NHS Kent and Medway Issues Guidance on Accessing Weight Loss Injections

NHS Kent and Medway has provided updated information regarding the availability of two weight loss injections, Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide), following their approval by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for managing obesity and overweight conditions.

Current Availability and Access

At present, Wegovy and Mounjaro are not yet available through local NHS services in Kent and Medway. Work is ongoing with specialists to establish appropriate referral pathways. Until these arrangements and supply chains are confirmed, referrals for these medications cannot be processed.

Both medications will be supplied exclusively through specialist weight management services to ensure patients receive comprehensive support, including dietary and nutritional advice, alongside the medication.

It's important to note that GP practices are not authorized to prescribe these medications, and specialist services should not be contacted directly to request them until official arrangements are in place.

Eligibility Criteria

Access to Wegovy and Mounjaro will be determined based on specific criteria, including:

• Body Mass Index (BMI)

• Presence of weight-related health conditions

• Age

These medications are considered when other weight management approaches have been unsuccessful. Your healthcare professional will discuss the benefits and limitations of these treatments with you, considering your individual circumstances.

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Caution Against Unregulated Sources

There have been reports of unsafe, counterfeit weight loss pens being sold online. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) warns the public not to purchase pre-filled pens claiming to contain Ozempic (semaglutide) or Saxenda (liraglutide) from unregulated sources. These products may be unsafe and ineffective.

Always consult a qualified healthcare professional and obtain medications through official NHS channels or registered pharmacies.

Additional Support

For individuals living with obesity, your GP can offer advice on improving your lifestyle and managing your weight safely. If you've tried various weight loss methods without success, your GP may refer you to a hospital consultant for further evaluation.

The NHS Digital Weight Management Programme is also available to support adults living with obesity who have a diagnosis of diabetes, hypertension, or both. Speak to your GP or local pharmacist to learn more about this programme and determine if it's suitable for you.

For the latest updates and more information, please visit the official NHS Kent and Medway website:

Weight Management - Kent & Medway ICS

Published: May 23, 2025