The criteria has been released for who can ask about the weight loss drug, with their GP starting this summerCertain people will be able to get Mounjaro prescriptions from their GP this summerCertain people will be able to get Mounjaro prescriptions from their GP this summer(Image: Getty)

It’s estimated that 1.5 million Brits are currently using weight loss injections. Now, more could be able to receive these jabs on prescription from their GP if they meet certain criteria.

Tirzepatide, better known as Mounjaro, is a weight loss medication that helps you feel satiated for longer periods, thus reducing hunger pangs. The NHS explains that the drug works by “mimicking gut hormones released by the body after eating.”

This tricks your brain into believing you’re full and also “slows down the time it takes the stomach to empty.” Results can vary based on factors such as metabolism, diet adherence, and initial weight – but most people notice changes within the first few weeks.

From March 2025, Mounjaro could be prescribed to manage weight – but only if it is recommended by a specialist weight management service. From this summer, it will be available from primary care specialists, including GPs, reports the Express.

This will be a gradual rollout, beginning with those in the highest clinical need. The programme will take around three years to be fully implemented. This means some NHS patients may be eligible this month in 2025 while others may not get the go-ahead until 2026, 2027 or 2028.

Content cannot be displayed without consentWhat health conditions will qualify for Mounjaro?

The NHS issued a list of weight-related health conditions that will be used to define those who are eligible for the weight loss jabs. These include:

  • type 2 diabetes mellitus
  • high blood pressure
  • heart disease
  • obstructive sleep apnoea (when your breathing stops and starts while you sleep)
  • abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia)

ITV This Morning’s Dr Zoe mentioned that high cholesterol or triglyceride count as ‘elevated lipids’ or ‘abnormal blood fats’. On top of this, BMI is considered alongside the various medical conditions.

What stages will the NHS rollout the drug in?

Patients will be categorised into three groups, which will determine when the NHS can offer Mounjaro, if suitable. These are:

  • Cohort 1: Will start in June 2025. At least 4 of the 5 listed health conditions plus a BMI of at least 40 (adjusted for ethnicity).
  • Cohort 2: In addition to the patients in Group 1, access to the drug will also be offered to patients meeting the following criteria in year 2. At least 4 of the 5 listed health condition plus a BMI of 35 to 39.9 (adjusted for ethnicity).
  • Cohort 3: In addition to patients in Cohorts 1 and 2, access to the drug will also be offered to patients meeting the following criteria in year 3. At least 3 of the 5 listed health conditions and a BMI of at least 40 (adjusted for ethnicity).

The staggered approach to introducing Mounjaro in primary care will be delivered in blocks to “manage the flow of patients” and avoid NHS England from becoming “overwhelmed.” A spokesperson added: “This approach will ensure the service is delivered safely and that the NHS in England is able to plan for an increase in service demand, whilst building specific skills and knowledge within the workforce.”

GPs will be able to prescribe Mounjaro for certain groups from this summerGPs will be able to prescribe Mounjaro for certain groups from this summerWhat is the cost of NHS Mounjaro jabs?

For those eligible on the NHS, the cost of Mounjaro is the standard NHS prescription charge, currently £9.90 per item. For individuals not eligible for NHS prescriptions, private prescriptions for Mounjaro can range from £220 to £300 per month, according to Superdrug Online Doctor.

Are there any adverse effects from taking Mounjaro?

Like all medications, the NHS shared that Mounjaro can have side effects that should be discussed with healthcare professionals before starting the treatment. Common side effects include feeling sick, indigestion, constipation and diarrhoea.

There can be some more serious side effects, such as low blood sugar and gallstones. People have also reported inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Will some people not be able to take Mounjaro?

Mounjaro might not be suitable for everyone, and not everyone who meets the eligibility criteria will want to use it to support their weight loss. There are other options available, including weight loss programmes that use tried and tested methods such as lifestyle and behavioural changes, nutrition and physical activity advice.

Speak to a healthcare professional about the best option for you in your local area. For more information, you can find some details and other commonly asked questions on the NHS website here.