Why has the price of Mounjaro increased?

The 2025 Mounjaro price rise—what’s behind it, and what are your options?

The price of Mounjaro has increased for everyone in the UK from September 2025. If you’re a patient, carer, or healthcare professional, you’re probably asking: “Why has the price of Mounjaro increased?” In this blog, we’ll break down the reasons, what it means for your weight loss journey, and—crucially—how alternatives like Wegovy could help you stay on track.

Five key takeaways

• The price of Mounjaro has increased for all UK providers from September 2025, due to manufacturer decisions, global market alignment and yes, Donald Trump [1].
• Supply shortages and unprecedented worldwide demand have also contributed to the price hike [2].
• Wegovy is a safe, effective, and now more affordable alternative for many patients [5].
• Switching between Mounjaro and Wegovy can be smooth, with your clinical team’s support [4].
• Always buy from regulated UK pharmacies—avoid unregulated sellers to protect your health [5].

Why has the price of Mounjaro increased?

Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, raised the UK price to match those in Europe and other developed countries. This isn’t a decision of Courier Pharmacy—it affects every UK provider, both online and on the high street [1].

Why are Mounjaro prices rising everywhere?

Several factors are at play:

• Manufacturer alignment: Eli Lilly is bringing UK prices in line with Europe and other developed markets [1].
• Production costs: It’s more expensive to make and distribute Mounjaro post-pandemic.
• Global demand: Mounjaro’s success for weight loss and diabetes has led to worldwide shortages [2].
• Stock limitations: Pharmacies can only supply limited quantities to ensure fair access for all patients.
• Pressure from Donald Trump [12].

Increased global demand for Mounjaro

Global demand for Mounjaro has surged, especially as more people seek effective weight loss treatments [2]. Stock shortages and higher manufacturing costs have also contributed to the issue [11].

Eli Lilly admits pressure from Donald Trump led to price increases for Mounjaro.

Eli Lilly, the company behind Mounjaro, has apologised to UK patients who are struggling to get their medicine after a sharp price increase.

The company admitted that political pressure from former US President Donald Trump was one of the reasons for the price hike [12].

Donald Trump is upset with the cheaper UK prices for Mounjaro

Trump had criticised how much Americans pay for medicines compared to other countries, even writing to major drug companies—including Eli Lilly—demanding they lower US prices and make things fairer for Americans. He pointed out that people in London could get the “fat shot drug” for $88, while in New York it cost $1,300 [13].

Eli Lily buckles under pressure from Donald Trump.

In response to this pressure, Eli Lilly stated that they aimed to equalise prices across countries.

From 1 September, the price of Mounjaro’s highest dose in the UK will jump from £122 to £330—a 170% increase—while other doses will also rise, but not as steeply.

Mounjaro price increase table

Although Eli Lilly says NHS patients won’t be affected, most people using Mounjaro in the UK buy it privately, so they will feel the price rise the most.

The company’s spokesperson explained that the original lower price in the UK was set to help patients access the product quickly through the NHS; however, prices are now being raised to match those in Europe and the US.

Eli Lily UK Pharmacy Deal

Eli Lilly has offered UK pharmacies a deal to reduce the maximum price hike by £80, but says it cannot control what pharmacies ultimately charge patients [14].

The company also apologised to those who have had trouble obtaining their medicine and said they are working with the NHS and private clinics to ensure a steady supply.

They are concerned that some people might turn to the black market if they can’t get Mounjaro through official routes, especially since some patients have tried to stockpile the drug.

Mounjaro and the NHS

The UK government has stated that NHS patients will continue to have access to Mounjaro based on clinical need, and that private prices are up to Eli Lilly and private providers.

This dramatic increase in the price of Mounjaro raises significant concerns about which patients will be most affected, particularly as the cost of the highest dose is set to nearly triple in the UK.

What does the price change mean for you?

If you’re using Mounjaro, you’ll notice the price change from 1 September 2025. This could affect your treatment plan, budget, or even your choice of medicine [1].

The good news? There are safe and effective alternatives—like Wegovy—that can help you achieve your weight loss goals without breaking the bank [5].

How much is the price increasing and when?

The price change takes effect on 1 September 2025. While each pharmacy sets its own final price, all reflect the manufacturer’s increase [1].

Courier Pharmacy remains committed to offering fair and transparent pricing, even as wholesale costs continue to rise.

What if my dose isn’t in stock?

Shortages have been common. If your usual strength is unavailable, you may need to wait a few days or consider alternative options. It’s generally safe to extend the gap between injections for up to 14 days, but ideally no longer than 7 days. As always, check with your prescriber first [2].

Exploring Wegovy as an alternative

With Mounjaro’s price increase and supply issues, many patients are considering Wegovy as an alternative. Here’s why it’s a solid option:

• Proven effectiveness: Wegovy is a weekly injection like Mounjaro, and is clinically proven to support significant weight loss—even if average results are slightly less than Mounjaro’s [5].
• Availability: Wegovy is now more widely available in the UK, and many providers—including Courier Pharmacy—have made it more affordable [5].
• How it works: Wegovy acts on the GLP-1 receptor, helping to control appetite and support healthy weight loss [7].
• Switching: Your clinical team can help you switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy safely, matching your dose and supporting you through the transition [4].
• Side effects: Like all medicines, Wegovy can cause side effects, but most people tolerate it well. Always check for the latest information and consult with your clinician [8].

