The UK's most complete GLP-1 guide
Every Question Answered. Every Side Effect Explained.
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Mounjaro vs Wegovy compared
- Injection instructions
- Side effects & solutions
- What to eat on treatment
- FAQs answered
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Mounjaro Hair Loss — Cost and Access in the UK
Hair loss is a reported side effect of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), though it's less common than nausea or digestive changes. If you're considering this prescription weight loss injection in the UK, understanding both the potential side effects and how to access it — including costs and NHS eligibility — is essential. This guide covers what we know about Mounjaro-related hair loss, how much treatment costs privately, and your options for NHS access.
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Enter your height and weight below. Supports both imperial (stone & lbs) and metric (kg). Results include NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity adjustments.
What Is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool for assessing whether your weight falls within a healthy range. Used by the NHS, GPs, and weight management services across the UK, BMI provides a quick snapshot of your weight relative to your height. The formula is simple: your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared (kg/m²).
While BMI isn't a perfect measure — it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution — it remains the standard first step in identifying potential weight-related health risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The NHS also recommends adjusted thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, or Black African heritage — a BMI of 23 or above is classified as overweight, and 27.5 as obese. Our calculator includes this adjustment as a one-click toggle.
Mounjaro Hair Loss: What the Evidence Shows
Hair loss (alopecia) has been reported by some people taking Mounjaro, though it remains a less common side effect compared to nausea, diarrhoea, or constipation. In clinical trials, hair loss occurred in a small percentage of participants. The exact incidence varies, but most reports suggest it affects fewer than 1 in 100 users.
When hair loss does occur with Mounjaro, it may be:
- Temporary — often reversible after stopping the injection or as the body adjusts
- Related to gradual weight management — significant weight loss can trigger telogen effluvium (temporary shedding)
- Dose-dependent — more likely at higher doses like 10 mg or 15 mg
- Combined with nutritional factors — weight loss can reduce nutrient intake if diet isn't well-planned
If you experience unusual hair loss while taking Mounjaro, discuss it with your prescriber — they may adjust your dose, recommend nutritional support, or explore whether the hair loss is truly medication-related.
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How It Works
Three simple steps to understand your weight and take action.
Enter your height and weight in our free calculator. Get your BMI, NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity-adjusted thresholds instantly.
If your BMI suggests you're overweight or obese, explore our GLP-1 calculators to project potential weight loss on Mounjaro or Wegovy.
Use our progress tracker to log your weight weekly, visualise your journey with charts, and stay motivated — all stored privately in your browser.
Free Weight Loss Tools & Guides
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Accessing Mounjaro in the UK: Private vs NHS Routes
Private prescription cost: Mounjaro costs between £150 and £300 per month privately, depending on your dose. Starting doses (2.5 mg) are typically at the lower end, while maintenance doses (10–15 mg) cost more. A private online consultation with a UK-licensed prescriber usually costs £40–£80 separately. Payment is often per dose, not per month, so your cost scales with your dose titration.
NHS access: Mounjaro is available through NHS specialist tier 3 weight management services, but access is limited and variable by region. You'll need a GP referral and assessment by a specialist team. Waiting lists can be months to years in many areas. Your GP can advise whether your local ICB commissions tirzepatide treatment. Use our free GLP-1 weight loss calculator to explore potential outcomes, and discuss all options with your healthcare team.
Private online route: Most people accessing Mounjaro privately do so through GPhC-registered online pharmacies. The process involves an online consultation with a UK-licensed prescriber, clinical assessment (including weight, BMI, and health conditions), and prescription issued if suitable. Delivery typically takes 3–5 working days. You can use our free BMI calculator to understand your starting point before your consultation.
What to expect: Private prescribers will ask about your weight loss goals, medical history, current medications, and any contraindications (like pregnancy plans or gastroparesis). They assess whether prescription weight loss treatment is appropriate for you. Once approved, your prescription is sent directly to the pharmacy, and you receive your KwikPen injections with full instructions.
- Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 22.5% body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
- Weekly injection, dose escalation over 20+ weeks
- Available via private prescription in the UK
- Doses: 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 15–17% body weight loss (STEP trials)
- Weekly injection, 5-step dose escalation
- NHS & private prescription available
- Doses: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Head-to-Head
A side-by-side comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 weight loss medications available in the UK.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Avg. weight loss | 15–22.5% | 12–17% |
| Key trial | SURMOUNT-1 (2022) | STEP 1 (2021) |
| Max dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| Escalation period | 20–32 weeks | 16–20 weeks |
| Administration | Weekly injection (pen) | Weekly injection (pen) |
| NHS availability | Private prescription only | NHS & private |
| Approx. private cost | £150–£250/month | £150–£300/month |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Data sourced from SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 clinical trials. Costs are approximate and vary by provider. Always consult a prescriber.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Medication?
In the UK, eligibility for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy is based on your BMI and overall health profile.
- BMI of 30 or above (obese)
- Age 18 or over
- No contraindicated conditions
- Committed to lifestyle changes
- BMI of 27 or above
- Plus type 2 diabetes
- Or high blood pressure
- Or obstructive sleep apnoea
Use our BMI calculator to check whether your BMI falls within the eligible range.
How We Built These Tools
Every calculator and guide on myweightcheck is built with accuracy and transparency in mind. Our BMI calculator uses the standard WHO formula with NHS-aligned category thresholds. Our GLP-1 projections are modelled on published clinical trial data from SURMOUNT and STEP studies.
All data stays on your device. We don't require sign-ups, and we don't store your health information on any server. Your progress tracker saves data locally in your browser using localStorage, so only you can see it.
We're based in the UK and our tools are designed specifically for UK users — supporting stone & lbs by default, referencing NHS guidelines, using NICE-approved medication data, and linking to GPhC-registered pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BMI, weight loss medications, and our free UK tools.
Can hair loss from Mounjaro be reversed?
Yes, in most cases. Hair loss associated with Mounjaro is usually temporary and related to gradual weight management rather than the drug itself. Once you stop the injection or your body stabilises, hair shedding typically stops within weeks to months. Ensure adequate protein and micronutrient intake during weight loss to minimise shedding. If hair loss persists after stopping, consult your GP.
How much does Mounjaro cost privately in the UK?
Private Mounjaro costs £150–£300 per month depending on your dose. Starting doses (2.5 mg) are cheaper; maintenance doses (10–15 mg) cost more. Online consultations cost £40–£80 separately. Prices vary between private providers. Always check exact costs with your chosen provider before committing.
Can I get Mounjaro free on the NHS?
Mounjaro is available through NHS specialist weight management services (tier 3), but access varies significantly by region and waiting lists can be long. You need a GP referral and assessment by a specialist team. Contact your local ICB or ask your GP whether tirzepatide is commissioned in your area. Private access is usually faster but requires payment.
What's the difference between NHS and private Mounjaro?
The medication itself is identical. The difference is support and cost. NHS provides ongoing monitoring by a specialist team but involves waiting lists. Private prescribers offer faster access and flexibility but no ongoing NHS support. Both routes require clinical assessment. Discuss both options with your GP before deciding.
How long do I need to take Mounjaro?
This depends on your goals and response. Some people use it for 6–12 months to reach a target weight, then stop. Others continue longer-term to maintain weight loss. Your prescriber will review your progress regularly and discuss stopping points with you. Individual duration varies — there's no standard treatment length.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey?
Start with a free BMI check, explore your GLP-1 options, or begin tracking your progress today. No sign-up. No cost. Just results.