Weight Loss – Mounjaro
We are aware of recent price increases affecting those choosing to purchase Mounjaro from private providers. Please DO NOT seek an appointment at the practice to discuss this.
Although we understand the frustration caused, we are currently not able to help. Our local commissioners maintain that these medications, for weight loss purposes, are not to be prescribed in primary care (see link below).
They remain prescribed only through specialist clinics, none of whom are accepting referrals locally at present. As we currently do not have any actions available to us to change these circumstances, we ask you not to seek an appointment regarding this matter.
However, other GP surgeries across England may be able to prescribe this medication provided patients meet the eligibility criteria which is as follows:
- A BMI of 40+ (37.5 for minority ethnic backgrounds)
- Patients must have 4 out of 5 of the following conditions: Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart and vascular disease, high cholesterol and obstructive sleep apnoea.
Alternative weight loss support
For patients who do not meet the eligibility criteria for the Mounjaro weight loss injection, there are alternative steps that can help you on your weight loss journey, as outlined on the NHS website.
The do’s and don’ts of weight loss:
DO
- Get active for 150 minutes a week – you can break this up into short sessions.
- Aim to get your 5 a day – 80g of fresh, canned or frozen fruit or vegetables count as 1 portion.
- Aim to loose 1 to 2lbs, or 0.5 to 1kg, a week.
- Read food label – Products with more green colour coding than amber or red are often a healthier option.
- Swap sugary drinks for water – If you do not like the taste, add slices of lemon or lime.
- Cut down on food that is high in sugar and fat – Start swapping cereal for wholegrain alternatives.
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 skips meals – You might end up snacking more because you feel hungry.
- Do not finish your plate if you are full – You can save left over food for the next day.
Click here to view a Weight Management Guidance leaflet from the Lancashire and South Cumbria ICB
Alternative support can be found using the following links:
Five a day: What counts: – 5 A Day: what counts? – NHS
NHS Better Health – Lose weight – Better Health – NHS
NHS exercise guidelines – Exercise – NHS