Information for patients

• Weight management injections
• Treatments for obesity

The NHS in England currently prescribes weight loss medications to patients living with obesity who meet specific criteria. Detailed information about these medications can be found in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines [NG246].

In December 2024, NICE published technology appraisal [TA1026], recommending tirzepatide (Mounjaro®), a novel dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, be used for managing overweight and obesity in patients with weight related comorbidities. This medication is to be used alongside a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity in adults. It can be prescribed in both primary and secondary care settings. Previously, GLP-1 receptor agonists (Wegovy® and Saxenda®) could only be prescribed in secondary care for the management of obesity.

The inclusion of tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) in the weight management pathway requires new services and training for healthcare professionals. NICE has agreed that a funding variation is required to facilitate a phased introduction of delivery to eligible cohorts, manage the demand on primary care services and train healthcare professionals. NICE has directed NHS England to prioritise a cohort of 220,000 patients, based on clinical need, over the first 3 years of a 12 year rollout. Access to the medication will be provided in combination with a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity, as outlined in the final NICE guidance. A phased approach allows NHS England to build an evidence base for sustainable and effective delivery of weight management services.

Wraparound care

Wraparound care is provided alongside tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) when prescribed for managing obesity in primary care settings (such as by your GP).

Wraparound care consists of 2 distinct components that are essential for safe prescribing:

• clinical support by your prescribing healthcare professional for regular medicine reviews
• behavioural support delivered through the NHS Behavioural Support for Obesity Prescribing Programme or your local wraparound care service

Access further information on wraparound support alongside prescribing in primary care settings.

Interim commissioning guidance

The interim commissioning guidance outlines NHS England’s approach to implementing this medication into the weight management pathway. The full guidance will be issued after an evaluation by NICE of the initial 3 year rollout.

Contact us

If you have any general queries about the Healthier You Programme, please email england.healthier-you@nhs.net

The Healthier You Behavioural Support for Obesity Prescribing Programme is delivered across England by a range of providers. Find contact details for the provider of the programme in your local area.