Weight Loss Injections – NHS Eligibility Criteria

You may have heard in the news that GPs can now prescribe weight loss injections, such as Mounjaro, on the NHS. While this is correct, eligibility is very limited due to strict NHS guidelines. 

To help patients avoid unnecessary appointments and disappointment, please read the information below before requesting an appointment to discuss. 

Eligibility Criteria for NHS Prescribing of weight loss injections 

To qualify on the NHS, you must meet the following criteria: 

1. BMI over 40( BMI over 37.5 for people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean family backgrounds)  
   – You can check your BMI using the NHS BMI calculator, if you know your height and weight. 
   – Your height and weight will also be checked at your appointment, so please provide accurate information. 

AND 

2. At least four of the following five health conditions must be diagnosed and recorded in your medical history: 
   • Hypertension (high blood pressure requiring medication) 
   • Obstructive sleep apnoea, confirmed by a sleep clinic 
   • Type 2 diabetes 
   • Cardiovascular disease (including heart disease, stroke or vascular disease) 
   • Hypercholesterolaemia (high cholesterol) 

ALTERNATIVELY 

3. BMI over 40 ( BMI over 37.5 for people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean family backgrounds) and at least one of the following: 
   • Patients requiring urgent weight loss for organ transplant 
   • Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) requiring frequent lumbar punctures and/or with visual compromise

What is happening in the local area

BOB ICB has confirmed that these medications are not routinely available in primary care and should only be accessed as part of a comprehensive, specialist-led programme. GPs are not permitted to prescribe these injections outside of this pathway. 

There is no need to contact your GP practice about weight loss injections.  If you are eligible, the healthcare team will get in touch with you directly. Though as the treatment is being phased in this may take a little time.