Women aged 30-49 are the largest demographic group using private GLP-1 prescriptions in the UK. Almost 8 in 10 private prescriptions are for women, and many are navigating weight changes during perimenopause and menopause. Here's what you need to know.1
Why menopause affects weight
The hormonal changes of menopause — particularly declining oestrogen — affect how and where the body stores fat, metabolic rate, appetite regulation, sleep quality (which impacts hunger hormones), and muscle mass. Many women find that weight management strategies that worked before menopause become less effective, which is why GLP-1 medications have become attractive to this group.
Are GLP-1 medications licensed for menopause weight gain?
No — GLP-1 medications are not specifically licensed for menopausal weight gain. They're licensed for obesity and overweight with comorbidities, regardless of the cause. However, if you meet the standard eligibility criteria (BMI ≥30, or ≥27 with comorbidities for private treatment), the fact that your weight gain is menopause-related doesn't exclude you.
The Mounjaro-HRT interaction
This is particularly relevant for menopausal women. Mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of oral HRT — including oral progesterone like Utrogestan, which protects the endometrium. The MHRA recommends considering non-oral HRT alternatives (patches, gels, Mirena coil) if you're taking Mounjaro. Wegovy does not carry the same warning. See our Mounjaro and HRT guide for full details.
Access and eligibility
The eligibility criteria are the same as for anyone else — BMI-based thresholds for NHS or private access. Use our eligibility checker to see whether you might qualify. Private access is typically more straightforward, with lower BMI thresholds than the NHS.