Can My GP Prescribe Mounjaro in NZ?

If you're wondering whether your regular GP can prescribe Mounjaro in New Zealand, here's what you need to know about prescribing pathways and how to access this medication.

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Can Any Doctor Prescribe Mounjaro?

Yes, any registered New Zealand medical practitioner can prescribe Mounjaro (tirzepatide) once it becomes commercially available. There's no requirement for specialist involvement.

However, not all GPs may be comfortable or experienced with prescribing weight loss medications. Some factors that affect whether your GP will prescribe include:

• Their familiarity with GLP-1/GIP medications
• Their practice's approach to weight management
• Time available for the required monitoring and follow-up
• Their clinical judgment about whether it's appropriate for you

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What Will Your GP Need to Assess?

Before prescribing Mounjaro, a doctor should assess:

• BMI eligibility: BMI ≥30, or BMI ≥27 with weight-related health conditions
• Medical history: Including thyroid conditions, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease
• Current medications: Especially diabetes medications and oral contraceptives
• Contraindications: Personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2
• Pregnancy status: Mounjaro is not suitable during pregnancy

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What If My GP Won't Prescribe?

If your GP declines to prescribe weight loss medication, they may:

• Not feel experienced enough with these medications
• Believe lifestyle approaches should be tried first
• Have concerns specific to your health situation
• Prefer to refer you to a specialist or weight management service

This doesn't mean you can't access treatment elsewhere. Options include:

• Asking for a referral to a specialist or weight management clinic
• Seeking a second opinion from another GP
• Using a telehealth service that specialises in weight management

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Telehealth Options in NZ

Telehealth services like Well Revolution provide an alternative pathway. Benefits include:

• Doctors experienced with GLP-1 medications
• No appointment wait times
• Ongoing monitoring and support
• Convenient chat-based consultations

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Questions to Ask Your Doctor

When discussing Mounjaro with your GP, consider asking:

• Are you comfortable prescribing GLP-1/GIP medications?
• What monitoring would you recommend?
• How would we manage any side effects?
• What's the follow-up schedule?
• If you don't prescribe these, can you refer me to someone who does?

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Will I Need Ongoing Prescriptions?

Yes. Mounjaro requires regular prescriptions (typically monthly or 3-monthly). Your prescriber will need to monitor your progress, manage any side effects, and adjust doses as needed.

This is why having a prescriber who's accessible and experienced with these medications matters for long-term success.

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Get Started with Well Revolution

At Well Revolution, our doctors specialise in weight loss treatment and are available seven days a week. Start a free consultation to discuss whether Mounjaro might be right for you.