Weight Management Medication
We want to keep you informed about changes to how weight loss treatments are offered on the NHS.
- NHS England guidance does not allow GPs to prescribe weight loss injections (such as tirzepatide / Mounjaro) for managing weight loss.
These treatments are only available through specialist NHS services, for patients who meet strict eligibility criteria.
- We’re getting a lot of questions about weight loss injections, and we want to help you understand the strict rules around them. This medication is only available on the NHS for a small number of people who have the highest clinical need.
- The NHS has specific criteria that must be met for a GP to be able to prescribe this type of medication. These rules ensure that the people who need it most can get access, as the supply is limited.
- Who can be referred for assessment?
Patients may be eligible for an assessment for tirzepatide if they meet both of the following:
- A BMI of 35 or above
- Or a BMI of 32.5 or above if you are from a South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean background
AND
At least 4 of these 5 diagnosed health conditions:
- High cholesterol requiring treatment
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure requiring medication
Heart or blood vessel disease (atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease)
- Obstructive sleep apnoea where treatment like CPAP is needed
We understand that managing your weight can be challenging, and support looks different for everyone. If this programme is not right for you, there are other NHS weight management services that may be able to help.
We can still refer you to alternative NHS-supported services, providing guidance and support to help you achieve your health and wellbeing goals.
To find out more, please visit:
- Obstructive sleep apnoea where treatment like CPAP is needed
