Weight management

Mounjaro® on the NHS – managing weight loss with tirzepatide

There has been a lot of media attention given to the weight loss drug being available on the NHS. In order to qualify, a patients must have a BMI of 40 or more, and Four of the following:

• type 2 diabetes
• hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease
• Obstructive sleep apnoea
• Dyslipidaemia

Also, a patient must agree to NHS Gloucestershire’s weight loss support and wrap-around care programme which includes a diet and exercise programme to help improve health. NHS Gloucester is developing these support services.

We recognise it can be difficult for some people living with obesity to access the support they feel they need and that those most likely to benefit from this medication may wish to access it as soon as possible.

We are committed to updating the public on related service developments as they occur.

In the meantime, we ask that you don’t, yet, contact your GP to ask for tirzepitide (Mounjaro®) while treatment arrangements are being finalised. You can visit the NHS Gloucestershire website for further information about tirzepatide: https://www.nhsglos.nhs.uk/your-health-services/healthy-communities/weight-loss-medication/

What support is currently available?

Live Well advice is available on the NHS Gloucestershire website. If your GP identifies you as being at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, they may offer you the opportunity of taking part in the Healthier You: NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.

We also know that there will be people who do not qualify for weight loss medication, which may cause disappointment and/or exacerbate new and existing mental health and wellbeing issues. In these cases you may find NHS Talking Therapies helpful.

• Slimming World

  You’ll find delicious recipe and menu ideas at your local group, along with all the help you need to get started and reach your target weight.
  
  Website
  Slimming World

• Weight Watchers

  Meetings, online or a little bit of both. They’ve got options and support, whatever your lifestyle.
  
  Website
  Weight Watchers

• BMI calculator

  The body mass index (BMI) is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy.
  
  Website
  NHS: BMI healthy weight calculator