UK's weight loss drug divide leaves deprived areas behind despite higher obesity

Around 2.4 million people in the UK now use weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Mounjaro, known as GLP-1s. These injections help users feel fuller but remain out of reach for many due to cost and NHS restrictions. Access appears uneven, with wealthier areas seeing higher uptake despite greater obesity rates in deprived regions.

The NHS currently restricts Wegovy to patients with weight-related health issues and a high BMI. Mounjaro, another GLP-1 drug, is being rolled out gradually over up to 12 years. However, even eligible patients report difficulties obtaining prescriptions.

Most users pay privately, with monthly costs around £200. This financial barrier hits harder in deprived areas, where obesity levels are highest. Data shows people in these regions are about a third less likely to access the drugs than those in wealthier areas.

The majority of prescriptions—almost 80%—go to women, despite men having higher obesity rates. The highest uptake is among adults aged 30 to 49, with use dropping sharply after 60. Those in deprived areas also tend to start treatment at heavier weights, suggesting delayed access.

No government measures have been announced to widen NHS access for financially disadvantaged groups. The current system leaves many without options, deepening health inequalities.

Weight loss drugs remain largely unaffordable for those outside private healthcare. With NHS restrictions and no plans to expand access, deprived communities face greater barriers despite higher obesity rates. The gap between need and availability continues to widen.