Understanding the cost of Mounjaro through WePrescribe is essential for patients considering private treatment for type 2 diabetes or weight management in the UK. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist administered as a once-weekly injection, offering significant glycaemic control and weight reduction. Whilst available through the NHS under specific criteria, many patients explore private prescribing services such as WePrescribe to access treatment more quickly or when NHS eligibility is not met. This article examines the factors influencing WePrescribe Mounjaro cost, compares NHS and private pathways, and provides guidance on what to expect when pursuing private treatment.

What Is Mounjaro and How Does It Work?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription medication licensed in the UK for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and, more recently, for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related comorbidities. It is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection.

Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. This dual mechanism distinguishes it from other GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide. By activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, Mounjaro enhances insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite through central nervous system pathways. These combined effects lead to improved glycaemic control and substantial weight loss.

Clinical trials, including the SURMOUNT and SURPASS programmes, have demonstrated that tirzepatide can achieve HbA1c reductions of up to 2.5% in people with type 2 diabetes and significant weight loss (with mean weight loss of approximately 20% in the SURMOUNT-1 trial in non-diabetic populations; somewhat lower in those with type 2 diabetes). Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation, which are typically mild to moderate and diminish over time.

Serious but rare risks include pancreatitis and gallbladder disease. Hypoglycaemia risk increases when used with insulin or sulphonylureas. Rapid improvement in glycaemic control may worsen diabetic retinopathy in some patients. Severe gastrointestinal adverse reactions can lead to dehydration and acute kidney injury.

Tirzepatide is not indicated for type 1 diabetes and is not recommended for use in those under 18 years of age. Treatment typically begins with a 2.5 mg weekly dose (for tolerability), with gradual dose escalation every 4 weeks or more to a maximum of 15 mg based on response and tolerability.

NHS vs Private Prescriptions: Understanding Your Options

Access to Mounjaro in the UK varies significantly depending on whether you pursue treatment through the NHS or via private prescription services. Understanding these pathways is essential for making informed decisions about cost, eligibility, and convenience.

NHS Prescribing: Mounjaro is available on the NHS for type 2 diabetes under specific criteria aligned with NICE guidance. Eligibility typically requires inadequate glycaemic control despite other therapies, and prescribing is usually initiated by specialist diabetes services. For weight management, NICE has recommended tirzepatide for chronic weight management in adults with a BMI ≥35 kg/m² (or ≥32.5 kg/m² in certain ethnic groups) and at least one weight-related comorbidity. Implementation is subject to NHS capacity constraints and must be delivered within specialist weight management services. Treatment for weight management is typically time-limited (up to 2 years). As with all NICE technology appraisals, NHS organisations are required to comply with funding within 90 days, though phased implementation may occur due to service capacity.

Waiting times for NHS specialist weight management services can be considerable, often extending to several months. When prescribed via the NHS, patients pay the standard NHS prescription charge (check the NHS website for current charges in England, with exemptions available for certain groups). In Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, prescriptions are free. However, supply shortages may affect availability.

Private Prescriptions: Private services such as WePrescribe offer an alternative route, potentially with shorter waiting times. Private prescriptions require patients to pay the full cost of the medication plus consultation and service fees. This option suits individuals who do not meet NHS criteria or prefer to avoid referral processes. Private providers conduct remote consultations, assess suitability, and arrange home delivery. Patients should inform their GP about privately prescribed medications to ensure continuity of care and safety. Supply constraints may also affect private availability.

Factors That Affect Mounjaro Pricing in the UK

The cost of Mounjaro in the UK is influenced by several interconnected factors, making it important to understand what drives pricing variations across different providers and supply channels.

Dosage Strength: Mounjaro is available in six dose strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg. Treatment typically begins at 2.5 mg weekly, with gradual dose escalation every four weeks to minimise gastrointestinal side effects and optimise efficacy. Higher doses cost more, and the total monthly expenditure increases as titration progresses. Patients should budget for escalating costs over the initial 16–20 weeks of treatment.

Supply Chain and Wholesaler Pricing: Mounjaro is manufactured by Eli Lilly and distributed through licensed pharmaceutical wholesalers. Wholesale acquisition costs and distribution logistics contribute to the final price. Supply shortages—which have affected GLP-1 receptor agonists globally—can lead to price volatility and limited availability, particularly in the private sector. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) issues medicines supply notifications when shortages occur.

Service Provider Fees: Private prescribing services charge for clinical consultations, prescribing, and delivery. These fees vary between providers and may include initial assessments, follow-up consultations, and ongoing monitoring. Some services offer subscription models or bundled packages, while others charge per consultation and prescription.

Regulatory and Licensing Costs: Providers must comply with MHRA regulations and maintain appropriate clinical governance frameworks, including prescriber indemnity, data protection, and patient safety protocols. These operational costs are reflected in service pricing.

Market Competition: As more private providers enter the weight management market, competitive pricing strategies may emerge. However, patients should prioritise clinical safety and regulatory compliance over cost alone, ensuring providers are registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and employ qualified prescribers. Always verify that medications are supplied through General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registered pharmacies to avoid counterfeit or unregulated products.

Mounjaro Cost Through WePrescribe: What to Expect

WePrescribe is a UK-based online prescribing service offering access to Mounjaro for eligible patients seeking private treatment for weight management or type 2 diabetes. Understanding the cost structure and service model helps patients plan financially and set realistic expectations.

Pricing Structure: While specific pricing may vary and should be confirmed directly with WePrescribe, private Mounjaro prescriptions typically cost between £150–£300 per month, depending on dosage strength and service fees. Initial starter doses (2.5 mg and 5 mg) are generally at the lower end of this range, while maintenance doses (10 mg, 12.5 mg, or 15 mg) are more expensive. Patients should anticipate a total treatment cost of £2,000–£3,500 annually when accounting for dose escalation and ongoing prescriptions. These figures are indicative only and may change with market conditions and supply availability.

What's Included: WePrescribe services typically include an initial online consultation with a qualified prescriber (usually a GP or specialist nurse), eligibility assessment, prescription issuance, and home delivery of medication. Follow-up consultations are usually required to monitor progress, assess tolerability, and adjust dosing. More frequent monitoring is typically needed during the initial titration phase. Some providers include these follow-ups in the initial fee, while others charge separately.

Eligibility Criteria: To prescribe Mounjaro safely, WePrescribe will assess your BMI, medical history, current medications, and weight-related comorbidities. Tirzepatide should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding and is not recommended in patients with severe gastrointestinal disease. Patients with cardiovascular disease, renal impairment, or diabetic retinopathy require careful evaluation. Tirzepatide should not be used alongside other GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Patient Safety and Monitoring: Reputable providers like WePrescribe should offer ongoing clinical support, including advice on managing side effects, guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications, and clear referral pathways if complications arise. Patients should be aware that tirzepatide reduces the exposure of oral contraceptives—additional contraception is advised for 4 weeks after initiation and after each dose increase. Patients taking insulin or sulphonylureas may need dose adjustments to reduce hypoglycaemia risk.

Patients should contact their GP or seek urgent medical attention if they experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of pancreatitis. Any suspected side effects should be reported through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Before committing to private treatment, patients should verify that the provider is CQC-registered, employs qualified prescribers, and sources medication from licensed UK pharmacies.

Frequently Asked Questions