How does switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy work?

Switching is easier than you might think. Your clinical team will:

• Assess your current dose and progress
• Recommend a comparable Wegovy dose
• Support you through the transition, so you don’t lose your progress [4].

You won’t need to start again or take a break—your journey continues, just with a different medicine.

Look out for a blog on guidance on how to switch from Mounjaro to Wegovy.

Is it safe to purchase Mounjaro or Wegovy from sources other than the authorised distributor?

No. Only buy from regulated UK pharmacies. Unregulated sellers may offer counterfeit, unsafe, or ineffective products [5]. Protect your health and your wallet by sticking with trusted providers.

What support does Courier Pharmacy offer?

Courier Pharmacy offers:

• Genuine, UK-licensed Mounjaro and Wegovy
• Experienced clinicians to help you switch, adjust your dose, or manage side effects
• Guidance on stock updates, alternatives, and ongoing support

What’s the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy?

• Mounjaro: Works on two hormonal receptors (GLP-1 and GIP), with higher average weight loss in studies [5].
• Wegovy: Works on one receptor (GLP-1), but is still highly effective and may be more accessible for some patients [7].

Both are weekly injections, both are prescription-only, and both can be part of a successful weight management plan.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Why has the price of Mounjaro increased?

Eli Lilly raised prices to match those in Europe and other developed countries, and global demand, combined with supply chain issues, has driven up costs [1].

Can I still get Mounjaro at the old price?

No, all UK providers must follow the manufacturer’s new pricing and stock limitations [1].

What are my options if I can’t afford Mounjaro?

Discuss alternatives, such as Wegovy, with your clinical team. They can help you switch safely and find the most effective, affordable treatment for you [5].

Is it safe to delay my injection due to stock issues?

It’s generally safe to extend the gap between injections for up to 14 days, but ideally not more than 7 days. Always check with your healthcare provider [2].

Will I lose progress if I switch to WeGovy?

No, your clinical team will adjust your dose and support you through the transition, ensuring you won’t lose your progress [4].

What makes Mounjaro different from Wegovy?

Mounjaro works on two hormonal receptors (GLP-1 and GIP), while Wegovy works on GLP-1 only. Mounjaro may deliver greater weight loss for some, but Wegovy remains highly effective [5].

How can Courier Pharmacy help me?

Courier Pharmacy provides genuine, UK-licensed medicines, expert clinical support, and guidance on switching treatments or managing side effects [2].

What should I do if I run out of Mounjaro?

Contact your pharmacy or clinical team for advice. It may be possible to safely extend your dosing interval or switch to an alternative [2].

Is Mounjaro still effective after the price increase?

Yes, Mounjaro remains an effective treatment for weight loss and diabetes. If cost is an issue, discuss alternatives with your healthcare provider [3].

This information is for general guidance only. For medical advice, please consult your doctor or healthcare provider.

References

• [1] BBC News. (2025) Mounjaro price increase: Eli Lilly’s explanation. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvg3ykg4jrro#:~:text=Eli%20Lilly%20originally%20said%20the,if%20they%20didn’t%20act (Accessed: 29 August 2025).
• [2] Courier Pharmacy. (2025) Mounjaro side effects. Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/mounjaro-side-effects-2/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [3] Courier Pharmacy. (2025) Can you drink alcohol while taking Mounjaro? Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/can-you-drink-alcohol-while-taking-mounjaro-2/#h-how-does-mounjaro-cause-weight-loss (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [4] Courier Pharmacy. (2025) Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro? Available at: https://courierpharmacy.co.uk/why-am-i-not-losing-weight-on-mounjaro/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [5] Medical Mojo. (2025) Mounjaro versus Wegovy. Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/mounjaro-versus-wegovy/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [6] Medical Mojo. (2025) Is Mounjaro better for weight loss than Wegovy and Ozempic? Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/is-mounjaro-better-for-weight-loss-than-wegovy-and-ozempic/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [7] Medical Mojo. (2025) How does Wegovy work? Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/how-does-wegovy-work/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [8] Medical Mojo. (2025) Wegovy side effects: what are they? Available at: https://medicalmojo.co.uk/wegovy-side-effects-what-are-they/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [9] APC Labs. (2024) Can semaglutide make you tired? Available at: https://apclabs.co.uk/2024/03/20/can-semaglutide-make-you-tired/ (Accessed: 27 August 2025).
• [10] Electronic Medicines Compendium (emc). (2025) Mounjaro 2.5mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen: Patient Information Leaflet. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/15481/pil#gref (Accessed: 29 August 2025).
• [11] BMJ. (2025) Mounjaro: UK price rise for obesity drug sparks concern. Available at: https://www.bmj.com/content/390/bmj.r1776 (Accessed: 29 August 2025).
• [12] ITV News. (2025) Mounjaro manufacturer admits pressure from Trump contributed to price hike. Available at: https://www.itv.com/news/2025-08-28/mounjaro-manufacturer-admits-pressure-from-trump-contributed-to-price-hike (Accessed: 29 August 2025).
• [13] Reuters. (2025) Trump calls out weight-loss drugs in target price cut push. Available at: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/trump-calls-out-weight-loss-drugs-target-price-cut-push-2025-05-12/ (Accessed: 29 August 2025).
• [14] BBC News. (2025) Mounjaro weight loss drug price to rise sharply in the UK. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cvg3ykg4jrro (Accessed: 29 August 2025)