Is Mounjaro available on the NHS?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a revolutionary weight-loss medication that is making waves in the medical community due to its remarkable effectiveness in helping people lose weight. In clinical trials, patients using Mounjaro have lost as much as 20.9% of their body weight in just 36 weeks. But is Mounjaro available on the NHS? Well, yes and no.

Although it has been approved by the MHRA for weight loss it is mainly prescribed for type 2 diabetes in the NHS, however, it is not widely prescribed on the NHS for weight loss. In this blog we will attempt to answer the question, is Mounjaro available on the NHS?

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro, which contains the active ingredient, tirzepatide, was developed by Eli Lilly and licensed for weight loss by the MHRA in November 2023.

It contains the active ingredient tirzepatide, which combines two chemically modified gut hormones—glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP).

These hormones, known as incretins, stimulate insulin release in response to food intake. Since Mounjaro contains both GLP-1 and GIP properties, it is often referred to as a “twincretin.”

The combination of GLP-1 and GIP in Mounjaro contributes to weight loss by:

• Suppressing appetite
• Increasing feelings of fullness (satiety)
• Slowing gastric emptying

The table below summarises the effects of GLP-1 and GIP.

Two incretins are better than one

Research has shown that combining GLP-1 and GIP resulted in significantly greater weight loss rather than mimicking GLP-1 on its own.

In the SURMOUNT-5 trial, Mounjaro came out as a clear winner over Wegovy. After 72 weeks, Mounjaro caused an average weight loss of 20.2% of body weight compared to 13.7% for Wegovy.

How effective is Mounjaro?

In the SURMOUNT 4 trial, participants lost as much as 20.9% in 36 weeks when taking the highest tolerated dose of tirzepatide (10 or 15 mg).

Those who switched to a placebo after 36 weeks, gained back 14% of the weight they had lost, while those who continued using tirzepatide lost an additional 5.5% of their weight over the next 52 weeks.

Who can get Mounjaro on the NHS at the moment?

As of now, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is not routinely prescribed on the NHS for weight loss, however it is available for people with type 2 diabetes to help manage blood sugar levels.

A recent news update from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) stated that a phased launch for tirzepatide has been set out by NHS England.

Phased rollout for Mounjaro on the NHS

Currently, Mounjaro is not widely available on the NHS for weight loss, however, NHS England has proposed a phased rollout of the medication for obesity.

This new initiative, outlined in an application to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), aims to provide Mounjaro to individuals who will benefit the most, starting with those who have severe obesity and multiple weight-related health conditions.

The phased rollout will prioritise individuals with the greatest clinical need – including those with a BMI of 40 kg/m² or more and at least three obesity-related health problem, such as high blood pressure, dyslipidaemia, obstructive sleep apnoea, or cardiovascular disease.

Expansion of phased rollout of Mounjaro

After the initial phase, the eligibility criteria will be expanded to those with a BMI of more than 40 and two weight-related health conditions, and eventually to those with one weight-related health problem.

Mounjaro will be provided as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet and exercise support. The medication may be offered in either primary or secondary care, where a multidisciplinary team (MDT) of health professionals, including a dietitian, psychologist, and physical activity instructor, will work together to provide holistic care.

Can I get Mounjaro for weight loss from my GP?

At the moment you cannot get Mounjaro for weight loss from your GP.  NICE has expressed that the initial availability will be slow, with only specialist weight-management services offering the drug to eligible patients initially.

How many people will be eligible to receive Mounjaro on the NHS?

In a BBC article, it was revealed that the NHS is planning to test and develop a range of community-based services and digital technologies to provide Mounjaro to nearly a quarter of a million people over the next three years.

While this is undoubtedly a significant step forward, the BBC article also highlighted the concern that the rollout could take as long as 12 years for everyone to gain access to Mounjaro.

The NHS believes that up to 3.4 million could benefit from the weight-loss inducing effects of Mounjaro, but it could up to 12 years for everyone to have access to it.

So, to avoid overwhelming GPs with requests for Mounjaro for weight loss, the phased roll out has been proposed.

How can I get Mounjaro weight loss today?

Even though Mounjaro is not freely available on the NHS, you can get it prescribed privately by reputable sources, such as Medical Mojo.

You will be asked to complete a short 3 minute health questionnaire to determine if you are a suitable candidate. This short assessment will be reviewed by a licensed medical professional who will determine whether Mounjaro is a suitable option for you.

Once approved, the medication will be sent directly to your home, along with weight loss support materials to help you manage your progress.

So, if you cannot wait for the roll out, complete the Mounjaro health questionnaire or contact us for your FREE Mounjaro weight-loss consultation.

