least four of the following health problems:
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol or fat levels in your blood
  • Sleep apnoea (trouble breathing while sleeping)
  • Heart disease
  • Type 2 diabetes

If you are eligible and wish to consider this treatment, please complete an e-consult through our website

Please note, the GP will only consider medication if patients strictly fit the eligibility criteria.