A major shift is underway in the UK’s weight-loss medication market. From 1 September 2025, private patients will face a steep price increase for the drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide)—with the highest doses rising to £330 per month, up from £122.
Keep reading for a full breakdown of the changes, what it means for you, and how to plan accordingly.
What’s Changing: An Overview
| Dose (per pen/month) | Current Price (private) | New Price from Sept | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highest dose (12.5mg/15mg) | £122 | £330 | ~170% |
| Mid doses (e.g., 7.5mg/10mg) | Up to approx £107 | Around £255 | Significant increase |
| Lowest dose (2.5mg/5mg) | ~£92–£122 | Up to £133–£180 | Substantial increase |
These hikes affect those paying privately, while the NHS cost remains protected under separate agreements
Why the Price Is Rising
- Global pricing alignment: Eli Lilly has increased Mounjaro’s UK list prices to align with other developed countries and ensure “fair global contribution” to innovation.
- External pressure: Political influences reportedly prompted pricing adjustments, pushing up UK prices ahead of similar U.S. reductions.
- Protecting NHS access: A separate deal ensures that NHS patients retain continued supply without paying the increased private rate.
What It Means for Private Patients
- Sharp cost increase: The highest dose jumps to £330/month, a 170% increase—a major financial change for many.
- Temporary supply freeze: To manage demand and prevent stockpiling ahead of the price hike, Eli Lilly has paused new Mounjaro shipments to UK pharmacies until 1 September.
- Switching trends: Some patients are turning to rival medications like Wegovy due to cost concerns and availability.
- Pharmacy discounts: A limited £83 rebate has been arranged for pharmacies to help reduce the burden—potentially lowering the price to £247.50/month for the highest dose in some cases
Patient Impact & Market Reaction
- Private patients alarmed: Many users describe Mounjaro as transformative for their health—but now fear affordability issues as costs rise.
- Panic purchasing and rationing: Pharmacies report stockpiling, rationing supplies, and limiting access to curb shortages.
- Market shift toward alternatives: Companies like CheqUp report spikes in Wegovy sales as cost-conscious patients seek options.
From September 2025, private UK prescriptions of Mounjaro face a stark cost rise—to £330/month for high doses—marking a 170% increase.
While NHS access remains unaffected, private patients are grappling with affordability, supply freezes, and switching pressures. Stay informed, consult your provider, and explore rebate options to manage the change.
FAQs
Because Eli Lilly increased UK list prices—aligning with international rates—resulting in a 170% increase for the highest dose.
No. NHS patients are insulated under separate agreements, so the price hike only applies to private prescriptions.
Some pharmacies will offer a rebate of up to £83 for the highest dose, reducing the price to approximately £247.50/month, though stocks may still be limited.
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