Jump to: How can I get Mounjaro in the UK? | What is Mounjaro? | Why is Mounjaro prescription-only? | Are there over-the-counter alternatives? | Take home message
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) isn’t available over the counter in the UK.
It’s a prescription-only medication that requires an assessment from a qualified healthcare professional to ensure it’s both safe and appropriate for your health journey.
Research shows that Mounjaro leads to an average weight loss of 26% after one year, making it the most effective weight-loss medication currently available in the UK.
In the UK, you can access Mounjaro through private providers like Second Nature, where the clinical team can assess your eligibility before you can access our Mounjaro weight-loss programme.
How can I get Mounjaro in the UK?
Mounjaro is available in the UK through private prescription only. The NHS is now prescribing Mounjaro for weight loss and type 2 diabetes, but availability is limited.
To be eligible for Mounjaro through private providers like Second Nature, you’ll need to meet specific health criteria:
- BMI of 30 kg/m² or above (or 27+ kg/m² with weight-related health conditions)
- Over 18 years old
- Not pregnant or planning pregnancy
- No history of certain medical conditions
- Committed to making sustainable lifestyle changes alongside medication
What is Mounjaro, and how does it work?
Mounjaro is a dual-action weight-loss injection that mimics two natural hormones our body already produces: GLP-1 and GIP.
Think of these hormones as messengers communicating with your brain’s appetite control centre, helping you feel fuller for longer while lowering the feeling of food noise.
The medication works in two ways:
- It signals to our brain’s appetite control centre that you’ve had enough to eat, reducing hunger and cravings
- It gently slows down digestion, helping us feel comfortably fuller for longer after meals
This dual action makes Mounjaro particularly effective for weight loss.
Clinical trials show participants lost an average of 26% of their body weight after one year – for someone weighing 95kg, that’s about 25kg, achieved through a combination of medication and introducing healthy habits.
Why is Mounjaro prescription-only?
Mounjaro’s prescription-only status is to protect your health and safety. The medication requires careful medical supervision for several important reasons:
The dosage needs careful adjustment over time to minimise side effects and maximise effectiveness.
Your healthcare team will start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it based on your unique response to the medication.
Your health history and current medications need a thorough review to ensure Mounjaro is safe.
Certain medical conditions or medications might mean Mounjaro isn’t suitable, which is why professional medical guidance is essential.
Regular monitoring helps ensure you respond well to the medication and achieve healthy, sustainable weight loss. This ongoing support is crucial for both your safety and success.
This medical supervision is why attempting to purchase Mounjaro without a prescription isn’t just illegal in the UK – it could be dangerous for your health.
Always obtain Mounjaro through legitimate healthcare providers who provide proper oversight and support.
Are there over-the-counter alternatives?
Orlistat (Alli) is currently the only over-the-counter weight-loss medication available in the UK.
It works differently from Mounjaro and, while helpful for some people, isn’t as effective for weight loss.
While Mounjaro mimics hormones to lower hunger, Orlistat works in your digestive system to block fat absorption.
Research shows Orlistat typically leads to an average weight loss of 4-8% after one year.
Here’s how they compare:
Effectiveness:
- Mounjaro: 26% average weight loss after one year
- Orlistat: 4-8% average weight loss after one year
Cost:
- Mounjaro: ~£150-299 per month through private prescription
- Orlistat: Around £18 per month over-the-counter
Availability:
- Mounjaro: Prescription only with ongoing medical supervision
- Orlistat: Available over the counter (60mg) or prescription (120mg)
Take home message
While Mounjaro isn’t available over the counter, it can be accessed through private prescription if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Its effectiveness makes it a valuable tool for weight management when combined with supportive lifestyle changes and proper medical oversight.
If you’re interested in Mounjaro, consider a comprehensive programme that provides both the medication and support for sustainable lifestyle changes that will help you succeed in your weight-loss journey.
Second Nature’s medication programme
Second Nature provides Mounjaro as part of our weight-loss programme.
Why should you choose Second Nature over other providers assuming you’re eligible?
For peace of mind.
Second Nature has worked with the NHS for over 6 years, providing weight-loss programmes across the UK.
While our Mounjaro weight-loss programme is private and not currently used by the NHS, we’ve built the programme focusing on scientific evidence, patient safety, and data security.
We hope that our 6+ years of working with the NHS and building a track record of effective weight-loss results will give you peace of mind to give us a try.
Please note: We generally recommend speaking with your GP/doctor before you start taking any new medication like Mounjaro. If you do sign up for Second Nature's Mounjaro programme, then we'll also send your GP a letter to let them know you've started a medication-supported weight-loss journey.
