UK Price Rise Likely for Mounjaro – What You Need to Know

By Dr Mark Larkin, PhD, Medical Director, Pharmacy Price Hound

Introduction

In August 2025, reports circulated that Eli Lilly would increase global prices for Mounjaro (tirzepatide). For UK patients relying on private prescriptions, this raised immediate concerns about affordability and access.

At this stage, the exact scale of the rise was unclear, but pharmacies began preparing patients for changes in the months ahead.

August 2025 Price Snapshot

Key trend: At the time, prices remained broadly stable, but all indicators suggested increases were imminent.

Market Context: Why a Price Rise Was Expected

• Global alignment: U.S. pricing pressures and regulatory scrutiny signalled worldwide adjustments.
• High demand: Limited supply meant Lilly had little incentive to keep prices flat.
• Competitive tension: With semaglutide already cheaper, Lilly faced a balancing act between revenue and patient retention.

Dr Mark Larkin, PhD

“In August 2025, it was clear that Mounjaro prices were unlikely to stay flat for long. The key concern was how much of the increase would be passed directly to UK patients, and whether supplier discounts could cushion the blow.” 

Patient Guidance at the Time

1. Monitor pharmacy updates – many providers flagged price changes early.
2. Pre-order stock – where possible, patients were advised to secure supplies at August pricing.
3. Consider alternatives – semaglutide remained a cheaper, though not identical, option.
4. Stay informed – regulatory announcements and pharmacy communications were key to planning ahead.

FAQs

Was the August 2025 price rise immediate?
No. Pharmacies reported that the changes would phase in over late 2025, though patients were warned to expect higher prices soon.

Could NHS patients be affected?
Not directly. At the time, Mounjaro remained highly restricted on the NHS. Private patients carried the burden.

Was there any way to avoid higher costs?
Shopping around, pre-ordering, or considering semaglutide were the main strategies discussed.

Conclusion

The August 2025 warnings about a Mounjaro price rise reflected both global pressures and UK market realities. While the exact increases were not yet confirmed, the trend was clear: affordability would remain the central challenge for UK patients.

Pharmacy Price Hound continues to monitor these changes, ensuring patients can make safe, informed, and cost-effective decisions.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Patients should always consult a licensed prescriber before starting, stopping, or switching medication.

Author & Sources

Author: Dr Mark Larkin, PhD

• Medical Director, Pharmacy Price Hound
• Academic publications in health economics

Primary Sources:

• Lilly press statements (August 2025)
• NICE NG28 Diabetes Guidelines
• NHS Prescribing Data
• Dr Fox, Chemist4U, Oxford Online, Superdrug Online pricing (August 2025)