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Tirzepatide (Mounjaro©) is a weight loss drug that was approved by the National Institute for Health and Care and Excellence (NICE) in the UK in December 2024.

NICE guidance on tirzepatide for managing overweight and obesity in adults

This type of weight loss medication works by mimicking gut hormones released by the body after eating, telling your brain you are full. It should only be used together with behavioural support which includes a reduced-calorie diet, increased physical activity and psychological support.

Can I be prescribed Tirzepatide for weight loss?

We know that it can be difficult for some people living with obesity to access the support they need. We also understand that people who could benefit from tirzepatide would like to access it as soon as possible.

In Gloucestershire, we are following guidance from NHS England. NHS England has asked us to start prescribing to the people with most medical need and then prescribe to more people in a phased way, over several years.

We’re working as quickly as possible to set up new services to deliver this in Gloucestershire.

We’ll update this page and share information with local partners as soon as the new service starts. Please don’t contact your GP before we confirm the new service is available in your area, as they won’t be able to prescribe the medication to you at the moment.

We will work with the county’s healthcare services, including GP practices, community pharmacies, Public Health and the specialist weight management service, to make sure that people eligible for tirzepatide get the right care and support when they start the treatment to help them gain the greatest health benefits.

This will include healthy lifestyle programmes to help people to lose weight through changes to their diet, nutrition and physical activity.

How do I know if I’m eligible?

Based on the current guidelines, we expect around 200 people in Gloucestershire, who are living with obesity, to be able to access the drug in the first year.

To qualify for tirzepatide currently, you must have a BMI (Body Mass Index) greater or equal to 40 (this will be adjusted to reflect cultural variations) plus four or more of the following diagnosed health conditions:

  • type 2 diabetes
  • high blood pressure
  • heart disease
  • obstructive sleep apnoea
  • abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia)

What support is currently available to me?

  • 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 many people who do not qualify for weight loss medication, which may cause disappointment and/or exacerbate new and existing mental health and wellbeing issues. People may find NHS Talking Therapies helpful.