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- 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 Price Increases and UK Affordability
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has experienced significant price increases in the UK market since its launch, raising concerns about affordability inequality among adults seeking weight loss support. Understanding how Mounjaro pricing compares to alternatives like Wegovy, and how both medications are accessed through NHS versus private routes, is essential for making informed decisions about weight management treatment. This guide explores the cost landscape and equity implications of GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist medications in the UK.
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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.
Understanding Mounjaro Pricing and Wegovy Cost Comparison
Mounjaro pricing in the UK has increased substantially since MHRA approval, with private prescriptions typically ranging from £180–£320+ per month depending on dose and provider. Starting doses (2.5 mg) are generally cheaper than maintenance doses (10–15 mg). Wegovy (semaglutide) pricing similarly varies by dose, with costs often comparable to or slightly lower than Mounjaro at equivalent doses, though individual providers set their own prices.
The pricing increases reflect supply constraints, manufacturing costs, and rising demand across the UK and globally. However, this creates an affordability gap: patients with higher incomes can access either medication privately, whilst those on lower incomes face long NHS waiting lists (often 18+ months in many regions) or cannot access these medications at all. This represents a significant health inequality, as access to weight loss treatment becomes determined by financial means rather than clinical need.
- Dose escalation costs more: Titrating from 2.5 mg to 15 mg typically increases monthly costs by 40–60%
- NHS access remains limited: Available through tier 3 specialist services with long waiting times
- Private costs vary by region and provider — no standardised UK pricing exists
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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.
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Clinical Effectiveness and Individual Suitability
From a clinical standpoint, both Mounjaro and Wegovy have strong trial evidence. Mounjaro (SURMOUNT-1 trial) showed average weight loss of approximately 20.9% at the maximum 15 mg dose over 72 weeks. Wegovy (STEP-1 trial) showed average weight loss of approximately 14.9% at 2.4 mg over 68 weeks. These are clinical trial averages—individual results vary significantly.
The choice between medications depends on individual health profile, response, and tolerability—not price alone. Your GP or prescriber will assess which medication suits you best based on your medical history, BMI, eligibility criteria, and any weight-related health conditions. Use our free GLP-1 weight loss calculator to estimate potential outcomes, and discuss both options with a healthcare professional to determine the most clinically appropriate and affordable route for your situation.
- 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.
Why has Mounjaro become more expensive in the UK?
Mounjaro prices reflect high manufacturing demand, supply chain constraints, and market pricing by individual providers. There is no NHS price cap on private prescriptions, so providers set their own rates. Global demand for tirzepatide has exceeded supply in some periods, driving prices upward. Additionally, escalation to higher doses (which cost more per injection) increases overall monthly costs.
Is Mounjaro cheaper through the NHS than private prescription?
Through the NHS, Mounjaro is typically free at the point of prescription if approved by a tier 3 specialist weight management service. However, NHS access is extremely limited and involves long waiting lists (often 18+ months). Most people seeking immediate access use private prescriptions, which cost £180–£320+ per month. This creates a significant inequality: those who can afford private treatment access it immediately, whilst others wait or go without.
How does Wegovy pricing compare to Mounjaro?
Wegovy pricing is often similar to or slightly cheaper than Mounjaro at equivalent doses, though both vary by provider and dose. Starting Wegovy (0.25–0.5 mg) may cost £129–£180 monthly, whilst maintenance (2.4 mg) may cost £200–£280. Mounjaro starting doses (2.5 mg) typically cost £180–£220, with maximum doses (15 mg) reaching £300+. Individual provider costs vary—shopping around is recommended.
Which medication is better—Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Both are effective, but clinical suitability depends on your individual health profile, not cost. Mounjaro is a dual GIP+GLP-1 agonist with slightly higher average trial weight loss (20.9% vs 14.9%), but Wegovy's longer UK track record and once-weekly dosing may suit some people. Your prescriber will assess which is clinically appropriate based on your BMI, health conditions, and medical history. Use our GLP-1 weight loss calculator to explore projected outcomes with each medication.
Can I access Mounjaro free through the NHS?
Yes, but access is very limited. Mounjaro is approved by NICE for NHS specialist tier 3 weight management services in adults with BMI ≥30 (or ≥27 with weight-related conditions). However, NHS availability varies significantly by region and waiting lists are extremely long in most areas. Your GP can refer you to check local availability. Most people currently access Mounjaro through private prescription, which costs £180–£320+ monthly depending on dose.
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