Please Note: Until this service is in place in Kent and Medway, it is not possible to prescribe tirzepatide (Mounjaro) in primary care.
From Monday, 23 June, people living with obesity will be able to be prescribed tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight loss purposes in primary care settings.
This does not mean prescriptions will be provided immediately. It means primary care settings can begin discussions with patients about whether tirzepatide is the right option to improve their health through weight loss.
According to NICE’s calculations, as part of its Technical Appraisal for tirzepatide, 3.4million patients in England would potentially be eligible for the drug, however the NHS does not have the services or existing resources to manage this number of people.
Therefore, the drug will be phased in gradually through a special agreement between NICE and the NHS in England, to make sure primary care services aren’t overwhelmed and can manage the extra demand safely.
This means that access will be prioritised for those with the greatest clinical need, as they would benefit most from the treatment.
Access to the drug must also be accompanied by a behavioural support for obesity prescribing service which will include support for people to make dietary changes and to increase physical activity.
To be prescribed accessing tirzepatide (Mounjaro) patients must have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 plus and four or more of the following diagnosed health conditions:
type 2 diabetes
high blood pressure
heart disease
obstructive sleep apnoea
abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia).
Both patient and clinician also have to agree it is the most appropriate option and the right treatment for them.
People with the highest health risks and who meet the clinical criteria will be prioritised.
NHS England estimate that between 700 and 800 people living in Kent and Medway will meet the necessary criteria of having a BMI (Body Mass Index) of over 40 and four of the specified diagnosed health conditions.
Mounjaro might not be clinically considered suitable for everyone and not everyone who meets the eligibility criteria will want to use it to support their weight loss. Other options are available, including weight loss programmes, which use tried and tested methods such as lifestyle changes and nutrition and physical activity advice.
https://www.kmhealthandcare.uk/your-health/weight-management/mounjaro-availability