GPs are experiencing increased demand for weight loss medication.

Wegovy® (Semaglutide) can only be prescribed in a tier 3 weight management service. This is not commissioned in NCL and a way forward is being developed. A digital weight management provider has contacted NCL practices. The ICB does not have a contract with this provider, or oversight of the quality and governance of the service.

Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide) will be available from summer 2025 at the earliest. Further guidance is awaited from NHSE about how this will be rolled out.

The medicines optimisation team is working to ensure acute providers are not requesting GPs to prescribe Glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists in primary care until a formal pathway is agreed. Messaging for patients and links are provided to other resources for patients to help manage their weight.

Further details can be found in the article below.