GPs prescribing Mounjaro
Clarification on NHS Access to Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
We are aware that recent media coverage has reported the availability of Mounjaro through the NHS.
However, it is essential to understand that access is strictly limited and not available for general or cosmetic weight loss purposes.
You may be eligible only if you meet all of the following criteria:
- Aged 18 years or older
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 40+, or 37.5+ if you are from a Black, Asian or other minority ethnic background
- Diagnosed with four or more weight-related health conditions, such as:
- Type II Diabetes
- High Blood Presssure (Hypertension)
- Heart Disease
- Sleep Apnoea, or similar conditions
Help Us Prioritise Medical Need
Do not use online request forms or telephone lines to request weight-loss medication unless you meet the full criteria.
Find out more here on the South East London ICS website. Please note: the SE London policy is the same as the NE London policy, at the moment.
Women of childbearing age
In recent months, we have seen a growing number of patients choosing to start GLP-1 analogues such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) through private providers. These medications are often used for weight management or diabetes, and many people are accessing them independently of NHS care.
As a GP practice, our priority is your safety and wellbeing. It is important that women of childbearing age who are starting GLP-1 medications are aware of a potential interaction that could affect their contraception.
Why Is This Important?
GLP-1 analogues, including Mounjaro, can slow down the movement of food and medication through the stomach and gut. This is known as delayed gastric emptying. While this can support blood sugar control and weight loss, it also means that oral medications — including the contraceptive pill — may not be absorbed as effectively.
This may reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill and increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.
What Should You Do?
If you are a woman of childbearing age and have started or are considering starting a GLP-1 analogue such as Mounjaro:
- Book a medication review with your GP or clinical pharmacist.
It is important to review any current medications, especially hormonal contraception, to ensure you are protected and safe.
- Consider alternative or additional methods of contraception.
In some cases, a switch to a non-oral contraceptive method (such as the implant, injection, or coil) may be advised.
- Let your healthcare provider know about any privately prescribed medications.
Even if you have accessed the medication outside of the NHS, your GP practice needs to have a full picture to provide safe and appropriate care.
Our Commitment to You
We understand that many patients are taking proactive steps to manage their health and weight. However, medications such as Mounjaro are powerful and can have wide-ranging effects. We encourage all our patients — especially women of reproductive age — to have open and honest discussions with their healthcare team to ensure that their care is coordinated and safe.
