Is Mounjaro or Wegovy Right for You? A GP's Honest Eligibility Guide
Before any prescription, a proper eligibility check covers BMI, health history and contraindications. Here's what a GP actually reviews.
Who GLP-1s are designed for
GLP-1 medications were originally developed for type 2 diabetes and are now licensed for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27+ with weight-related health conditions (such as hypertension, dyslipidaemia or obstructive sleep apnoea). In practice in Dubai, doctors will assess BMI alongside body composition, metabolic markers and your weight-loss history before agreeing treatment is appropriate.
What a proper eligibility assessment covers
BMI and waist circumference. Full medical history — including any history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or significant gastrointestinal conditions. Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) — both contraindications to GLP-1s. Current medications and potential interactions. Pregnancy plans (GLP-1s are not for pregnancy, breastfeeding or those planning pregnancy in the near term). Baseline bloods: kidney, liver, HbA1c, lipids, B12, ferritin and thyroid screening where indicated.
Good signs you're a fit
You've tried sustainable lifestyle changes and hit a wall. You have weight-related health concerns your GP has flagged. You're looking for a structured, long-term medical approach — not a 4-week quick fix. You're prepared to engage with monthly reviews and follow-up bloods.
Reasons to slow down and discuss carefully
A history of pancreatitis or significant gallbladder disease. Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN2. Significant GI conditions (gastroparesis, severe IBD). Recent bariatric surgery (requires specialist input). Pregnancy, breastfeeding or planning pregnancy. Other appetite-modifying medications. None of these are automatic disqualifications — they're conversations to have with a doctor who has time for them.
What the free 15-minute call covers
At Aafiyah, the first conversation is a no-obligation 15-minute GP call. We talk through your goals, weight history, current health, medication list, and what you've tried before. By the end you'll have a clear answer: yes, this is worth exploring with baseline bloods; or no, here's something more appropriate for your situation. Either way, no prescription is issued until your full assessment is complete and you've given informed consent.
The bottom line
Eligibility isn't a tick-box exercise. It's a real clinical conversation. If a provider offers you a script after a 2-minute online form, that's a warning sign, not a feature. Book the call, do the bloods, then decide — with all the information in front of you.
Frequently asked
Do I need a BMI above 30 to qualify for Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Licensing supports BMI 30+, or 27+ with weight-related conditions. In practice, your GP will assess your full clinical picture — BMI alone isn't the only factor.
What's the most common reason GLP-1s aren't appropriate?
Pregnancy or pregnancy planning is the most common deferral. After that, history of pancreatitis, gallbladder issues and certain thyroid conditions are the main contraindications a GP screens for.