UK Witnesses a 74% Rise in Mounjaro Searches as NHS GP Rollout Commences
New and Exciting Weight Loss Drug Takes UK by Storm
Google searches for the weight-loss drug Mounjaro skyrocketed by a whopping 74% across the UK on June 23, 2025, coinciding with the start of NHS prescriptions through general practitioners in England. This antidiabetic medication, known as tirzepatide and manufactured by Eli Lilly, is making waves for its potential to help users shed up to 20% of their body weight by curbing appetite.
Google Trends data analyzed by QR Code Generator reveals a national surge in interest within 24 hours of the rollout, with hotspots in Widnes, Hartlepool, Arley, Dudley, and Sunderland. The growing public curiosity is evident as people explore the drug's availability and eligibility rules.
During the first year, eligible Mounjaro recipients will have a BMI above 40 or above 37.5 for those from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic backgrounds. They must also have at least four obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, or obstructive sleep apnea.
Interestingly, "Mounjaro criteria NHS" searches soared by 250% over the past week, while "Mounjaro NHS Scotland" increased by 130%. Curiously, "what's my BMI" queries rose by 50%, suggesting many are checking their eligibility.
Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator Pro S.L., commented on the findings. He stated that the NHS rollout of Mounjaro prescriptions through GPs is a significant step in managing diabetes and treating obesity in the UK. However, he cautioned that the launch may tempt those who do not meet the criteria or are frustrated by long wait times to seek the drug from less reputable sources. He underscored the risk of misuse without medical oversight, noting potential serious side effects if users are dishonest about their BMI or medical history. He further emphasized that scammers may offer fake prescriptions and urged for clear public health messaging and strong regulation of the online marketplace to prevent exploitation.
Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, acknowledged the potential benefits of weight loss drugs but expressed concerns about the rollout's impact on workload and the need for training to manage these treatments safely. She underscored that these drugs should not be seen as a silver bullet for weight loss.
Meanwhile, Olivier Picard, chairman of the National Pharmacy Association, noted the rising demand for weight loss jabs. He highlighted that more GPs are directing patients back to pharmacies after initial inquiries to access treatments privately.
The NHS rollout includes wraparound care such as dietary and lifestyle support to help ensure sustainable outcomes for patients.
In summary, the eligibility criteria for NHS prescriptions of Mounjaro in England (BMI ≥ 40, at least 4 weight-related health conditions) are more stringent compared to Scotland (BMI ≥ 30, at least 1 obesity-related condition), reflecting separate guidelines and phased rollouts. It's essential for individuals to understand the specific criteria for their region and prioritize their health safely.
- The new weight-loss drug Mounjaro, known for helping users manage their weight and curb appetite, is gaining attention in the UK, not just for its potential benefits, but also due to its implications for managing chronic diseases like type-2 diabetes.
- As more people become eligible for Mounjaro prescriptions through the NHS, especially those with obesity-related medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or sleep apnea, there is increasing interest in understanding the drug's nutritional impact and how it can be integrated into a broader health-and-wellness strategy, including weight management and lifestyle changes.
- Given the potential side effects and the need for medical oversight, it's crucial for individuals to approach Mounjaro responsibly, focusing on getting accurate information about the drug from reliable sources, such as their healthcare providers, and adhering to the prescribed guidelines for its use and safety.