Both Wegovy and Mounjaro are given as weekly injections via pre-filled pens that can be self-administered into the upper arm, thigh or stomach. They work as an appetite suppressant by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

The British government announced a multimillion dollar pharmaceutical partnership with Eli Lilly, including a trial that will study the impact of a weight-loss drug on work and productivity.

As for why it’s not approved for weight loss in the UK, Dr Kayat added: “It works by helping to regulate your appetite and reduce cravings and hunger. But in the UK, it’s only supposed to be used for type 2 diabetes, and that’s in order to try and protect the resources for the type 2 diabetics.”

In response to a lawsuit, the FDA said it would reconsider its previous decision to remove tirzepatide, the active compound in the weight loss and diabetes drugs Mounjaro and Zepbound, from its shortage list.

The UK government starts a trial offering weight loss drug Mounjaro to unemployed obese individuals to improve health and workforce reentry. The initiative is part of a five-year NHS strategy. Eli Lilly commits £279 million to address Britain's health challenges,

The FDA is weighing a decision that could stop compounding pharmacies from legally making cheaper versions of Mounjaro and Zepbound.