NHS Mounjaro Access Explained: Who Qualifies and How to Apply
Mounjaro is a newly approved medicine for the UK National Health Service (NHS) to help people with severe obesity and related health problems. This article will help you find out how to get Mounjaro from the NHS.
NHS Provision of Mounjaro
From June 2025, the NHS began a phased rollout of tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) following approval by NICE. Access is initially limited to adults with the greatest clinical need, meaning those with very high BMI and multiple obesity-related health conditions. Distribution is managed through specialist Tier 3 weight-management services, with some GP practices also piloting direct prescribing in partnership with local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs).
NHS mounjaro Eligibility Requirements
NHS eligibility is defined in stages:
Cohort 1 (2025 launch)
BMI ≥ 40 (≥ 37.5 for certain ethnic groups)
At least 4 of 5 comorbidities: type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnoea, or dyslipidaemia
Cohort 2 (around mid-2026)
BMI 35–39.9 (≥ 32.5 for higher-risk ethnic groups)
At least 4 comorbidities
Cohort 3 (around 2027)
BMI ≥ 40 (≥ 37.5)
At least 3 comorbidities
All prescriptions must be part of a wraparound support program, combining medical treatment with lifestyle, diet, and physical activity guidance.
Mounjaro Dosages and Suitability
| Dosage | Typical Use | Suitability Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 mg | Introductory dose | Usually prescribed for the first 4 weeks to allow the body to adjust and minimize side effects. |
| 5 mg | Step-up dose | Commonly used after tolerance is established; beginning of active weight-loss effect. |
| 7.5 mg | Intermediate dose | Suitable for patients who respond to 5 mg but require stronger appetite and weight control. |
| 10 mg | Higher therapeutic dose | Prescribed when additional weight reduction is clinically needed. |
| 12.5 mg | Advanced dose | Used for patients progressing from 10 mg with good tolerance and continued need for weight loss. |
| 15 mg | Maximum dose | Reserved for patients requiring the highest level of clinical benefit under specialist monitoring. |
How to Apply NHS mounjaro
Update your health records: Make sure your GP has recent weight, height, and BMI data.
Confirm comorbidities: Ensure conditions like type 2 diabetes or sleep apnoea are documented in your medical record.
Consult your GP: Ask for a referral to a Tier 3 weight-management service, or check if your GP practice participates in direct prescribing.
Undergo assessment: A multidisciplinary team will evaluate your health, lifestyle, and readiness for treatment.
Join a support program: If approved, you will receive Mounjaro as part of a structured care pathway with dietary and lifestyle guidance.
Follow local rollout updates: Check with your GP or ICB for when the treatment becomes available in your area.
Conclusion:
Mounjaro is one of the most effective weight-management medicines approved for NHS use, but access is carefully phased and limited to those with severe obesity and multiple health conditions. The process begins with your GP and leads into specialist services, where treatment is combined with lifestyle support to ensure safety and long-term success.