Mounjaro Private Prescriptions UK

Jump to: Where can I get a private prescription? | How much does it cost? | Is there a waiting list? | Supply constraints and availability | Choosing the right provider | Mounjaro vs Wegovy comparison | NHS access criteria | Prescription renewal process | Frequently asked questions | Take home message

You can get a private Mounjaro prescription in the UK through regulated healthcare providers, with most people starting treatment within 1-2 weeks of applying.

Independent analyses suggest that less than 5% of eligible patients currently receive weight loss medications through NHS services, reflecting strict criteria and the phased cohort approach to implementation^1,2. This has led to significant growth in private prescribing as the main access route for Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

Research published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows Mounjaro helps people lose ~22% of their body weight over 12-18 months by reducing hunger and food cravings³.

NICE guidelines confirm these medications work best when combined with habit changes that help maintain results long-term⁴.

NHS vs private access: 2025 guidelines

Access Route	BMI required	Additional requirements	Typical wait	Regulatory framework
NHS	≥40 (or ≥37.5 certain ethnicities)	Must have four of five specific comorbidities: type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnoea, dyslipidaemia	12-18 months	NICE Technology Appraisal TA10264 & NHS England 2025 Cohort Guidance5
Private	≥30 (or ≥27 with health conditions)	Online health assessment compliant with GMC remote prescribing guidelines	1-2 weeks	MHRA Human Medicines Regulations 2012 (as amended 2024)

The NHS England interim commissioning guidance for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) acknowledges that implementation follows a phased approach, with initial criteria focused on patients at highest clinical risk⁵.

This tiered implementation means that many individuals who could potentially benefit from weight loss medication may not currently meet NHS eligibility thresholds.

Where can I get a private prescription of Mounjaro?

You have three primary options for accessing Mounjaro privately in the UK, each with different levels of support and oversight:

1. Comprehensive programmes like Second Nature that combine medication with registered dietitian support and habit-change coaching. These follow the NICE-recommended multidisciplinary support model⁴.

2. Online pharmacies that provide the medication with basic medical screening and limited ongoing support, regulated under MHRA’s Human Medicines Regulations.

3. Private GP clinics offering face-to-face consultations with traditional medical monitoring, following GMC guidelines for prescribing and medicine management.

Eligibility requirements, based on NICE guidance⁴ and Summary of Product Characteristics:

• BMI of 30 or higher (or 27+ with weight-related health conditions)
• Aged 18-75 years
• No contraindications as outlined in the medication’s label
• Commitment to lifestyle changes alongside medication

Medical contraindications (per Mounjaro SPC):

• Under 18 or over 75 years old
• Pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2
• History of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disorders
• Severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 ml/min/1.73m²)

The prescription process typically involves completing an online health questionnaire that’s reviewed by a GMC-registered prescriber, followed by an ID verification check to prevent fraud, as required by MHRA regulations.

How much does a private UK Mounjaro prescription cost?

Second Nature programme pricing (2025):

• New prices to be confirmed in October 2025 at the latest

This includes medication, delivery, medical oversight, and support from registered dietitians in line with NICE’s recommendations for ‘wraparound’ support⁴.

Medication-only providers typically charge:

• Prices have increased since September 2025 and are variable, but broadly the cost of the medication is between £200-£380 per month depending on the dose and the provider
• Some providers now offer coaching and other elements of support as an additional fee, rather than having a fixed cost of medication + support

According to data published in JMIR Formative Research by Richards et al. (2025), patients receiving comprehensive support alongside medication achieved 19.1% average weight loss⁶.

This average weight loss is ~3-6% more than achieved in the clinical trials on Wegovy where patients had minimal support alongside the medication, suggesting that Second Nature’s increased support help to optimise weight loss results on Wegovy.

Treatment duration considerations:

NICE guidance doesn’t specify a maximum treatment duration for GLP-1 medications⁴, but clinical practice typically involves:

• Initial 3-6 month assessment period
• Continuation if achieving ≥5% weight loss at 6 months
• Total treatment duration of 12-24 months for most patients

The total investment ranges from approximately £2,750-£7,200, depending on provider, duration, and level of support.

Is there a waiting list for Mounjaro prescriptions?

Current private provider situation (September 2025):

Based on current market conditions, there’s no significant waiting list for Mounjaro with most regulated private providers. Once your health assessment is approved by a qualified prescriber:

• Initial consultation: 1-5 business days
• Prescription processing: 2-3 business days
• Delivery: 1-5 business days
• Total timeline: Typically 7-14 days from application to receipt

NHS pathway (based on NHS England guidance⁵):

• Initial GP consultation and referral: 2-4 weeks
• Specialist weight management service assessment: 3-6 months
• Mandatory participation in tier 3 weight management programme: 6 months
• Treatment initiation if approved: 3-6 months
• Total timeline: 12-18 months average

NHS England data suggests that a limited number of NHS prescriptions for tirzepatide have been issued to date, primarily due to the restrictive eligibility criteria in the first phase of implementation⁵.

