Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Prescribing Update.
Ashdown Medical Group
Please do not contact the practice regarding weight loss prescribing at this time. We are reviewing and awaiting further local NHS guidance. Due to current appointment pressures our reception team will be unable to book you in for a review regarding starting weight loss injections as we will be contacting eligible patients directly in due course.
Qualifying criteria for use in Obesity:
A BMI (Body Mass Index) of 40 or greater AND four or more of the following diagnosed health conditions:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension (raised blood pressure)
- Cardiovascular disease (heart or stroke related disease)
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Dyslipidaemia (raised cholesterol)
Very few patients currently meet the above criteria and the practice will review the list of patients that meet the criteria. Our understanding is that the criteria above will be reviewed and the threshold reduced each year allowing more patients to be eligible.
From 23 June 2025, people living with obesity and four or more diagnosed health conditions may have the opportunity to access tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) for weight loss support through their GP. We are currently finalising plans for how this process will be managed at Ashdown Medical Group.
Access to medication will be considered alongside support for healthy eating and increasing physical activity, as part of a national wrap-around service. Engagement with this support service will be a requirement for prescribed weight loss medication.
At Ashdown Medical Group, we are committed to helping people live healthier lives. We understand how difficult it can be for many people living with obesity to access the support they need. That is why we are working closely with partners across Sussex to provide services that help people make long-term, sustainable changes to improve their wellbeing.
Obesity is a complex health condition and one of the leading contributors to serious illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
We recognise that some people may feel frustrated or disappointed if they are not eligible for medication-based treatments at this stage. Living with obesity can be emotionally and physically challenging, and it is completely normal to experience a range of feelings when seeking support for your health. If you are finding things difficult, NHS Talking Therapies offers free and confidential help for people who may be struggling with low mood, anxiety, or other emotional pressures.
Please note, the criteria for use of Mounjaro in Diabetes that has been difficult to manage with oral medications is different to the above, and this can be discussed when patients are routinely reviewed for their diabetes care.
To find out more about obesity treatment and the support available please see the below links.
Further information:
- NHS England » Weight management injections
- One You offer group, one-to-one and digital health and wellbeing support to anyone living or working in East Sussex.
- NHS Better Health – Free online tools and support to help you lose weight and get active.
- NHS Weight Loss Plan – Free 12-week diet and exercise plan, available as an app on the App Store, Google Play, or as a printed version.
- NHS Exercise – NHS Advice on Exercise for patients,
- Couch to 5k and Active 10 – Couch to 5k – A 9-week running plan for beginners with each week involving 3 runs. Available online and on the App Store or Google Play. Active 10 – A free walking tracker app available on the App Store or Google Play.
- ManVFat – Diet tips and weight loss motivation for men