UPDATE ON WEIGHT LOSS MEDICATION

Posted on:

GPs are currently unable to prescribe Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) for weight loss in Kent and Medway. Here’s the latest:

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is a weekly injection that helps reduce appetite, slows stomach emptying, and controls blood sugar. It’s approved for people with specific obesity-related health conditions but is not yet available through GPs.

Why can’t GPs prescribe it?

Mounjaro requires a Behavioural Support for Obesity Prescribing (BSOP) programme, which is still being set up in Kent and Medway. Until this service is available, GPs cannot prescribe it.

Who will be eligible?

Mounjaro will be offered in stages over three years to those at highest clinical risk, including individuals with:

  • A very high BMI (typically ≥40 or ≥35 for some ethnic groups)
  • At least four obesity-related conditions, such as:
    • Type 2 diabetes
    • High blood pressure
    • Heart disease
    • Obstructive sleep apnoea
    • Abnormal cholesterol levels

Priority will be given to those with the most severe health risks, as assessed by specialists.

What can you do now?

Access NHS weight management support, including tailored healthy eating and physical activity advice, through One You Kent.

www.kentcht.nhs.uk/service/one-you-kent/

Please do not contact the Practice about prescribing this medication yet. Thank you.