The Department of Health and Social Care has announced plans to expand specialist weight management services, but implementation timelines extend to 2027 with a phased cohort approach targeting highest-risk patients first⁵.

Supply constraints and availability

Current UK supply status (September 2025):

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) maintains a database of medicine shortages, which currently shows stable supply for all Mounjaro doses in the UK market. Most established providers have reliable access through:

• Direct relationships with multiple pharmaceutical wholesalers
• Allocation agreements with manufacturers
• Partnership with multiple pharmacy networks

Historical context:

In early 2024, the MHRA reported temporary supply constraints affecting higher doses (7.5 mg+), which were resolved by May 2024 following manufacturing capacity expansions.

Factors affecting future availability:

Several factors may impact future supply:

• Expanding NHS pilot programmes for weight management medications
• Manufacturing capacity constraints at global production facilities
• Regulatory changes to prescribing guidelines

When evaluating providers, enquire about:

• Their contingency plans for potential shortages
• Policies regarding dose substitutions if needed
• Communication protocols for supply disruptions

Consistent access is important as interruptions in treatment can affect progress and potentially increase side effects if stopping and restarting.

Choosing the right provider

When selecting a provider for Mounjaro, the evidence points to significant differences in both immediate results and long-term success based on the approach taken.

The medical evidence for comprehensive approaches:

Richards et al.’s 2025 study on Second Nature’s programme published in JMIR Formative Research demonstrated several key findings⁶:

• Participants receiving comprehensive support achieved 19.1% average weight loss vs 13-16% with medication alone
• 77.7% of supported participants achieved ≥10% weight loss

Provider comparison framework:

Support element	Comprehensive programmes	Medication-only providers	Clinical importance
Medical screening	GMC-registered prescribers with obesity medicine experience	Basic eligibility checks	Safety and appropriate patient selection
Nutritional support	Registered dietitians available 5 days/week	Basic guidance materials	Essential for muscle preservation during weight loss
Psychological support	Behavioural change specialists and peer groups	Minimal or none	Critical for addressing emotional eating patterns
Side effect management	Proactive protocols and coaching support	Reactive guidance if requested	Improves medication adherence and outcomes
Post-medication planning	Structured transition protocols	Limited or none	Prevents weight regain after stopping
Safety monitoring	Regular check-ins and progress tracking	Basic medical questionnaires	Required by GMC remote prescribing guidance

Regulatory considerations:

The General Medical Council’s guidelines on remote prescribing (updated 2024) specify that providers must ensure:

• Appropriate clinical assessment before prescribing
• Adequate monitoring arrangements
• Continuity of care
• Secure handling of patient information

When evaluating providers, verify they meet these regulatory requirements and have clear protocols for managing potential complications.

Mounjaro vs Wegovy comparison

Both medications have UK approval for weight loss, with Mounjaro (tirzepatide) showing slightly better results in clinical trials.

Head-to-head comparison based on clinical trials:

Metric	Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)	Wegovy (Semaglutide)	Clinical Significance
Average weight loss	15-22.5%3	12-16%	Mounjaro shows ~4-6% greater average weight reduction
≥15% weight loss	55-63% of patients	30-40% of patients	Substantially more patients achieve significant weight loss with Mounjaro
Mechanism of action	Dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist	GLP-1 agonist only	Additional GIP activation may explain enhanced efficacy
Dosing schedule	Weekly injection	Weekly injection	Similar patient experience
NHS availability	Extremely limited	Very limited	Both have similar access challenges on NHS
Side effect profile	Primarily gastrointestinal	Primarily gastrointestinal	Similar safety profiles with slightly higher GI events with Mounjaro

Clinical considerations:

Factors that might influence medication choice include:

• Previous response to similar medications
• Other conditions like diabetes (both approved for T2D)
• Individual tolerance of side effects
• Cost considerations (similar for most providers)

Both medications work through similar biological pathways, but Mounjaro’s additional GIP action appears to enhance weight loss effects.

Individual response varies, and some patients may respond better to one medication than the other regardless of average trial results.

NHS access criteria

Current NHS England criteria (September 2025):

Based on NICE Technology Appraisal TA1026 and NHS England’s 2025 Cohort Guidance, NHS prescribing of tirzepatide is currently restricted to patients who meet all of the following criteria^4,5:

• BMI of 40 kg/m² or above (or 37.5 kg/m² or above for people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean backgrounds)
• Must have four of these five weight-related comorbidities requiring medication:
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Hypertension
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Obstructive sleep apnoea
  • Dyslipidaemia
• Mandatory completion of a 6-month tier 3 weight management service programme
• Provision of ongoing specialist support throughout treatment

Regional variations and cohort approach:

NHS England has implemented a phased cohort approach to tirzepatide access⁵:

• Year 1 (2025): Only the highest-risk patients (meeting criteria above)
• Year 2-3 (2026-2027): Planned expansion to additional patient cohorts
• Regional Integrated Care Board (ICB) implementation varies significantly

The NHS Long Term Plan includes provisions for expanding weight management services by 2027, but current capacity remains extremely limited with priority given to those meeting the strict Year 1 cohort criteria⁵.

