Strict guidelines implemented as GPs begin prescribing the weight loss injection

Mounjaro, a weight loss medication, is being made available through GP surgeries in England for individuals who meet very strict criteria starting today.

The medication, which is administered as an injection, helps users feel full and reduces food intake, potentially leading to a loss of 20% of their body weight. Initially, it will only be accessible to those with a BMI of 40 or higher (or 37.5 for those from minority ethnic backgrounds) who also have at least four of the following conditions: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and vascular disease, high cholesterol, and obstructive sleep apnoea.

The rollout of Mounjaro is intended to be gradual, with the first phase targeting those most in need. In the future, NHS England may expand access to include people with a BMI of 35 to 39.9 who have three out of five of the listed conditions.

The medicine also requires regular check-ups and "wrap-around" care such as exercise support and dietary advice. However, due to limited resources and training needed for the medicine's safe and effective use, not all patients who are eligible may receive it immediately. The Royal College of General Practitioners advises patience and recommends against approaching GPs unless individuals are certain they meet the criteria. Mounjaro is also available in specialist NHS weight loss clinics and can be bought privately. The health watchdog, NICE, will review the rollout and decide if it should be offered to more patients with obesity in the future. The situation in Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland may differ as health boards and governments in those regions make decisions on medication availability.

BBC News