Who can get Mounjaro on a private prescription?

Mounjaro is now approved for adult patients with a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher (obesity), as well as those with a BMI between 27-30 kg/m² (overweight) who also have weight-related health issues, such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart conditions.

Mounjaro the future of weight loss in the UK

The introduction of Mounjaro on the NHS marks an exciting development in the fight against obesity.

In 2022 to 2023, 64.0% of adults aged 18 years and over in England were estimated to be overweight or living with obesity. This is similar to 2021 to 2022 (63.8%) but there has been an upward trend since 2015 to 2016 (61.2%).

Without effective weight loss tools like Mounjaro, this public health crisis could quickly spiral out of control.

However, as the NHS rolls out Mounjaro over the next several years, more and more people will have access to this life-changing treatment, improving their health and reducing the strain that obesity-related conditions place on the healthcare system.

If you’re interested in learning more about Mounjaro and its potential benefits for weight loss, contact us for your FREE Mounjaro weight-loss consultation.

Mounjaro on the NHS summary

Mounjaro is a proven weight loss medication that has shown significant results in clinical trials, including the SURMOUNT-4 study, where participants experienced an average weight loss of 20.9%.

While it’s not yet widely available through the NHS, a phased rollout is planned to make it accessible to more people over the next few years.

In the meantime, you can access Mounjaro through regulated online services like Medical Mojo, which offers this medication privately. Whether through the NHS or privately, Mounjaro provides a proven solution for individuals struggling with obesity and its associated health risks.

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Frequently asked questions about Mounjaro

What is the “fifth dose” of Mounjaro?

The “fifth dose” refers to the small amount of medication left in the Mounjaro pen after administering the four recommended doses. Mounjaro pens come pre-filled with enough medication for four doses, but some users may mistakenly think there’s an additional dose left in the pen, often due to the small buffer of liquid that remains. This leftover liquid is not intended to be used as a fifth dose.

Can I use the extra liquid in the pen as a fifth dose?

It’s not recommended to use the extra liquid as a fifth dose. The leftover liquid is not measured for dosage, and using it could result in an inaccurate amount of medication being administered. This can lead to an overdose or underdose, both of which may increase the risk of side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Why can’t I use the remaining liquid in the pen for a fifth dose?

The extra liquid in the Mounjaro pen, known as a buffer, ensures that the pen dispenses four full doses. However, this liquid is not part of the prescribed dosage and could contain too much or too little tirzepatide, which can cause unintended side effects. Using it could also potentially damage the pen, rendering it unusable.

What happens if I use the fifth dose from the Mounjaro pen?

Using the remaining liquid in the pen could result in the following risks:

• Inconsistent dosage leading to possible underdose or overdose.
• Increased risk of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation.
• Damage to the pen, causing it to no longer work properly.

Is it safe to attempt to use the fifth dose?

No, it’s not safe to attempt to use the leftover liquid as the fifth dose. It’s important to follow the recommended dosing guidelines, and if you have concerns about how much medication is left in the pen, speak to your healthcare provider. Using Mounjaro correctly ensures its effectiveness and reduces the likelihood of unwanted side effects.

What should I do if I accidentally use the fifth dose?

If you’ve accidentally used the extra liquid in the pen, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss any potential risks and next steps. They may suggest monitoring for side effects or adjusting your treatment plan.

What should I do if I’m unsure whether I’ve used the correct dose of Mounjaro?

If you’re unsure about your Mounjaro dosage or how to use the pen correctly, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for assistance. They can guide you on how to properly administer your medication and clarify any doubts you may have.

For more information about how to use Mounjaro safely and effectively, visit our blog on Mounjaro dosage guidelines.

Is Mounjaro available on the NHS?

Currently, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is not widely available on the NHS for weight loss. However, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended a phased rollout for Mounjaro, beginning in 2024, for those with severe obesity and weight-related health conditions. The rollout will prioritize patients with the greatest clinical need, such as those with a BMI over 40 and associated health problems like heart disease, diabetes, or sleep apnoea.

Who is eligible to receive Mounjaro on the NHS?

Mounjaro will initially be available for patients with a BMI of over 40, and at least three weight-related health conditions, such as:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Dyslipidaemia (abnormal cholesterol or fat levels)
• Obstructive sleep apnoea
• Cardiovascular disease (heart or blood vessel conditions)

After this phase, it will be offered to people with a BMI of more than 40 and two weight-related health conditions, and later, to people with one weight-related health issue.

When will Mounjaro be available on the NHS?

