Why the wait for weight loss jabs on the NHS?

Sky News Daily

Tuesday, 5 August 2025 - 17 minutes

The "King Kong" of weight loss drugs, Mounjaro, should finally be available on the NHS. So, why are thousands of patients still waiting for a treatment that could transform their lives? Mounjaro was meant to be rolled out across the NHS in England from 23 June for those with the highest clinical need. However, a Sky News investigation has found it is only available in eight out of 42 NHS integrated care boards, prompting accusations of a "postcode lottery". Many providers will not make it available until autumn, while nearly half of NHS boards said they will cap the number of people they treat due to a lack of funding. Our science and medical correspondent, Thomas Moore, joins Niall Paterson on the Sky News Daily podcast as he investigates how the shortfall will cost the NHS and wider society. Gary, who weighs 25 stone (159kg) and has several obesity-related conditions, speaks to Thomas about the implications of being told Mounjaro is not available in his area. Producer: Emma-Rae Woodhouse and Emily Hulme Editor: Mike Bovill