Weight Loss Medications
There are three medications that have been approved by The Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) to aid in the treatment of obesity and weight management. The first two medications that have been approved are called GLP-1 therapies (glucagon-like peptide receptor agonists). The third is a ‘dual agent’ medication known as GLP-1 combined with glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor agonists (GIP RA).
Liraglutide (Saxenda®). The medication is a GLP-1 therapy. It has been approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium. There is a global shortage of this medication therefore NHS Lanarkshire is not allowed to start anyone on this medication.
Semaglutide (Wegovy®). This medication is a GLP-1 therapy. It has been approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium, however it is not on NHS Lanarkshire’s prescription list.
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®). This medication is the dual agent. It has recently been approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium. NHS Lanarkshire is now able to prescribe this medication through the Lanarkshire Weight Management and Healthy Lifestyle Service (LWMS) on a very limited basis, as part of treatment in exceptional circumstances and used alongside the relevant programme of weight management support. This is not issued from GPs. Referrals to diabetes service is unchanged.
Mounjaro update – 15/8/25
We are aware of reports in the media about the upcoming price changes to Mounjaro. Our service does not anticipate any changes to any treatment plans for patients in clinical care pathways who are currently being prescribed Mounjaro. We expect all Mounjaro prescriptions to continue as normal and we will work to avoid any supply issues.
We understand that recent changes may be worrying for those currently using Mounjaro. Prescriptions for this weight-loss medication within our service are only offered as part of a structured clinical weight management programme, delivered alongside the appropriate support. The current eligibility criteria for clinical weight management care pathways and associated support will remain unchanged.
We currently don’t accept any referrals specifically for these medications. We will update with any further changes.
NHS Lanarkshire does not recommend or endorse the purchase of weight loss medications privately.
Despite the service not currently receiving referrals for weight loss medication; referrals are still welcome for those seeking a weight management intervention. All referrals will be vetted against the current criteria and depending on clinical need, will be directed to either the Tier 3 ‘Healthier Together’ intervention, Tier 2.5 “Prevent” intervention or the Tier 2 community ‘Weigh to Go programme’’.