The phased rollout of Mounjaro is scheduled to begin in 2024. However, it may take several years before the treatment becomes available to all eligible patients. The NHS plans to evaluate and expand access over the next decade.

Can I get Mounjaro on the NHS if I am overweight but not obese?

Mounjaro will only be available for individuals with a BMI of over 40 and accompanied by significant weight-related health conditions. If you do not meet these criteria, Mounjaro will not be available through the NHS at this time.

How will Mounjaro be prescribed on the NHS?

Mounjaro will be prescribed through specialist weight management services once it becomes available. A comprehensive assessment will be made based on your BMI, health history, and any existing weight-related health issues to determine if Mounjaro is suitable for you.

Can I access Mounjaro privately?

Yes, Mounjaro is available privately in the UK through regulated online pharmacies. If you do not meet the NHS criteria or if the medication is not yet available through the NHS, you can consult with a licensed healthcare provider to obtain a private prescription, such as medicalmojo.co.uk.

How effective is Mounjaro for weight loss?

Clinical trials, including the SURMOUNT 1 trial, have shown that Mounjaro is highly effective for weight loss. The trial results indicate significant weight reduction in patients, with those using Mounjaro 15mg experiencing an average weight loss of 23.8 kg (52.5 lbs) over 72 weeks.

Will there be a waiting list for Mounjaro on the NHS?

Given the expected demand and limited initial availability, it is likely that there will be a waiting list for Mounjaro when it first becomes available through the NHS. Priority will be given to those who are most in need, based on their BMI and associated health conditions.

What are the side effects of Mounjaro?

Common side effects of Mounjaro include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. Most side effects subside as your body adjusts to the medication. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your healthcare provider if you experience persistent or severe side effects.

Can I stop Mounjaro once I’ve reached my target weight?

It is not recommended to stop Mounjaro immediately once you have reached your target weight. Stopping the medication can lead to a return of appetite and potentially result in weight regain. It’s important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for maintaining your weight loss.

For more information about Mounjaro and its availability on the NHS, visit Medical Mojo.

Who should not take Mounjaro?

Mounjaro should not be used by individuals who:

• Are allergic to tirzepatide or any of the other ingredients in Mounjaro.
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Are under 18 years of age.
• Have a history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2).
• Have experienced severe gastrointestinal issues, such as:
  • Gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Have severe kidney or liver problems.
• Have diabetic retinopathy.
• Have a family history of medullary thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia (MEN).

For a more detailed review, please check out our blog: Who should not take Mounjaro.

Can I drink alcohol while using Mounjaro?

It’s recommended to limit alcohol intake when using Mounjaro, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like nausea and dizziness. For more information, check out our blog: Can you drink alcohol while taking Mounjaro.

Can I take Mounjaro with levothyroxine?

Currently, there are no confirmed interactions between Mounjaro and levothyroxine, but it is essential to monitor your thyroid levels. For more details, visit our blog: Mounjaro and levothyroxine.

Does Mounjaro cause thyroid cancer?

While early studies in rodents raised concerns, there is little evidence suggesting Mounjaro causes thyroid cancer in humans. For more information, see our blog. Does Mounjaro cause thyroid cancer?

How much weight can I lose with Mounjaro?

In the SURMOUNT 1 trial, the following weight loss results were observed:

• Tirzepatide 5mg: 16.4 kg (36.1 lbs)
• Tirzepatide 10mg: 22.4 kg (49.4 lbs)
• Tirzepatide 15mg: 23.8 kg (52.5 lbs)

Does Mounjaro help with sleep apnoea?

Studies suggest that Mounjaro may help improve symptoms of sleep apnoea. For more details, visit our blog: Mounjaro and sleep apnoea.

Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?

Mounjaro has been linked to hair loss in about 5% of users, although it’s not clear whether this is due to the medication or rapid weight loss. For more information, check out our blog: Does Mounjaro cause hair loss.

How long do the side effects of Mounjaro last?

Side effects like nausea, bloating, and constipation typically improve within a few days or weeks as your body adjusts. For more details, visit our blog: How long do the side effects of Mounjaro last. Also, learn more about Mounjaro’s side effects and how to manage them in our blog on Mounjaro side effects.

Should I stop taking Mounjaro once I’ve reached my target weight?

Stopping Mounjaro after reaching your target weight may make it more challenging to maintain weight loss, potentially leading to weight regain due to increased appetite and unhealthy eating habits.

Can I start Mounjaro at 5 mg?

No, the starting dose of Mounjaro is 2.5 mg. It’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosing schedule to minimise side effects and allow your body to adjust.

Can I stay on 2.5 mg of Mounjaro?

