The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended Tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro, for treating obesity. The guidance states that Tirzepatide can be used within the NHS for weight loss and weight maintenance, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, in adults with a BMI of over 35 who have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, sleep apnoea, heart disease or type 2 diabetes.
Studies have shown that Tirzepatide can help people lose more weight than diet and exercise alone. In clinical trials, participants lost an average of 22.5% of their body weight over 72 weeks. Previously, Tirzepatide was only available on the NHS for people with type 2 diabetes to help manage blood sugar and encourage weight loss. Given the potential benefits for around 3.4 million people in England, the introduction of Tirzepatide for the treatment of obesity will be carefully managed. Initially, only patients with the highest clinical need will receive treatment. This will allow time to develop digital and community weight management services to support people being prescribed the medication.
Over the next three years, the NHS will offer Tirzepatide to approximately 250,000 people, along with support for diet, lifestyle and physical activity. Patients in specialist weight management services will have access to Tirzepatide first. Those with the highest clinical need outside these services will start receiving it by June 2025.
Obesity is associated with numerous health issues, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes and arthritis. These complications are estimated to cost the NHS billions of pounds annually. Greater access to medications like Tirzepatide could help patients lose weight, prevent health problems, and save the NHS money.
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