Overview

• Health officials are set to announce pilot programs enabling pharmacies to provide weight loss jabs at the standard NHS prescription cost of £9.90.
• GLP-1 receptor agonists, branded as Mounjaro and Wegovy, reduce food cravings and are currently only available through specialist hospital clinics on the NHS.
• Pharmacies, described as accessible and experienced in delivering such treatments, are prepared to support the rollout with appropriate funding and stock availability.
• An estimated 1.5 million private monthly purchases of the medication highlight strong demand, with private costs ranging from £129 to £300 per month.
• The initiative aligns with the Government’s preventive healthcare strategy to address obesity and ensure equitable access, especially for deprived communities.