Weight Loss Medications Available on the NHS

If you are struggling with your weight, certain medications may be available on the NHS to help. These medications work by reducing hunger, making you feel fuller for longer, and supporting weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

What Medications Are Available?

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved two medications—tirzepatide and semaglutide — to help people manage overweight and obesity. These treatments offer new options for people who have struggled to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.

Medicine Names: What They Mean

  • Semaglutide is the drug name.
  • The brand name for semaglutide, when it is used for weight loss, is Wegovy
  • Semaglutide is also sold under the brand name of Ozempic when it is used to treat diabetes.
  • In the same way, Tirzepatide is the drug name, and its brand name is Mounjaro.
  • So, Mounjaro = Tirzepatide – they are just different names used for the same medicine.

Who Can Get These Medications?

You may be eligible if:

  • You have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 or higher and a weight-related health condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
  • In some cases, if your BMI is 30 or higher, you may still qualify if weight loss is necessary for your health.

How Are These Treatments Being Rolled Out?

Our Integrated Care Board (ICB) is following expert advice to ensure weight management treatments are:

✅   Safe – Only offered when proven to work and suitable for the patient.
✅   Fair – Available to those who meet NHS criteria.
✅   Effective – Used alongside healthy lifestyle changes for the best results.

How This Affects You

  • Wegovy and Mounjaro are being introduced gradually through a phased NHS rollout. See specific information on the Mounjaro rollout.
  • Access will expand over time, starting with specialist weight management services.
  • Your GP or specialist will assess whether a treatment is right for you.
  • Private options are available but these medications would not be NHS-funded if purchased from a pharmacy.

Read more on this topic from the Medicines & Healthcare Regulatory Products Agency

What Else Do I Need to Know?

  • These medications work best alongside a healthy diet and exercise.
  • They are not a quick fix—your doctor will assess whether they are suitable for long-term use.
  • If you think you may be eligible, speak to your GP or healthcare provider for advice on the best options for you.

For more details, you can read the full NICE guidance here:

 

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