There’s lots of interest in our service. Due to demand, there may be a longer wait to get started. Meanwhile, explore the website for helpful advice.

Weight loss medication

Woman and her mother cooking together
Young man looking at the camera

Weight loss medication has been widely discussed in the news and on social media, with many people curious about how it works and whether it’s the right option for them.

The Choose You healthy weight programmes are run by the shared Public Health team across Bedford, Central Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes, and we do not prescribe weight loss medication, including injections.

You can find out more about weight loss medication locally by visiting the Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care System website.

If you would like to consider one of our local weight loss programmes (not including weight loss drugs) please find more information on our healthy weight page.

What is Tirzepatide/ Mounjaro®?

Please note that Tirzepatide/Mounjaro – or any other weight loss medication – is not offered as part of the Choose You programme.

Tirzepatide, also known by the brand name Mounjaro®, is a new medication that has been approved by NHS England and NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) for people living with obesity. It’s part of a newer class of drugs originally developed to help manage blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, but it’s also been shown to support weight loss.

GPs in England can prescribe Tirzepatide, but access is extremely limited in the first two years. This is to allow the NHS to safely manage its introduction and monitor results.

Who can get Tirzepatide/ Mounjaro?

You should only contact your GP if you meet very specific NHS criteria.To be eligible for Tirzepatide under the current guidelines, you must:

  • Have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or above
  • AND be diagnosed with at least four of the following medical conditions:
    • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
    • Dyslipidaemia (abnormal levels of fats in the blood)
    • Obstructive sleep apnoea
    • Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD)
    • Type 2 diabetes mellitus

These conditions must already be confirmed by a medical professional and both you and your health professional need to agree that this is the right approach for you. If you don’t meet these criteria, you won’t be prescribed the drug through the NHS at this stage.

GP consultation for new weight loss drug

Get free support

Get started for free and discover how small changes can transform your health.