Weight loss injections are mostly used by women and middle‑income people.

An analysis of 113,630 private prescriptions found about 80% of users were women and uptake was highest among people aged 30–49; people in the most deprived areas were around a third less likely to be receiving the injections and often started treatment at higher BMIs.

New research examines who is obtaining private prescriptions for weight loss injections in the UK. The Health Foundation, working with online provider Voy, analysed 113,630 prescriptions from November 2024 to October 2025. The medications examined are glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), which help people feel fuller by mimicking a natural hormone. The study was published amid a phased NHS rollout of some of these drugs and conversations about equitable access. Study findings: - Around 80% of private users were women, and uptake was highest among people aged 30–49, with a sharp decline after age 60. - The analysis covered 113,630 private prescriptions between November 2024 and October 2025. - People living in the most deprived areas were about one-third less likely to be receiving the injections than those in the least deprived areas. - Among 30–49-year-olds, roughly 45% in the most deprived areas began treatment with a BMI of 35 or above, compared with about 30% in the least deprived areas. - NHS England has a phased rollout of Mounjaro over up to 12 years, and about 220,000 patients were prioritised in the first three years, meaning many current users obtain the drugs privately. Summary: The research indicates private use of GLP-1 weight loss drugs is concentrated among women and middle-income groups while people in more deprived areas are underrepresented and often begin treatment at higher BMIs. NHS England says it is prioritising those with the greatest clinical need and is exploring ways to broaden access as the rollout continues.