Posted on 27 June, 2025

Following recent media coverage, we’ve seen a significant increase in patient enquiries about Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and other weight management injections.

These medications are currently being rolled out in phases under NHS England’s national programme. Strict eligibility criteria apply, and only certain patients can be considered during each phase.

 Patients should note:

  • Responsibility for this roll out has been delegated to ICBs and we await further details from NHS Somerset to be able to deliver to cohort one eligible patients. Until such time as this is confirmed, we are unable to prescribe the medication;
  • We are unable to prescribe Mounjaro or similar medications for weight loss outside of the below NHS guidelines; and
  • If you are not eligible, we encourage all patients to continue engaging with existing weight management support, including the NHS 12 week weight loss plan – https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/lose-weight/

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility depends on your BMI, ethnic background, and the presence of certain health conditions (known as comorbidities). The rollout is happening in three cohorts:

Cohort 1 – From 23 June 2025

  • BMI of 40 or higher, or 37.5 or higher if you are from a South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean background
  • Plus at least 4 of the following conditions:
  • High blood pressure (on treatment)
  • High cholesterol (on statins or similar medication)
  • Obstructive sleep apnoea
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Type 2 diabetes

 

Cohort 2 – From June 2026 (exact date to be confirmed)

  • BMI of 35 or higher, or 32.5 or higher if from an eligible ethnic background (as above)
  • Plus at least 4 of the same listed conditions as above

 

Cohort 3 – From April 2027 (exact date to be confirmed)

  • BMI of 40 or higher, or 37.5 or higher if from an eligible ethnic background
  • Plus at least 3 of the same listed conditions as above

 

For more information, please visit NHS Somerset here; Weight Management & Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for patients and public – NHS Somerset ICB

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.