NHS Mounjaro Eligibility Calculator

Find out if you might qualify for NHS-funded Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and how much you could save compared to private treatment.

£2,282
Potential annual savings
5
Quick questions
30s
To complete
Question 1 of 5 20% complete

1. Do you have a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes?

Mounjaro is currently only available on the NHS for type 2 diabetes management, not for weight loss alone.

How Does NHS Mounjaro Work?

🏥 NHS Tier 3 Programme

Mounjaro is available through the NHS Specialist Weight Management Service (Tier 3). This is a 2-year programme that includes medical supervision, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support alongside your medication.

💊 Prescription Access

Once approved by a specialist weight management service, you'll receive regular prescriptions for Mounjaro. The medication is administered via weekly injections using pre-filled pens, starting at 2.5mg and gradually increasing.

💷 Cost Savings

NHS prescriptions cost £9.90/month (or free with exemption). Private treatment costs £150-300/month. Over 2 years, NHS patients save £2,000-7,000 compared to private treatment.

Complete NHS Mounjaro Eligibility Criteria

You Must Meet ONE of These BMI Requirements:

Option 1: BMI ≥35

BMI of 35 or higher, regardless of other health conditions

Option 2: BMI ≥30 + Health Condition

BMI of 30-34.9 with at least one weight-related health condition:

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Prediabetes (HbA1c 42-47 mmol/mol)
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • High cholesterol (dyslipidemia)
  • Obstructive sleep apnoea
  • Cardiovascular disease
Option 3: Lower BMI for Certain Ethnicities

For people from Black African, African-Caribbean, or South Asian backgrounds, thresholds are 2.5 points lower (BMI ≥32.5 alone, or BMI ≥27.5 with health conditions)

⚠️ Additional Requirements

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must have tried other weight loss methods (diet, exercise) without success
  • Must be willing to participate in the full 2-year Tier 3 programme
  • No contraindications (pregnancy, certain medical conditions)

NHS vs Private: 2-Year Cost Comparison

BEST VALUE

NHS Prescription

£238
2-year total cost
  • ✅ £9.90/month prescription
  • ✅ Free with exemption
  • ✅ Specialist support included
  • ✅ Nutritional guidance
  • ✅ 2-year programme

Private Treatment

£4,800
2-year average cost
  • ❌ £200/month average
  • ⚠️ No exemptions available
  • ✅ Faster access (1-3 days)
  • ⚠️ Support varies by provider
  • ✅ No waiting list
💰 Potential Savings with NHS Prescription
£4,562 over 2 years

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get NHS Mounjaro after being referred?

Wait times vary by region, but typically range from 8-16 weeks from your GP referral to receiving your first prescription. Some areas have longer waiting lists due to high demand. Once approved, your prescription will be ongoing for up to 2 years.

Is this calculator accurate for determining my NHS eligibility?

This calculator is based on official NHS eligibility criteria as of January 2025. However, final eligibility decisions are made by NHS specialists who will consider your full medical history. Use this tool as a guide, but always consult your GP for definitive advice.

Can I get NHS Mounjaro if I'm already using private treatment?

Yes! If you meet NHS eligibility criteria, you can request a GP referral even while on private treatment. Once approved for NHS prescription, you can switch from private to NHS supply. Many patients start privately to avoid waiting lists, then transition to NHS when approved.

What happens if my BMI drops below 35 during treatment?

Once you're approved for the 2-year NHS programme, you'll typically continue treatment even if your BMI decreases. The goal is weight loss! Your specialist will monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed, but dropping below 35 BMI won't automatically disqualify you from continuing.

Are there any regions in the UK where NHS Mounjaro isn't available?

NHS Mounjaro is approved across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, access to Tier 3 Weight Management Services varies by region. Some areas have limited capacity and longer waiting lists. Contact your GP to find out availability in your specific NHS trust.

Can I use this calculator if I'm under 18?

NHS Mounjaro is only approved for adults aged 18 and over. If you're under 18, speak to your GP about alternative weight management programmes available through the NHS for young people.