Overview
Soon, GPs will be able to prescribe Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss in a limited group of eligible patients.
NHS England estimates approximately 220,000 patients across primary care and specialist weight management services will qualify. Within our practice population of 6,000 patients, around 15–20 individuals are expected to meet the criteria — some may already be using Mounjaro.
Due to limited general practice resources, patients are kindly asked not to contact the practice to request Mounjaro unless they meet eligibility criteria. Prescriptions outside NHS guidance cannot be provided.
What is Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®)?
Tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro®, is a novel dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist recommended by NICE TA1026 for managing obesity alongside a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity in adults.
National NHS Policy and Local Rollout
- New policy introduced by NHS England on 23 June 2025.
- Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) are developing localised models for prescription delivery.
- In Dudley, GPs are expected to begin prescribing Mounjaro® from autumn 2025 following the development of a locality model.
- Eligible patients will be identified through health records and contacted directly by their GP.
- Access to medication will be supported by wraparound care including dietary advice and physical activity support.
Eligibility Criteria (Cohort 1: 2025-26)
To qualify for Mounjaro® on the NHS, patients must be:
- Aged over 18 with a BMI over 40, and
- Have four or more of the following diagnosed conditions:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart disease (cardiovascular disease)
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia)
Ethnicity Adjustment:
A lower BMI threshold (reduced by 2.5 kg/m²) will be applied for people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean ethnic backgrounds.
Final Notes
We appreciate your understanding as this model evolves and look forward to updating you when the primary care prescription pathway for Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) in Dudley is ready for implementation.