How much will weight loss drugs like Mounjaro cost and how long will I take them?

What are the weight loss drugs?

These prescription only treatments help you manage your weight by reducing appetite and controlling cravings. They mimic a natural hormone that signals fullness, that helps us  eat less and stick to healthier habits. The options authorised for weight loss management in the UK are:

• Wegovy (semaglutide)
• Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
• Saxenda (liraglutide)

These drugs give the biggest benefits as part of your overall weight reduction and management plan, including making changes to your diet and exercise routines. All these treatments are self-administered using easy-to-use injector pens, with pill based treatments likely to be available in the next year or so. Wegovy and Mounjaro are the most popular with Mounjaro is considered to be the most effective.

Where can you obtain the weight loss drugs?

1. NHS GPs: If you meet the qualifying criteria, you may be able to access the treatments through NHS programmes (more info here). Currently availability for is limited and varies regionally.
2. Private GPs: These clinics offer quicker access to the treatments but at a higher cost. Appointments can often be booked online, and some offer follow-up support for you as part of their service.
3. Online pharmacies: Regulated online pharmacies provide convenient access to treatments with home delivery. Always ensure the pharmacy is registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council. As part of our price tracking service for Wegovy and Mounjaro we track over 110 GPhC registered UK online pharmacies: the SlimrChat online pharmacy directory can be found here: Online Pharmacy Directory

Remember: these drugs are prescription only so you should never get buy from unofficial sources, such as those who can be on social media.

How much do the weight loss drugs cost in the UK?

The cost of weight loss drugs varies depending on where you get them from – NHS, private GPs, or online pharmacies. We’ve found the online pharmacies frequently have offers for new customers, repeat customers and for referrals. There’s an overview of what you can broadly expect below:  

Wegovy

• NHS GPs: Availability is limited and eligibility criteria are strict, including a high BMI and specific health conditions.
• Private GPs: Costs typically range from £120 – £400+ per month, depending on the provider and any additional consultation fees.
• Online pharmacies: Prices are currently around £80 – £350 per month depending on the dosage level you need. Some online platforms also charge for initial consultations or starter kits.
• Remember, many of the benefits of Wegovy are only enjoyed over time so the costs can be very expensive. It is worth planning what your weight loss goal is and getting an idea of what costs may be involved. The average cost for a 18-month Wegovy treatment plan is around £3,700, to make costs across online pharmacies more transparent SlimrChat track prices across 100+ GPhC online pharmacies so you can compare and contrast:

See today’s cheapest rates: Wegovy

Compare your provider:  Wegovy

Calculate your full journey cost: Wegovy

Mounjaro

• NHS GPs: This treatment is not widely available through the NHS.
• Private GPs: Expect costs in the range of £250 – £500 per month, plus consultation fees.
• Online pharmacies: Prices are currently around £140 – £350 per month depending on the dosage level you need. Some online platforms also charge for initial consultations or starter kits.
• Remember, many of the benefits of Mounjaro are only enjoyed over time so the costs can be very expensive. It is worth planning what your weight loss goal is and getting an idea of what costs may be involved. The average cost for a 18-month Mounjaro treatment plan is around £5,500, to make costs across online pharmacies more transparent SlimrChat track prices across 100+ GPhC online pharmacies so you can compare and contrast:

See today’s cheapest rates: Mounjaro

Compare your provider: Mounjaro

Calculate your full journey cost: Mounjaro

Saxenda

• NHS GPs: Saxenda is more commonly available through NHS weight management services. Eligibility includes a high BMI and related health conditions.
• Private GPs: Monthly costs are between £160 – £350 per month, depending on the clinic.
• Online pharmacies: Prices are currently around £120 – £280 per month depending on the dosage level you need. Some online platforms also charge for initial consultations or starter kits.

Additional costs to consider

• Consultations: Private GP consultations typically cost between £80 and £120

How long will you need to take the treatments?

The length of time you’ll stay on the treatments depends on your weight loss goals and how your body responds to the medication, including any side effects. Here’s a general timeline:

1. Initial phase (3-6 months): During this time, you’ll focus on how well the treatment works for you. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress and side effects.
2. Sustained treatment (6-18 months): Many users stay on the medication for over a year to achieve and maintain significant weight loss.
3. Maintenance phase: Some individuals taper off the treatment under medical supervision, while others may need to continue indefinitely to prevent weight regain.

Many people find that by using weight loss drugs they can overcome food noise and, as a result, reset eating habits and exercise habits to lead a healthier life. With these changes they find it easier to maintain a healthier lower weight without reliance on weight loss drugs longer-term.

Your doctor or healthcare provider will guide you on the best plan based on your progress and health needs.

Questions to ask your doctor or healthcare provider

Before starting GLP-1 treatments, it’s crucial to have an open discussion with your GP or private provider. Here are some questions to consider:

• Am I eligible?
• What are the potential side effects, and how can they be managed?
• How long will I need to stay on this treatment?
• Are there alternative options if this doesn’t work for me?
• What lifestyle changes should I make alongside the treatment?

Want to know more? Read How to get a weight loss prescription, 

Final thoughts

GLP-1 treatments can be life-changing, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution, and they’re not a short cut. They will work best for you as part of an overall plan so remember healthy eating and exercise will reduce your reliance on the drugs longer term. Whilst you need the costs can add up, the potential benefits – better health, increased confidence, and improved quality of life – make them worth considering for many of us.