The manufacturer of the weight loss injection Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has announced a temporary pause in shipments to the UK. The decision, made by US pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly, comes just days before a dramatic 170% price increase set to take effect on 1 September 2025.
This move has sparked widespread concern among patients, pharmacies, and healthcare providers, with reports of shortages across the country.
US pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly has stated that the pause in UK shipments is intended to manage supply fairly and ensure patients already prescribed the medication can continue treatment without disruption.
The company confirmed that it has placed allocations and legal protections to prevent inappropriate bulk ordering by providers and pharmacies. Despite these measures, demand has soared in recent weeks, with many patients attempting to stockpile Mounjaro ahead of the steep price hike.
From 1 September, the cost of the highest-dose pen will rise from £122 to £330 per month—a significant increase likely to reshape how patients access treatment privately.
The pause has had immediate consequences. Major pharmacy chains such as Boots, Lloyds, Superdrug, and Well Pharmacy have reported difficulties in meeting demand:
Online providers have been equally affected. Pharmacy2U experienced a “significant short-term surge,†while Simple Online Pharmacy paused sales to new patients and limited existing patients to a four-week supply to prevent hoarding.
While many people in the UK rely on private prescriptions for Mounjaro, the medication was introduced on the NHS in June 2025. However, access is patchy—only 8 of the 42 NHS Integrated Care Boards in England currently provide the treatment.
Eli Lilly has confirmed that the price increase will not affect NHS supply, but limited rollout means many patients have no choice but to seek private access, where the upcoming rise will have a direct financial impact.
The pause in Mounjaro shipments has driven patients to consider alternatives such as Wegovy (semaglutide). Pharmacies and providers have reported a sharp rise in demand, with one supplier noting a 2,600% surge in sales.
At around £85 per month, Wegovy is a more affordable option compared to the new price of Mounjaro. However, patients switching from Mounjaro are advised to take a one-week break between medications to avoid complications.
Healthcare providers have also noted a 400% increase in demand for GLP-1 medications overall, reflecting how central these drugs have become to weight loss management.
The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has raised concerns about stockpiling and the risks posed by unregulated sellers.
For those currently prescribed Mounjaro, it is important to:
At the Private Medical Clinic, we understand the uncertainty this situation may cause. Our team of GPs and specialists can provide:
Dr. Ibrahim Mutlib (BMBS, BMedSci) is an experienced GP with specialist interests in mental health, gastrointestinal health, and respiratory medicine. A clinical leader and published author, he is passionate about innovative, patient-centred care that supports both physical and emotional wellbeing.
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