Fatlos › Weight-loss medicines and surgery on the NHS
Weight-loss medicines and surgery on the NHS
For some people, diet and activity alone are not enough. The NHS can offer medicines or surgery in specific cases. This is an outline only, based on NHS and NICE information.
First, the basics
The NHS says a GP can advise on safe weight loss and refer you for treatment, and that you may be able to self-refer to local weight loss services. People who need more support may be referred to a specialist weight management service. Medicines and surgery are not offered to everyone and are decided between you and a healthcare professional, so this page does not recommend any treatment and gives no doses.
Weight-loss medicines
According to the NHS, whether you are eligible depends on your BMI and whether your weight affects other health conditions. The NHS names GLP-1 and GIP medicines (semaglutide, tirzepatide, liraglutide), which reduce appetite, and orlistat, which reduces how much fat the body absorbs from food. They are usually prescribed alongside a lower-calorie balanced diet and regular physical activity, and you should be offered support to maintain a healthy weight after stopping.
NICE has recommended tirzepatide on the NHS for adults with a high BMI and weight-related conditions (such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep apnoea, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes), with eligibility being widened in phases over several years. NICE's lower BMI thresholds apply for some ethnic backgrounds. Treatment is reviewed, and the clinician decides whether to continue if little weight has been lost after six months. Because the roll-out is phased, access varies by area and changes over time, so ask your GP what applies now.
- These medicines can have side effects and need monitoring.
- Stopping a medicine may lead to weight regain.
Be careful about buying weight-loss medicines online. Prescription-only medicines should only be supplied after a proper consultation by a registered pharmacy or prescriber, and fake or unlicensed products have caused harm.
Weight-loss (bariatric) surgery
The NHS describes surgery that makes the stomach smaller so you eat less. Its criteria are a BMI of 40 or over, or 35 or over with conditions such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure. For people from South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean backgrounds, the thresholds are 37.5 or over, or 32.5 to 37.4 with such conditions. The NHS says recovery after surgery typically takes 3 to 4 weeks after a 1 to 2 day hospital stay, with regular check-ups for 2 years. Surgery carries risks and needs lifelong changes to eating, so it is a major decision to discuss with a specialist team.
How do I find out what is available?
Ask your GP. They can tell you about the criteria and how to be referred. Waiting times and eligibility vary across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Our page on when to see a GP helps you prepare.
Private options
Some people pay privately. If you do, check that the clinic and prescriber are properly registered with the relevant regulator. We do not recommend providers.
Going on from here
Whatever you choose, eating well and being active remain important (eating well, activity). If you feel pressure or distress about weight, see support.
Questions to ask a specialist
- What are the benefits and risks for someone like me?
- What support will I have before and after?
- What happens if I stop?
- How long will treatment last, and how will progress be reviewed?
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice. Speak to your GP or pharmacist before making big changes, especially if you have a health condition, take medicines, are pregnant or are under 18.
Frequently asked questions
Can anyone get weight-loss injections on the NHS?
No. Eligibility depends on your BMI and health conditions, and access is being widened in phases, so it varies. Ask your GP.
Who can have weight-loss surgery on the NHS?
The NHS says a BMI of 40 or over, or 35 or over with a condition such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, with lower thresholds for some ethnic backgrounds.
Is it safe to buy weight-loss medicines online?
Only from a registered pharmacy after a proper consultation. Avoid sellers who do not ask about your health.