GPs prescribing Mounjaro

Community weight management support in Dorset - Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)

In line with NICE guidance, the new weight management ‘Tirzepatide’ medication (brand name Mounjaro^®) has been approved for use in the NHS. Tirzepatide will be available to NHS patients nationally from 23 June and locally from autumn 2025.

In Dorset around 1,000 people currently qualify for the medication based on national eligibility criteria, which states individuals must:

1. Have a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m² or more (or 37.5 kg/m² for people from minority ethnic family backgrounds) and have at least four of the following long-term conditions:
2. Non-diabetic hyperglycaemia or type 2 diabetes
3. Hypertension (high blood pressure)
4. Dyslipidaemia
5. Established cardiovascular disease
6. Obstructive sleep apnoea

NHS Dorset Integrated Care Board (ICB)

As commissioners, NHS Dorset Integrated Care Board (ICB) is currently considering how Tirzepatide will fit with existing weight management services in the county to achieve the best outcomes for patients. These services also include support on achieving a low-calorie diet and increasing exercise along with psychological support.

We’re currently commissioning a new sustainable community-based weight management service, which is being designed in response to local feedback. The service will launch later in 2025, and GP practices will receive communications when they can begin referring patients to the new service.

For more information on weight management services in Dorset, visit LiveWell Dorset.