In October 2023, NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) approved tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for use on the NHS in England for weight management. However, NHS access remains tightly restricted and most people seeking Mounjaro in the UK continue to access it through private pharmacies.
NICE's Technology Appraisal Guidance (TA1026) recommends tirzepatide as an option for managing excess weight in adults when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. The approval is subject to specific criteria.
To be eligible for Mounjaro on the NHS, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- BMI of 35 kg/m² or above (or 32.5 kg/m² or above for certain ethnic groups)
- At least one weight-related comorbidity (e.g. type 2 diabetes, hypertension, obstructive sleep apnoea, cardiovascular disease)
- Referred to a specialist weight management service (Tier 3 or Tier 4)
- No previous treatment with tirzepatide
- Treatment started within the NHS specialist weight management service
NHS Mounjaro is only available through specialist weight management services — you cannot get it from your GP directly. Referral waiting lists can be 12–24 months in many areas.
| Factor | NHS Mounjaro | Private Mounjaro |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (prescription charges may apply) | £139–£369/month depending on dose |
| Waiting time | 12–24 months for referral | Available within days |
| Eligibility | Strict (BMI 35+, comorbidities, Tier 3) | BMI 30+ (varies by pharmacy) |
| Monitoring | Regular specialist review | Online consultations |
| Support | Dietitian, psychologist, physiotherapist | Varies by pharmacy |
| Availability | Limited by area | Nationwide |
If you don't meet the NHS criteria — or if you don't want to wait 12–24 months — private prescriptions are widely available from over 60 GPhC-registered UK pharmacies. Prices start from around £139/month for the 2.5mg starting dose, and many pharmacies offer discount codes for first-time patients.