‘You may have seen in the media that people living with obesity will be able to access Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for weight management in primary care. This means primary care settings can begin discussions with patients about whether Tirzepatide is appropriate to support weight loss alongside a healthy diet and physical activity. Bridge View Medical are working to set up services quickly and will be contacting eligible patients.
It will initially be available for a small number of patients who have a BMI of 40 or greater and FOUR of the following diagnosed health conditions:
– Type 2 diabetes
– Hypertension (high blood pressure) – requiring medication
– Cardiovascular disease – such as ischaemic heart disease, stroke, heart failure or peripheral vascular disease. (this does not include conditions such ad atrial fibrillation or valvular heart disease).
– Obstructive sleep apnoea – confirmed by a sleep study and requiring treatment, such as CPAP/
– Dyslipidaemia
It is important to note that eligible patients should be motivated to engage in a weight management programme that provides support with lifestyle changes. Evidence suggest Tirzepatide is more effective long term if used in combination with a healthy balanced diet and regular physical activity.