What is Mounjaro and How Does it Work for Weight Loss?

Losing weight can be a tough journey for many people. Sometimes, diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to achieve the results you want. That’s where Mounjaro comes in. This new medication is gaining attention because it helps people manage their weight more effectively.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is the brand name of the weight loss medication tirzepatide. It was approved for use in the UK in November 2023 and is available by prescription only.  

Mounjaro doses range from 2.5 mg to 15 mg, and prices vary depending on the dose. As a relatively new treatment option in the UK, Mounjaro is an additional tool for managing weight loss.

How does Mounjaro work?

Mounjaro operates by mimicking the effects of certain hormones in the body that are involved in appetite regulation and glucose metabolism. Specifically, it targets two key hormones: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide).

Appetite Regulation

By activating GLP-1 receptors, Mounjaro helps to reduce feelings of hunger and increase feelings of fullness after meals. This can decrease overall calorie intake, making it easier to stick to weight loss goals.

Blood Sugar Control

In addition to its effects on appetite, Mounjaro also helps regulate blood sugar levels. It enhances insulin secretion in response to meals, which helps to manage blood sugar spikes. This can work well for those with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing it.

Slower Gastric Emptying

Mounjaro slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, making you feel fuller and more satisfied for longer periods.

What is Mounjaro meant for?

Unlike other diabetes medications like Ozempic, which is licensed for diabetes management and off-label for weight loss, Mounjaro is primarily intended for weight management in adults who are struggling with obesity or being overweight.

Specifically, it is prescribed to those who have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher or a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition, such as:

• Type 2 Diabetes: Mounjaro can help manage weight while also supporting blood sugar control.
• Hypertension: High blood pressure is often linked to obesity, and weight loss can contribute to better blood pressure management.
• High Cholesterol: Reducing weight can help improve lipid profiles and lower cholesterol levels.
• Sleep Apnea: Weight loss can alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea, a condition that can be exacerbated by excess weight.

Mounjaro is not a standalone solution and must be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. This combination approach helps achieve sustainable and significant weight loss whilst improving overall health.

Should I consider taking Mounjaro?

Deciding whether to take Mounjaro is a personal choice that should be made in consultation with your prescriber. 

Eligibility

Mounjaro is typically recommended for adults with obesity (BMI of 30 or higher) or those who are overweight (BMI of 27 or higher) with at least one weight-related health condition, like people with type 2 diabetes. 

However, Mounjaro isn’t suitable for those with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or those diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It is also warned against patients who have had an allergic reaction to Mounjaro or any of its ingredients. 

Health Goals

Consider your weight loss goals and how they align with your overall health objectives. Mounjaro can be an effective tool for those who have struggled to lose body weight through diet and exercise alone. If you’re looking for additional support in your weight loss journey, this medication may be worth exploring.

Potential Benefits

Mounjaro, as a weight loss drug, has shown promising results in clinical studies, demonstrating significant weight loss in most patients. It can also help improve related health conditions, like diabetes management and high blood pressure. If these benefits resonate with your health needs, Mounjaro could be a beneficial option.

Side Effects and Risks

As with any medication, Mounjaro may have potential side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and constipation. It’s important to discuss these risks with your prescriber to make sure that Mounjaro is safe for you, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

Commitment to Lifestyle Changes

Mounjaro is not a magic solution and should be used alongside a healthy diet and regular physical activity. If you are ready to commit to lifestyle changes and incorporate Mounjaro into your weight loss plan, it may be an effective option for you.

Mounjaro Alternatives

While Mounjaro is an effective option for weight management, several other alternatives are available for those seeking different treatments.

Weight Loss Injections

• Wegovy (semaglutide): This GLP-1 receptor agonist is designed specifically for weight management and has been shown to help lose significant amounts of weight when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
• Saxenda (liraglutide): Another GLP-1 receptor medication, Saxenda, is also approved for weight loss. It helps reduce appetite and increase feelings of fullness, making it easier to stick to your weight loss goals.

Other Prescription Weight Loss Medications

• Orlistat (Alli): This medication is available unbranded or under the brand name Alli. This works by obstructing the absorption of dietary fats in the intestines, leading to reduced calorie intake. 
• Xenical: Similar to Orlistat, Xenical also blocks fat absorption. It is typically prescribed for those with a higher BMI and can be used in addition to a low-calorie diet.

Ready to try Mounjaro? 

If you’re considering Mounjaro as part of your weight loss journey, Click2Pharmacy has a convenient way to help you get started. Our platform lets you access Mounjaro prescriptions from the comfort of your home, making it easier to incorporate this medication into your weight management plan.

Start by filling out a consultation form, so our prescribers can assess your eligibility for Mounjaro based on your medical history and weight loss goals. If Mounjaro is suitable for you, our team will issue your prescription. Once prescribed, Mounjaro will be delivered directly to your door, making sure you have easy access to your medication without the need for in-person pharmacy visits.

Ready to explore Mounjaro for weight loss? Start your online assessment at our online weight loss clinic today and take the first step towards achieving your health goals!