NHS Weight Loss Drugs in Coventry and Warwickshire – What You Need to Know
From 23 June 2025, the NHS is beginning a phased rollout of the weight loss medication Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for a limited group of eligible patients. The NHS is rolling out access to this medicine in phases to ensure fair and safe delivery to those most in clinical need and who will benefit the most from the treatment.
However, in Coventry and Warwickshire, this medication is not yet available as an option in managing obesity. We are currently developing a weight management service that will include access to weight loss medications alongside lifestyle support, accessible within the community. This service is expected to launch in autumn 2025.
Until this service is live, GPs cannot prescribe Tirzepatide for managing obesity. Even if you meet the national eligibility criteria, please do not request this medication at GP appointments as you will be contacted if you are eligible.
Who will be eligible for Tirzepatide?
Under current NHS guidance, only people in the highest-risk group and who will benefit the most will be considered for treatment in the early stages. This includes those who meet all of the following:
- A BMI of 40 or higher (adjusted for ethnicity*), and
- Four or more of the following weight-related health conditions:Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Obstructive sleep apnoea
- Abnormal blood fats (dyslipidaemia)
This approach helps ensure that those most at risk of serious health problems from obesity are prioritised.
* Due to an increased risk of heath conditions at lower BMI thresholds in these populations, the BMI applied to assess eligibility for Tirzepatide will be adjusted by 2.5 kg/m2 in people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean ethnic backgrounds to ensure equitable clinical prioritisation and access to appropriate treatment.
Can I get weight loss medication from my GP?
No. GPs cannot prescribe Tirzepatide or similar GLP-1 drugs for weight loss in Coventry and Warwickshire at this time. Access to this medication in Coventry and Warwickshire will only be available through our new weight management service once it launches. GPs cannot refer patients into this service yet and cannot begin any NHS treatment plans for weight loss drugs at this time.
Once the new service is live, all referrals and prescribing will be managed through our new weight management service.
Can I access weight loss drugs privately?
Some private clinics may offer weight loss medications such as Tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
However:
- The NHS will not take over prescribing, monitoring, or follow-up for patients who access these drugs privately.
- If you choose to use a private provider, you will remain under their care.
We are also aware that some online providers (such as Oviva) are offering access under the NHS Right to Choose model. Coventry and Warwickshire ICB does not currently commission or endorse any Right to Choose weight loss medication services, as they do not meet our standards for wraparound support and clinical oversight.
Why are we taking this approach?
We want to ensure our services are:
- Fair and equitable, targeting those most at risk
- Safe, with the right checks, support and structured care
- Sustainable, without overwhelming GP practices or NHS resources
More than 65% of adults in our area are living with overweight or obesity. We are committed to delivering a high-quality service that meets clinical need while protecting our healthcare system.
Where can I get support now?
You can still access a range of local and NHS weight management services including specialist weight management programmes. The range of services include a focus on lifestyle and behavioural change, an important first step for many people.
Find out more about local weight management services in Coventry and Warwickshire