Mounjaro in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia: Availability, Use, and Cost Trends

Mounjaro in the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia: Availability, Use, and Cost Trends

Mounjaro has quickly become one of the most discussed prescription medications in recent years, especially as global interest in GLP-1 weight-loss and diabetes treatments continues to rise. Originally approved for type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro is now at the center of conversations about obesity treatment, healthcare affordability, and prescription drug access across major Western countries.

This article explores how Mounjaro is used, accessed, and regulated in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, highlighting key differences that shape public demand.

What Is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide, a once-weekly injectable medication developed by Eli Lilly. It is classified as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it targets two hormonal pathways involved in blood sugar control and appetite regulation.

Although officially approved for type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro is widely recognized for its significant weight-loss effects, which has driven growing interest beyond its original indication.

Mounjaro in the United States 🇺🇸

The United States is currently the largest market for Mounjaro.

Availability

Approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes

Prescription-only medication

Widely available through retail and online pharmacies

Usage trends

Frequently prescribed off-label for weight management

Strong demand driven by obesity prevalence and media coverage

High visibility on social platforms and healthcare forums

Cost considerations

One of the most expensive markets

Insurance coverage varies widely

Out-of-pocket costs remain a barrier for many patients

The U.S. healthcare system’s pricing structure plays a major role in shaping access and public debate around GLP-1 medications.

Mounjaro in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧

In the UK, access to Mounjaro is more structured and tightly regulated.

Availability

Approved by the MHRA

Prescription-only

Limited NHS coverage, primarily for diabetes treatment

Usage trends

Weight-loss prescriptions are more restricted

Many patients access GLP-1 therapies through private clinics

Medical oversight is emphasized

Cost considerations

Lower prices than the U.S.

Private prescriptions still represent a significant personal expense

The UK approach prioritizes clinical eligibility and cost-effectiveness, which limits widespread access.

Mounjaro in Canada 🇨🇦

Canada represents a middle ground between the U.S. and UK models.

Availability

Approved by Health Canada

Prescription-only

Available through licensed pharmacies

Usage trends

Growing interest for weight management

Provincial drug coverage varies

Strong emphasis on physician approval

Cost considerations

More affordable than the U.S.

Still costly without insurance or provincial support

Canada’s healthcare system offers broader price controls, but access still depends heavily on coverage status.

Mounjaro in Australia 🇦🇺

Australia has seen increasing attention around GLP-1 medications, including Mounjaro.

Availability

Approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)

Prescription-only

Supply constraints have affected availability at times

Usage trends

Primarily prescribed for diabetes

Weight-loss use is more cautiously approached

Strong regulatory oversight

Cost considerations

Prices are regulated

Limited subsidies compared to older diabetes medications

Australia’s system prioritizes safety, regulation, and supply control over rapid expansion.

Why Demand for Mounjaro Is Rising Globally

Across all four countries, similar factors are driving interest:

Rising obesity rates

Increased awareness of GLP-1 medications

Media coverage of celebrity usage

Limited effectiveness of traditional weight-loss methods

At the same time, healthcare systems are grappling with cost, long-term safety data, and equitable access.

Key Differences at a Glance

CountryAvailabilityCost LevelWeight-Loss AccessUSAVery highVery highWidely off-labelUKModerateMediumMostly privateCanadaModerateMediumPhysician-ledAustraliaLimitedMediumHighly regulated