If you’re considering Mounjaro as a treatment option, whether it’s for managing type 2 diabetes or as part of a weight loss plan under medical supervision, one of the most important first steps is having an honest conversation with your GP or healthcare provider. I’ve been where you might be now – trying everything under the sun to shift the weight, manage cravings, or stabilise blood sugar levels. It can be overwhelming to bring up a new treatment, especially one that’s gained a bit of attention in the press or social media. But I want to walk you through how to prepare for that appointment in a way that’s calm, informed and focused on your goals and health needs. I’m not a doctor. I’m just someone who’s been on their own long journey with weight and health, and I’ve found Mounjaro to be life-changing. This blog isn’t advice – it’s just me sharing what helped me, and what I wish I’d known when I first approached my GP.
Start with your why
When you sit down with your GP, you want to be clear about why you’re interested in Mounjaro. Is it because your current diabetes treatment isn’t working as well as it used to? Have you been stuck in a weight loss plateau despite doing all the right things? Maybe you’ve seen stories from others and feel it could support you with your goals. Whatever your reason, make it personal and honest. Doctors respond best when they can see the context and motivation. You don’t need to list all the diets or medications you’ve tried, but a quick overview of your efforts and frustrations helps to paint the picture. I simply explained that I’d spent years trying various methods and was struggling to maintain long-term success, and that I’d read about the effects of GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists in supporting weight management and glucose control.
Bring facts to the table
It helps if you come to the appointment with some basic understanding of what Mounjaro is. That way, your doctor sees you’re not just jumping on a trend. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual agonist of the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, designed primarily for treating type 2 diabetes. Clinical trials have shown it can also have a significant impact on weight loss. According to a 2022 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, patients using tirzepatide lost between 15% and 20.9% of their body weight over 72 weeks, depending on dosage. That’s considerably more than other medications in the same class. [Source: https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038] Let your GP know that you understand it’s a prescription-only medication designed for those who meet certain criteria. You’re not demanding it – you’re exploring if it might be appropriate, based on your personal health profile and goals.
Know if you’re eligible
In the UK, the use of Mounjaro is still evolving. As of now, NICE (the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) has approved tirzepatide for managing type 2 diabetes in specific situations where blood glucose is not adequately controlled, particularly where metformin alone is not sufficient. If you don’t have type 2 diabetes but are interested in the weight loss effects, it’s important to know that off-label use is a grey area. Some private clinics may prescribe it for this purpose, but it is not currently approved by NICE solely for weight loss outside of clinical trials or specific medical supervision. If you’re seeing your NHS GP, expect them to focus on NICE guidelines. That’s not a roadblock – just something to be aware of.
Be open to their viewpoint
It’s worth remembering that your GP may not be familiar with Mounjaro yet. It’s still relatively new, and while it’s gaining attention, not every surgery has prescribing systems set up. If your doctor seems hesitant, don’t panic. Ask if they’d be willing to look into it or refer you to a specialist who can advise further. You’re not expecting an immediate prescription – just a conversation that might lead to the right next step. You could also ask if your surgery has a diabetes specialist or pharmacist you could speak with.
What to bring to your appointment
Having a short, written summary of key points can help you stay on track during the discussion. This might include:
- A list of current medications and any side effects you’re experiencing
- Recent test results such as HbA1c, cholesterol, or blood pressure readings
- A brief history of past weight loss attempts, diets, or medications you’ve tried
- A printout or link to the NEJM study or NICE guidance (if applicable)
You don’t have to sound like a textbook – just show that you’re serious about your health and have done your homework.
Common concerns GPs may raise
Your doctor may have questions or concerns such as:
- Are you aware of the possible side effects? (nausea, constipation, fatigue etc.)
- Are you willing to commit to regular monitoring if prescribed?
- Are you managing lifestyle factors alongside medication, such as nutrition and movement?
- Have you considered potential costs if this is via private prescription?
These are all valid points. It helps to acknowledge that you’re aware of the pros and cons and are committed to making lifestyle changes alongside any medication.
Should you go private?
Some people choose to explore private prescriptions for Mounjaro if they don’t meet the NHS eligibility criteria. This route can be expensive, with monthly costs ranging from £150 to over £300 depending on the provider and dosage. If you’re going to raise this with your GP, be clear that you’re looking for advice – not asking them to source it. They may not be able to advise on private clinics, but they can still support you with monitoring and general health guidance. It’s also a good idea to check that any private provider is registered with the CQC (Care Quality Commission) and follows medical best practice.
A few tips to make the conversation easier
- Book a double appointment if possible, so you’re not rushed
- Write down your main points in advance and bring them with you
- Be honest about your struggles without downplaying or dramatising
- Frame it as a discussion, not a demand
- Remember: your GP is there to support you, not judge you
What if your GP says no?
Sometimes the answer will be no – at least for now. Don’t let that knock your confidence. Ask if there are alternatives or if they’ll re-evaluate after a certain time. You can also ask for a referral to a weight management service or endocrinologist. If you’re considering going private, do your research and proceed carefully. Just make sure any plan involves proper medical oversight.
Final thoughts
Having the confidence to talk to your doctor about something like Mounjaro can feel daunting, especially if you’ve spent years battling weight or feeling unheard. But you have every right to ask questions, share what you’ve learned, and explore what might be available to help you. You’re not alone in this, and you don’t have to go it alone either. Whether you walk out with a prescription, a plan, or just some encouragement, taking that step is progress. I started by having that same conversation – and I’m glad I did. I hope this guide makes it a little easier for you to do the same.
