The National Health Service (NHS) is set to roll out two groundbreaking weight loss medications, Mounjaro and Wegovy, in pharmacies across the UK. This move follows approval by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which has deemed the treatments safe and effective for combating obesity.
Expanding Access to Obesity Treatments
Previously, these medications were only available through specialist weight management services. Now, patients will be able to access them more conveniently via their local pharmacies, significantly broadening the reach of these treatments.
How Do Mounjaro and Wegovy Work?
Both drugs function by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and insulin levels, helping patients feel fuller for longer and reducing cravings. Clinical trials have shown impressive results, with many participants losing significant weight over a year.
Who Can Benefit?
The treatments are aimed at adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or above who also have weight-related health conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
What This Means for Patients
This expansion is expected to relieve pressure on GP surgeries and specialist clinics while providing quicker access to effective weight loss solutions. However, experts emphasise that these medications should be used alongside lifestyle changes for the best outcomes.
The NHS has confirmed that the rollout will begin in the coming months, with detailed guidance being issued to pharmacies nationwide.
