Chemist4U, one of the UK’s popular online pharmacies, has come under fire after announcing significant price increases for the weight loss medication Mounjaro, set to take effect from September 1st, 2025. The new pricing structure has sparked frustration among patients who rely on these treatments, many of whom have taken to social media to voice their concerns.
The controversy began when a user on Reddit shared a comparison chart of current versus projected prices, highlighting steep increases across nearly all dosage levels of Mounjaro. According to the shared data, starting doses will rise by over 20%, with higher strengths seeing jumps of up to 90%.
Below is a comparison of current prices for Wegovy and Mounjaro, along with Mounjaro’s projected costs from September 1st:
| Dose Strength | Wegovy (Current Price) | Mounjaro (Current Price) | Mounjaro (After Sept. 1) |
| Starting Dose | 0.25mg – £99 | 2.5mg – £139 | £169.99 |
| Dose Strength 2 | 0.5mg – £109 | 5mg – £149 | £197.99 |
| Dose Strength 3 | 1mg – £119 | 7.5mg – £179 | £269.99 |
| Dose Strength 4 | 1.7mg – £169 | 10mg – £189 | £309.99 |
| Dose Strength 5 | 2.4mg – £199 | 12.5mg – £199 | £326.99 |
| Dose Strength 6 | N/A | 15mg – £199 | £353.99 |
The most striking increase is at the 7.5mg dose of Mounjaro, which will jump from £179 to £269.99, a nearly 51% hike. The highest 15mg dose will also see a substantial rise from £199 to £353.99. For many patients using Mounjaro as part of a long-term weight management plan, these increases could be financially devastating.
Mounjaro, containing the active ingredient tirzepatide, is a relatively new entrant in the obesity treatment market but has quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness in weight loss and blood sugar control. Its competitor, Wegovy (semaglutide), has also seen high demand, though its pricing has remained more stable.
Experts note that the increased demand, supply constraints, and manufacturing costs might be contributing factors to the price rise. However, critics argue that the scale of Chemist4U’s projected hikes suggests a profit-driven motive rather than a response to external pressures.
At the time of writing, Chemist4U has not released an official statement addressing the backlash. The company’s website lists the updated prices but does not provide a detailed explanation for the changes.
The upcoming price changes could force patients to reconsider their treatment plans. Some may switch to alternatives like Wegovy, though supply shortages have previously made this difficult. Others may attempt to source medication from overseas pharmacies, a practice that carries risks due to potential quality and regulatory issues.
Healthcare professionals are urging patients to consult their doctors before making any changes to their medication.
This controversy reflects a growing tension in the healthcare sector over the cost of new weight-loss medications. While pharmaceutical innovation has brought highly effective treatments to market, affordability remains a major barrier. Unless addressed, price hikes like those announced by Chemist4U risk limiting access to life-changing therapies for many who need them most.
As September 1st approaches, all eyes will be on Chemist4U and whether public pressure might lead to a reconsideration of these steep increases.
