Mounjaro NHS Eligibility 2025: Complete Guide
Wondering if you can get Mounjaro (tirzepatide) on the NHS? This guide covers the 2025 eligibility criteria, the new GP prescribing pathway, BMI requirements, and step-by-step instructions for accessing this weight loss treatment through the NHS.
2025 Update: GP Prescribing Now Available
In 2025, many NHS areas have enabled GPs to prescribe Mounjaro directly, without requiring a specialist weight management referral. This can significantly reduce waiting times for eligible patients.
Quick Eligibility Check
Do you meet the basic NHS criteria for Mounjaro? Check the requirements below:
- BMI 35 or higherPrimary threshold
- BMI 30+ with weight-related conditionAlternative pathway
- BMI 27.5+ for certain ethnic groupsAdjusted threshold
- Previous lifestyle interventionUsually 12 weeks minimum
- Age 18 or overNot licensed for under 18s
- Confirmed type 2 diabetes diagnosisPrimary requirement
- Inadequate glycaemic controlHbA1c above target
- Tried metformin (if suitable)First-line treatment
- Tried at least one other diabetes medicationDepends on guidelines
BMI Requirements Explained
Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is a key factor in NHS eligibility for weight management medications like Mounjaro. Here's how the thresholds work:
35+
Standard Threshold
No additional conditions required
30+
With Health Condition
Must have weight-related comorbidity
27.5+
Adjusted Threshold
For South Asian, Chinese backgrounds
Why adjusted thresholds? Research shows that people of South Asian, Chinese, and some other ethnic backgrounds may develop weight-related health conditions at lower BMI levels. NICE guidelines reflect this with adjusted thresholds, typically 2.5 points lower than standard criteria.
Weight-Related Conditions That Lower the BMI Threshold
If you have a BMI between 30-35, having one of these conditions may make you eligible for NHS Mounjaro:
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How to Get Mounjaro on the NHS
Follow these steps to access Mounjaro through the NHS:
Book a GP Appointment
Schedule an appointment with your GP to discuss your weight management goals. Mention that you're interested in Mounjaro specifically. Your GP will assess your eligibility based on BMI, health conditions, and treatment history.
Complete Required Assessments
Your GP may need to check your BMI, blood pressure, blood tests (including HbA1c, liver function, kidney function), and review your medical history. They'll confirm you don't have contraindications like a history of pancreatitis or medullary thyroid cancer.
Pathway A: GP Prescribing (2025)
In areas where GP prescribing is available, your GP may be able to start you on Mounjaro directly. This is the fastest route if available in your NHS area. Ask your GP if this option exists locally.
Pathway B: Specialist Referral
If GP prescribing isn't available, your GP will refer you to a specialist weight management service or obesity clinic. Waiting times vary by area. The specialist will conduct a comprehensive assessment before prescribing.
Start Treatment & Monitoring
Once approved, you'll start on the lowest dose (2.5mg) and gradually increase. You'll have regular check-ups to monitor your progress, side effects, and adjust treatment as needed. NHS prescriptions are free if you're eligible for exemption.
GP vs Specialist Route: What's Changed in 2025
- Faster access - no specialist waiting list
- Convenient - manage at your local surgery
- Integrated with your existing care
- Not available in all NHS areas yet
- GP may need training/support
- Comprehensive multidisciplinary support
- Access to dietitians, psychologists
- Structured weight management programme
- Longer waiting times (varies by area)
- May require travel to specialist centre
What If You Don't Qualify for NHS?
If you don't meet NHS eligibility criteria or face long waiting times, you have other options:
Private Prescription
Access Mounjaro through private clinics or online pharmacies. Costs typically range from £200-£350 per month. Requires a medical assessment but has lower BMI thresholds and faster access.
Learn about private accessAlternative Medications
Wegovy (semaglutide) has similar eligibility criteria on the NHS. Saxenda (liraglutide) may have different thresholds in some areas. Orlistat is available with lower requirements.
Compare all GLP-1 medicationsNHS Lifestyle Programmes
The NHS offers free weight management programmes that may help you qualify for medication in the future. Completing a lifestyle programme is often required before medication is prescribed. Ask your GP about local options.
Regional Variation Across the UK
NHS availability of Mounjaro varies by region and nation:
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| England | Available | NICE approved. GP prescribing varies by ICB. |
| Scotland | Available | SMC approved. Access via weight management services. |
| Wales | Available | AWMSG approved. Follows NICE guidance. |
| Northern Ireland | Limited | Follows NICE. Implementation may vary. |
Even within England, different Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) may have different policies on when Mounjaro is prescribed versus alternatives like Wegovy. Your GP can advise on local policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
References & Sources
- NICE Technology Appraisal: Tirzepatide for managing overweight and obesity (TA1026), 2024.
- NICE Clinical Guideline: Obesity: identification, assessment and management (CG189).
- NHS England. Weight management services commissioning guidance, 2024.
- MHRA. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) Summary of Product Characteristics.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Mounjaro is a prescription medication that requires assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. NHS eligibility criteria may vary by area and change over time. Always consult with your GP or pharmacist for personalised advice about weight management options.
Last updated: December 2025
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