Millions of Brits are battling obesity, a condition that significantly heightens the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, joint problems, cancer, gallbladder disease, pregnancy complications, mental health and breathing issues. Over the past year, weight loss injections have seen a surge in interest.
The Obesity Health Alliance (OHA) estimates that around 4.1 million people in England could benefit from Wegovy, a weight loss drug. Some argue that injectable weight loss treatments could be a big help for many, supporting them in tackling obesity and type 2 diabetes.
However, securing a prescription isn’t as simple as it sounds, with various factors determining eligibility on the NHS. Currently, only three NHS-approved weight loss drugs – orlistat, liraglutide, and semaglutide (known as Wegovy) – are available.
A fourth medicine, tripeptide (Mounjaro), is set to become available on the NHS in March next year. To receive a prescription for any of these treatments, certain criteria must be met.
The NHS has launched an online tool, which you can use below, to help determine if you qualify for these weight loss treatments, reports Surrey Live.
NHS weight loss medicine eligibility checker
The tool, based on current NHS guidelines, allows patients to check if they meet the eligibility criteria for weight loss medicines. It has been clinically reviewed by Dr Adam Abbs (MBBS FRCGP PGCCE FHEA), an NHS GP.
However, it’s crucial to understand that meeting the eligibility criteria outlined in the tool below doesn’t guarantee access to the injections. The tool is purely informational and should not replace professional medical advice.
Always consult with healthcare professionals who will consider your full medical history and individual circumstances. Do not attempt to acquire these medications without appropriate medical oversight.
Certain weight loss injections can be accessed through the NHS; however, your general practitioner is not authorised to prescribe them. You will need to be referred to a specialist in weight management, who will evaluate your eligibility and prescribe an appropriate medication.
If you’re dealing with underlying issues related to obesity, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea, your doctor might suggest additional tests or targeted treatments. Sometimes, they may also refer you to a specialist for further assistance.
What is Mounjaro, and who can get it?
Mounjaro is expected to be available on the NHS by March 2025 for individuals with significant clinical needs. These include those with a BMI of 35 or higher and at least one additional weight-related health issue.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has revealed a 12-year phased rollout of Mounjaro’s active component, tripeptide – meaning it could take over a decade for everyone to receive it. According to the proposed plan, nearly 220,000 individuals will be able to receive the injection within the first three years of its introduction.
To use Mounjaro on the NHS, you must have a body mass index (BMI) over 40kg/m2. You must also experience at least three of the following weight-related conditions: Following the initial phase, tripeptide will be made available to individuals with the same BMI but dealing with two weight-related concerns and subsequently to those with one weight-related issue.
The NHS will charge £122.00 monthly for Mounjaro at the highest maintenance dose of 15mg weekly. If you receive a prescription for Mounjaro through the NHS and do not qualify for free prescriptions, you will probably have to pay the regular prescription fee of £9.90 for each item.
What about Wegovy and Saxenda (liraglutide)?
Wegovy can be accessed through the NHS if you qualify for semaglutide prescriptions. The active component of Wegovy, semaglutide, was introduced in the UK on September 4, 2023, and has been available on the NHS following NICE guidelines since then.
Saxenda is currently not available for long-term use, but its active ingredient, liraglutide, can still be accessed through the NHS for weight loss. Just like Wegovy, you’ll need a referral from your GP to a specialist weight management service to get a prescription.
Is Ozempic available on the NHS, too?
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Ozempic is offered through the NHS as a treatment for type 2 diabetes. However, it’s not prescribed for weight loss as it’s not a weight loss drug.
This is because it contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Wegovy, but Ozempic is specifically designed to manage blood sugar levels and is provided in lower dosages for that purpose.
How to use NHS weight loss injections:
Weight loss injections provided by the NHS are part of a group of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, including options like Wegovy and liraglutide.
These injections are self-administered and can be taken either weekly or daily, based on your doctor’s recommendation if you are eligible to take them. To achieve the best results, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy, balanced diet that is controlled in calories, along with a regular exercise routine.
What are the side effects of weight loss injections?
Like any medication, Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda can lead to certain side effects. Generally, these effects tend to be mild and often improve or fade away after a few weeks of starting the treatment.
Tips to lose weight naturally
The NHS has highlighted numerous effective strategies for weight loss. You can start by making minor adjustments to your diet and beverage choices or by seeking additional support.
If you are carrying excess weight, shedding some pounds can boost your energy levels and lower the chances of developing obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Determining whether you are at a healthy weight is crucial.
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a useful tool for assessing whether your weight is appropriate for your height. You can easily check your BMI using the NHS’ BMI healthy weight calculator.
Things you can do to lose weight:
- get active for 150 minutes a week – you can break this up into shorter sessions
- aim to get your 5 A Day – 80g of fresh, canned or frozen fruit or vegetables count as 1 portion
- aim to lose 1 to 2lbs, or 0.5 to 1kg, a week
- read food labels – products with more green colour coding than amber and red are often a healthier option
- swap sugary drinks for water – if you do not like the taste, add slices of lemon or lime for flavour
- cut down on food that’s high in sugar and fat – start by swapping sugary cereal for wholegrain alternatives
- share your weight loss plan with someone you trust – they can help motivate you when you have a bad day
Don’t:
- do not lose weight suddenly with diets
- do not stock unhealthy food – popcorn, fruit and rice cakes can be healthier alternatives
- do not skip meals – you might end up snacking more because you feel hungry
- do not finish your plate if you’re full – you can save leftover food for the next day
Start moving more and eating healthier with the free NHS Weight Loss Plan or sign-up for a weight loss support group. Visit the NHS Better Health website. Filter by ingredient or time and find a new favourite for the whole family. Visit the NHS Healthier Families website
Follow an instructor-led workout from the comfort of your own home. Choose from dance, yoga and more: NHS Fitness Studio. Find out why you should get 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day and what a portion size look like: 5 A Day: what counts?
You should never take an anti-obesity medicine unless it’s been prescribed to you, as they can be unsafe and cause serious side effects.