Weight Loss Medication Mounjaro® – What Patients Need to Know

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We’ve received a number of queries about Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)

You might have seen recent news coverage about the NHS making Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) available via GPs to treat obesity. We’ve been receiving lots of phone calls and enquiries—and we want to address them clearly here.

🏥 What you need to know right now

  • GPs are not prescribing it yet in Birmingham & Solihull. Although NHS England’s new policy took effect on 23 June 2025, local GP prescribing isn’t possible until new models are introduced by the Integrated Care Board (ICB) in our area
  • Initial availability is coming in autumn 2025 through a locality-based pathway, not via routine GP appointments
  • Access will be very limited. It’s only available to adults (18+) with a BMI over 40 plus at least four of the following conditions: type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obstructive sleep apnoea or dyslipidaemia. A lower BMI threshold applies for patients from South Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African/Caribbean and other specified ethnic backgrounds

✅ What this means for you

  • Please do not contact us to request Mounjaro® yet—we cannot prescribe it until the local service is in place (most likely autumn 2025)
  • If you meet eligibility criteria, your GP will contact you directly after records review—no need to get in touch.
  • When available, treatment will include wraparound support, including dietary advice and physical activity coaching, as recommended by NICE

📩 What to do next

  • No need to make a GP appointment for this treatment right now.
  • If eligible, we will contact you directly in the coming months.
  • In the meantime, you can still access non-specialist weight management support, such as the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme or your local lifestyle services.

If you feel strongly that your individual case warrants attention before the rollout begins, you may raise your concerns by contacting:

NHS Birmingham and Solihull ICB
Patient Experience & Complaints Team
Alpha Tower, 8th Floor, Suffolk Street Queensway, Birmingham B1 1TT
Email: bsol.patientexperience@nhs.net

We understand this may be disappointing if you were hoping for immediate access—but please rest assured we’re working with the ICB to set up a fair, safe service that includes necessary health support. We’ll update this page and let you know as soon as things are ready.

Thank you for your understanding and patience.