Prescribing of Weight Loss Injections

Posted on July 9th, 2025

Weight Loss Medication – Mounjaro / Tirzepeptide

Although you may have heard on the news or social media that GP`s are able to prescribe Tirzepeptide (Mounjaro) to patients without diabetes the situation in Rotherham and across South Yorkshire is that we are not currently allowed to.

GPs can only prescribe weight loss injections (such as Mounjaro) once a full wraparound support service is in place locally. This includes a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity programme which patients must engage with for at least 9 months. We are currently waiting for this service to be put in place by the South Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (commissioners of NHS services) meaning we remain unable to prescribe weight loss injections at this current time.

One launched, patient eligibility will be rolled-out based on specific cohorts which will be prioritised over the coming years. The first group (Cohort 1) are:

• BMI >40.
• Patients with 4 of the 5 weight related conditions (Type 2 Diabetes, High blood pressure, heart and vascular disease, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnoea)

(Please note, that many patients currently buying these medications privately will therefore not be eligible for NHS prescriptions due to the strict criteria)

Until such time that this service is fully commissioned and roll-out commences across South Yorkshire, we remain able to refer patients to our current specialist weight management services, and to Rotherham Healthwave, for weight loss support.

If you have any more questions please look at the following ICB FAQ:

NICE’s announcement on Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). Frequently asked questions for patients :: South Yorkshire I.C.B