From September, Eli Lilly will raise the UK price of its diabetes and weight-loss drug Mounjaro by as much as 170%. The US pharmaceutical giant says the increase will align UK costs with those in other developed nations and address “pricing disparities.”The NHS will not be affected for now. The price surge is aimed at private patients and providers, who often negotiate discounts behind closed clinic doors. But for those paying out of pocket, the jump is steep, the highest monthly dose will soar from £122 to £330, while lower doses will rise by 45 to 138 per cent.For many, this is more than a wallet shock. It could mean rethinking whether to continue treatment, especially since Mounjaro is often taken long term to maintain results. With so much at stake, here’s a closer look at what the drug does, who it’s for, and the benefits and risks to consider.What is Mounjaro?Mounjaro, the brand name for tirzepatide, is an injectable medication, notes Diabetes UK, and is approved in the UK for type 2 diabetes and, more recently, for obesity. It is part of a newer class of drugs that not only control blood sugar but also promote significant weight loss.Unlike earlier medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, both of which were based on semaglutide, Mounjaro works by activating two hormone receptors: GLP-1 and GIP, at the same time. This “dual agonist” approach appears to produce greater weight loss than single-receptor drugs.How Does it Work?Mounjaro increases levels of natural hormones called incretins. These hormones help the body release more insulin when needed, reduce glucose production by the liver, and slow digestion so you feel fuller for longer.The result is a two-pronged effect:Better blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetesReduced appetite and calorie intake leading to weight lossIn clinical trials, people taking the highest dose (15 mg weekly) lost up to 21 per cent of their body weight. That’s on par with some bariatric surgeries, but without the invasive procedure.Who Can Take Mounjaro?For type 2 diabetesAdults aged 18 and over who have not been able to control blood sugar with other medications, or who cannot tolerate them due to side effects or other conditions.Typically prescribed if the person also has a BMI of 35 kg/m² or higher with obesity-related health issues, though exceptions exist for those with lower BMIs in certain ethnic groups or specific medical needs.For obesityIn England and Wales: Recommended for people with a BMI of at least 35 kg/m² and related health conditions, including type 2 diabetes. Lower thresholds apply for some ethnic groups.In Scotland: Available for people with a BMI of at least 30 kg/m² plus one obesity-related condition.The BenefitsSignificant weight loss that can improve or reverse obesity-related health problemsImproved blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetesOnce-weekly dosing with a pre-filled pen for convenienceMay reduce risk of complications from diabetes, though more research is ongoing for cardiovascular benefitsThe Risks and Side EffectsLike other drugs in its class, Mounjaro can cause:Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, indigestionRisk of low blood sugar if taken with insulin or certain other diabetes drugsPossible risk of high blood sugar if insulin doses are cut too quicklyIn animal studies, an increased risk of thyroid tumors, whether this applies to humans is still unknownLong-term safety data is limited since the drug is relatively new. Some people may also regain weight if they stop taking it.Cost and Access ChallengesOn the NHS, Mounjaro is free for those eligible under treatment guidelines, but rollout is gradual due to costs and support service limitations. Access for weight loss alone is prioritized for those with the highest clinical need.Private prescriptions vary in cost and availability. After the September price hike, the financial burden will be significant for many patients, especially since ongoing treatment is often required to maintain benefits.Life Without the JabIf the higher cost puts Mounjaro out of reach, lifestyle changes can still deliver meaningful results. Strategies that mimic some of its effects include:Eating high-protein meals to promote satietyChoosing high-fibre foods to slow digestionLimiting ultra-processed foods that spike blood sugarRegular physical activity to improve insulin sensitivityWhile these changes may not replicate Mounjaro’s dramatic effects, they can still help manage weight and blood sugar without a prescription.
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