NHS Kent and Medway Issues Updated Guidance on Accessing Weight Loss Injections

We are receiving many requests to prescribe weight loss injections such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

Please be aware that Kent and Medway ICB (the organisation responsible for overseeing NHS funding for practices in Lenham) has instructed that this medication cannot currently be prescribed for weight loss.

The website link below provides more detailed information, including who may be eligible for this medication in the future:

➡️ Weight Management – Kent & Medway ICS

We understand this is a frustrating situation for many patients. However, booking an appointment to discuss this will not change the outcome, as the decision not to prescribe is not made by GPs or practitioners at the surgery, we must follow the current NHS and ICB guidelines.

There are some patients who are prescribed Mounjaro or similar medications for diabetes management. This is permitted on the NHS and will continue as usual.

We are also aware that some patients are accessing these medications via private pharmacies or online providers. If this applies to you, please ensure you inform your private provider of any other medications you are taking, so they can prescribe safely.

Latest Guidance from NHS Kent and Medway

Following NICE approval, NHS Kent and Medway has issued updated guidance on the availability of Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management.

Current Access Status

• These medications are not yet available via local NHS weight management services in Kent and Medway.
• Until referral pathways and support services are established, referrals cannot be made, and the medications cannot be prescribed for weight loss by any GP or nurse.
• When available, they will be prescribed only via specialist services, with structured support.

Phased Rollout of Mounjaro

• NHS England is introducing Mounjaro in a phased rollout.
• Although it is due to become available for a specific patient group in primary care from Monday 23 June 2025, Kent and Medway does not yet have the required support service in place.
• As a result, Mounjaro cannot currently be prescribed for weight loss in primary care in this area.

Eligibility Criteria (when available)

To be prescribed accessing tirzepatide (Mounjaro) patients must have a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 plus and four or more of the following diagnosed health conditions:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Obstructive sleep apnoea
• Abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia).

Both patient and clinician also have to agree it is the most appropriate option and the right treatment for them.

People with the highest health risks and who meet the clinical criteria will be prioritised.

Safety Warning

The MHRA has reported counterfeit pens being sold online. Please do not buy semaglutide or liraglutide injections (e.g., Ozempic, Saxenda) from unregulated sources, as they may be dangerous.

Additional Support

In the meantime, your GP can still:

• Offer lifestyle and weight management advice
• Assess your eligibility for the NHS Digital Weight Management Programme, available to patients with diabetes and/or high blood pressure

Published: Jun 20, 2025