NHS Wales fast-tracks weight loss drug for urgent cases

People facing time-sensitive surgery, organ transplants, or serious medical conditions will now have quicker access to the weight loss drug tirzepatide (Mounjaro) on the NHS in Wales.

The medication will be available to those awaiting urgent operations or transplants, women seeking fertility treatment, and people with severe asthma, severe obstructive sleep apnoea, or cancer where weight loss would improve treatment outcomes.

Previously, the drug was only accessible through specialist weight management services. The new arrangements ensure people with urgent clinical needs can access treatment more quickly whilst wider access plans are being developed.

Around 186,000 people in Wales could potentially meet the eligibility criteria following NICE’s approval of tirzepatide in December 2024.

Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: “There is considerable demand for specialist weight management services and growing pressure for access to these medications through the NHS.

“To help meet demand in a sustainable way, we are building capacity and capability, while ensuring people with the most urgent clinical need can access treatment without delay.

“This approach recognises that some people need access now.”

The Welsh Government is developing a comprehensive new model to expand capacity across specialist, primary care and community settings.