Prescription renewal process

Private Mounjaro prescriptions require regular review and renewal in line with GMC and MHRA guidelines for controlled medication management.

Typical renewal process:

Timeframe	Requirements	Regulatory basis
Monthly	• Weight update • Side effect monitoring • Basic health questionnaire	MHRA Human Medicines Regulations
3-Monthly	• Comprehensive health review • Progress assessment • Dose evaluation	GMC prescribing guidance
6-Monthly	• Full medication review • Risk-benefit reassessment • Treatment continuation decision	NICE guidance

According to NICE guidance, treatment should be continued only if the patient has lost at least 5% of their initial body weight at 6 months⁴.

Safety monitoring requirements:

Ongoing monitoring of specific parameters during treatment typically includes:

• Kidney function tests if history of renal impairment
• Pancreatic enzyme monitoring if abdominal pain occurs
• Blood pressure monitoring for those with hypertension
• Blood glucose monitoring for patients with diabetes

The renewal process differs between providers:

• Comprehensive programmes typically include integrated monitoring
• Medication-only services may require separate arrangements for tests
• All should comply with GMC remote prescribing standards

Frequently asked questions

How quickly can I get Mounjaro in the UK if I go private?

Most private providers can complete the assessment, prescribing, and delivery process within 7-14 days if you meet eligibility criteria. The timeline includes online assessment (1-2 days), prescriber review (1-3 days), and medication delivery (2-5 days).

Do I need a GP referral to get Mounjaro privately in the UK?

No, you don’t need a GP referral for private Mounjaro prescriptions. However, GMC guidelines recommend that private prescribers inform your NHS GP with your consent. This ensures your complete medical history is considered and prevents potential medication interactions.

What happens at a private Mounjaro consultation in the UK?

Private consultations typically involve:

• Comprehensive health questionnaire covering medical history
• Review of current medications and previous weight loss attempts
• Discussion of treatment expectations and potential side effects
• Explanation of monitoring requirements and follow-up process
• Identity verification to comply with MHRA regulations

Can I switch between Mounjaro and Wegovy?

Yes, switching between these medications is medically possible and sometimes recommended if you’re not responding well to one treatment.

Most specialists advise a brief washout period of 7 days when transitioning between GLP-1 medications. Your prescriber should assess your individual situation and adjust dosing appropriately.

How long can I stay on Mounjaro?

NICE guidance does not specify a maximum duration for GLP-1 medication treatment⁴. Most clinicians prescribe for 12-24 months, with regular reviews every 6 months to assess ongoing benefit. Long-term safety data now extends to 3 years with no new safety concerns identified.

Will the NHS eventually cover Mounjaro more broadly?

NHS England has announced plans to expand access to weight management medications through a phased cohort approach by 2027⁵.

However, budget constraints and capacity limitations mean private prescribing will likely remain the primary access route for most eligible patients in the near future.

What are the eligibility requirements for Mounjaro in the UK?

For private prescriptions, eligibility typically includes a BMI of 30 or higher (or 27+ with weight-related health conditions), being aged 18-75 years, having no contraindications as outlined in the medication’s Summary of Product Characteristics, and a commitment to lifestyle changes alongside medication.

What side effects should I expect with Mounjaro?

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including nausea, constipation, and diarrhoea. These typically improve within 4-8 weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.

Comprehensive support programmes provide strategies to manage these side effects effectively, which significantly improves the treatment experience.

Take home message

Private Mounjaro prescriptions are readily available in the UK, with most eligible patients able to start treatment within 1-2 weeks of applying through registered providers.

While NHS access remains extremely limited due to strict NICE criteria and the phased cohort approach, private options provide effective pathways for weight management support that align with regulatory requirements.

The evidence strongly suggests that comprehensive programmes combining medication with professional support yield significantly better outcomes than medication alone, both during treatment and after stopping.

When choosing a provider, consider not just the monthly cost but the level of support provided, as this substantially impacts both immediate results and long-term success rates.

Most importantly, view Mounjaro as a tool that works best when combined with sustainable lifestyle changes rather than as a standalone solution, an approach that aligns with both NICE guidance and clinical best practice.

References

1. Institute for Global Change. (2025). Anti-obesity medications: Faster, broader access can drive health and wealth in the UK

2. The King’s Fund. (2025). GLP-1 drugs: The NHS should roll them out at scale

3. Jastreboff, A.M., et al. (2022). Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205-216.

4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2024). Tirzepatide for managing overweight and obesity [TA1026]

5. NHS England. (2025). Weight Management Medications: Cohort Guidance 2025-2027

6. Richards, R., et al. (2025). A Remotely Delivered, Semaglutide-Supported Specialist Weight Management Program: 12-Month Outcomes from a Retrospective Service Evaluation. JMIR Formative Research, 9, e72577.

7. Wilding, J.P., et al. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 384(11), 989-1002.