Quick Answer
Generally, weight loss medications are prescribed for adults aged 18+ with a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27+ with at least one weight-related condition. You will need to complete a medical consultation.
Detailed Answer
Eligibility for weight loss medication in the UK depends on the specific medication and whether you are accessing it via the NHS or privately through an online pharmacy. The general criteria are based on NICE guidance and the individual summaries of product characteristics.
For Mounjaro (tirzepatide) under NICE TA1026, the criteria are: adults aged 18 or over with a BMI of 35 kg/m² or above and at least one weight-related comorbidity (e.g. type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, obstructive sleep apnoea, cardiovascular disease, or prediabetes). A lower BMI threshold applies for individuals from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African, or African-Caribbean backgrounds.
For private prescriptions, many providers use broader eligibility criteria aligned with the MHRA-approved prescribing information: a BMI of 30 or above, or a BMI of 27 or above with at least one weight-related condition.
In all cases, a medical consultation is required. A registered prescriber will assess your medical history, current medications, contraindications (such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2 syndrome), and overall suitability for treatment.
You do not need a GP referral to access weight loss medication privately. You can complete an online consultation through any of the GPhC-registered providers listed on our platform.