It’s generally not recommended to stay on Mounjaro 2.5 mg long-term. After about 4 weeks, the dose should be increased to Mounjaro 5 mg. If you experience severe side effects, contact us to discuss alternatives or adjustments.

Can you lose weight on 2.5 mg of Mounjaro?

While some weight loss may occur at Mounjaro 2.5 mg, more significant results are typically seen at higher doses.

When do you move from 2.5 mg to 5 mg of Mounjaro?

After 4 weeks on Mounjaro 2.5 mg, you will typically increase to Mounjaro 5 mg. If you experience any side effects, consult us to discuss how to proceed with your dosage.

Can you take Mounjaro every 10 days?

No, Mounjaro should be taken weekly, on the same day and time each week. Taking it every 10 days could result in hunger between doses. You can stay on a lower maintenance dose while keeping the weekly schedule.

Which maintenance dose of Mounjaro produces the most weight loss?

The SURMOUNT 1 trial showed that the Mounjaro 15mg dose produced the most weight loss (23.8 kg over 72 weeks), followed by Mounjaro 10mg (22.4 kg) and Mounjaro 5mg (16.4 kg).

Achieving weight loss with Mounjaro and personalised support

A recent study highlighted the significant role personalised coaching plays in weight loss success. Participants who received one-on-one coaching saw improved results, thanks to ongoing support, progress tracking, and resources to keep them focused on their goals.

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Medical Mojo’s customised weight loss program

At Medical Mojo, we offer a personalised weight loss coaching service to help you reach your goals. Our program includes:

• Regular check-ins by our team of coaches and prescribers to track progress and maintain motivation
• Expert advice to set realistic and achievable goals
• Tailored strategies to maximize your weight loss results

Simplifying your weight loss journey with Mounjaro

At Medical Mojo, we make it easy to start and maintain your weight loss plan:

• Mounjaro pens tailored to your needs
• Personalised coaching for ongoing support
• FREE needles and sharps bins to help you get started

Our coaching program is designed to empower and motivate you for long-term weight loss success.

Start your weight loss journey today with Medical Mojo

Let Medical Mojo help you achieve your weight loss goals. With expert guidance, individualised plans, and the right resources, successful weight loss has never been more achievable.

Take the first step today and see how we can support your path to a healthier, happier you.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

References:

• BBC News. (2024, December 5). A new weight-loss jab will be rolled out on the NHS in England – but it could take 12 years for everyone to receive it. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx2y5zl99vro
• ClinicalTrials.gov. (2021). SURMOUNT-1: Tirzepatide for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetic Obese Individuals. Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov.
• ClinicalTrials.gov. (2024). A Study of Tirzepatide (LY3298176) in Participants With Obesity or Overweight for the Maintenance of Weight Loss (SURMOUNT-4) (NCT04660643). U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04660643.
• ClinicalTrials.gov. (2024). A Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of Tirzepatide in Patients with Obesity (NCT05822830). U.S. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05822830.
• Coskun T, Sloop KW, Loghin C, Alsina-Fernandez J, Urva S, Bokvist KB, et al. LY3298176, a novel dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus: from discovery to clinical proof of concept. Mol Metab. 2018;18:3–14. doi: 10.1016/j.molmet.2018.09.009.
• Government of the United Kingdom. (2024). Obesity profile: Short statistical commentary, May 2024. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/update-to-the-obesity-profile-on-fingertips/obesity-profile-short-statistical-commentary-may-2024#:~:text=Prevalence%20of%20overweight%20and%20obesity,61.2%25)%20(Figure%201)
• Jastreboff, A.M., Aronne, L.J., Ahmad, N.N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M.C. and Stefanski, A., 2022. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), pp.205-216.
• MHRA, 2023. MHRA authorises diabetes drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management and weight loss. GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-authorises-diabetes-drug-mounjaro-tirzepatide-for-weight-management-and-weight-loss [Accessed 30 Nov. 2024].
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2024, October 3). Consultation on NHS England proposals for a phased launch of obesity injection. Retrieved from https://www.nice.org.uk/news/articles/consultation-on-nhs-england-proposals-for-a-phased-launch-of-obesity-injection
• Sinha R, Papamargaritis D, Sargeant JA, Davies MJ. Efficacy and Safety of Tirzepatide in Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity Management. J Obes Metab Syndr. 2023 Mar 30;32(1):25-45. doi: 10.7570/jomes22067. Epub 2023 Feb 8. PMID: 36750526; PMCID: PMC10088547.
• U.S. National Library of Medicine. (2024). A Study of Tirzepatide (LY3298176) in Participants With Obesity or Overweight for the Maintenance of Weight Loss (SURMOUNT-4). Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04109599