It is unlikely all patients who want Mounjaro and meet the criteria, will get it straight away, according to the trade association for large pharmacies, the Company Chemists’ Association.
Chief executive Malcolm Harrison said although the medicines are likely to “transform the lives” of millions, “it is unlikely that the planned GP provision will be sufficient to meet patient demand”.
And weight loss jabs are relatively new in healthcare terms. Some GPs and other other healthcare staff need training in how to offer them safely and appropriately.
Mounjaro also requires monthly check-ups for patients during the first few months of taking it, making this a labour intensive process for doctors.
Surgeries will also be looking at their capacity to provide the wrap-around care needed alongside the injection.
Then there will be those who can’t take Mounjaro right now – for example, women who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding.
People who have had certain conditions – like pancreatitis or certain thyroid tumours should not take the drug either.
Individuals will need to have a chat with their GP or clinic to weigh up the potential side-effects too.