The diabetes and weight-loss medicine Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has transformed lives across the UK. But from September 2025, its price is set to rise sharply—in some cases by 170%. This article explains the reasons behind the increase, the impact on patients, and the options available.
1. What Is Mounjaro?
- Generic name: Tirzepatide
- Uses: Licensed in the UK for type 2 diabetes, also prescribed privately for weight management
- How it works: It targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, improving blood sugar control and reducing appetite
Since its UK rollout in 2023, demand has grown rapidly, particularly among patients seeking weight loss solutions similar to Wegovy.
2. Why Is the Price Increasing?
Eli Lilly, Mounjaro’s manufacturer, has confirmed it will raise the UK list price from September 2025.
Key reasons include:
- European alignment: UK prices were initially set lower to speed up NHS access. Now, Lilly is adjusting to match European markets.
- Global pricing pressure: Political moves in the US, including “Most Favoured Nation” rules, push companies to raise non-US prices to avoid knock-on effects.
- High demand vs supply constraints: Growing use for weight loss has put pressure on supply chains.
3. How Much Will Prices Rise?
Dose (mg) | Current Price (approx.) | New Price (approx.) | % Increase |
2.5 mg | £92 | £133 | +45% |
5 mg | £92 | £180 | +96% |
7.5–10 mg | £107 | £255 | +138% |
12.5–15 mg | £122 | £330 | +170% |
💡 The highest dose (15 mg) will now cost £330 per month, compared to £122 before—adding ~£2,700 annually to a patient’s private healthcare costs.
4. Who Will Be Affected?
- Private patients: Roughly 90% of UK Mounjaro users currently pay privately. They will feel the full impact.
- NHS patients: The NHS negotiates separate reimbursement prices, so patients with NHS prescriptions will not pay more.
- Pharmacies: Some, such as Pharmacy2U, are offering price freezes or rebates to reduce the burden.
5. Impact on Patients
- Financial pressure: Many patients will face much higher bills, risking treatment interruption.
- Health risks: Stopping suddenly could lead to weight regain or worsening blood sugar control.
- Stockpiling concerns: Reports show patients rushing to secure supply before September, which risks shortages.
6. Alternatives to Consider
- Wegovy (semaglutide): Another GLP-1 drug available privately and via the NHS in some cases.
- Lifestyle + medical support: Structured weight loss programmes combined with NHS guidance.
- Check NHS eligibility: Patients with diabetes or obesity who meet certain criteria may qualify for NHS-prescribed Mounjaro at the standard NHS charge.
7. FAQs
Q1: How much will Mounjaro cost in the UK after September 2025?
From £133 to £330 per month, depending on the dose.
Q2: Will NHS patients be affected?
No. The NHS has separate negotiated prices, so patients will continue to pay only the standard NHS prescription fee.
Q3: Why is Eli Lilly raising the price?
To align UK prices with European levels, address global pricing pressures, and respond to strong demand.
Q4: Are there ways to save money?
Some pharmacies offer rebates or fixed-price arrangements. Patients should also check NHS eligibility.
Q5: What are alternatives to Mounjaro?
Wegovy (semaglutide) and lifestyle-based weight loss programmes may provide options for those priced out of private prescriptions.
