The Impact on Patients and GPs

The mismatch between national headlines and local reality has created what experts call a “postcode lottery.” Some GP practices have even put up notices asking patients not to contact them about Mounjaro until further notice, adding to the frustration.

Clinicians warn that this is leaving both patients and GPs distressed. Professor Jonathan Hazlehurst from the University of Birmingham described the situation as “chaotic,” noting that the year one budget only supports about 10% of the 220,000 patients NHS England originally aimed to treat.

Why It Matters

Mounjaro, which acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, has been shown to support significant weight loss, improve blood sugar control, and reduce cardiovascular risk. For patients living with obesity, access could make a life-changing difference.

But without adequate funding and clear rollout plans, many are left feeling excluded. Nicola Heslehurst, president of the Association for the Study of Obesity, said the shortfall is “another blow for people living with obesity who deserve evidence-based care.”

The NHS officially launched Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for obesity treatment back in June, but a new BMJ report reveals that less than half of England can actually access it through GP services.

A Patchy Rollout

According to the analysis, only 18 of 42 Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) have started prescribing the drug. That means patients in large parts of the country are left waiting, despite being eligible.

Even where prescribing has begun, funding is inconsistent. Only nine ICBs have enough budget to cover around 70% of their eligible patients, while others can treat just a fraction. In Coventry and Warwickshire, funding currently stretches to only 21% of those identified as eligible.