Mounjaro injections to help reduce weight loss are now available on the NHS from today
Around 220,000 people with “greatest need” are expected to receive Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide through the NHS over the next three years.
In the first year of the programme, the drug will be offered to people with a body mass index (BMI) score of over 40 who have at least four other health problems linked to obesity, such as type 2 diabetes; high blood pressure; heart disease; and obstructive sleep apnoea.
It is estimated that around 1.5 million people are already taking the drug in the UK through specialist weight loss services or via private prescription
Dr Claire Fuller, from NHS England, said: “This is an important next step in the rollout of weight loss drugs, with community-based services now able to offer this treatment from today.
“We urgently need to address rising levels of obesity and prioritise support for those who are experiencing severe ill health – and greater access to weight loss drugs will make a significant difference to the lives of those people.
