Mounjaro: What Is It and Who Can Use It?

Mounjaro is a self-injectable pen designed for weekly use to aid in weight loss. Formulated with tirzepatide, it functions by regulating blood sugar and energy balance, thereby curbing appetite and mitigating cravings.  

Here's a detailed and enlightening overview of Mounjaro's effectiveness for weight loss. Here are a few important points to remember: 

About Mounjaro: 

• It is a weekly self-injectable pen containing tirzepatide. 

• It is used for weight management in adults with a BMI over 30 or 27 with weight-related health issues. 

• It works by regulating blood sugar and energy balance, reducing appetite and cravings. 

• It is available in the UK under the name Mounjaro. 

How it works: 

• It mimics the effects of GLP-1 and GIP hormones to regulate blood sugar, reduce appetite, and slow down stomach emptying. 

• It is injected once a week subcutaneously in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. 

• The dosage gradually increases to reach a maximum of 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, or 15mg. 
  

Tirzepatide, the active component of Mounjaro, acts on two distinct hormonal receptors: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). GLP-1, a familiar name in other weight loss injections, aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels, signalling the brain to reduce hunger sensations and curb cravings. Moreover, it slows stomach emptying, prolonging the feeling of fullness. GIP, on the other hand, governs energy balance in brain and fat cells, amplifying the appetite-suppressing effects of GLP-1 and enhancing sugar regulation. By emulating the actions of these natural hormones, Mounjaro demonstrates greater potential for weight loss compared to medications that solely target GLP-1. 

It's crucial to adhere to a precise dosage escalation regimen as recommended by your healthcare provider. 

To optimise your chances of long-term success and allow your body to acclimate to the medication, it's advisable to follow the gradual dosage increase schedule as directed. 

Typically, the journey begins with a 2.5mg dose of Mounjaro, which is then gradually raised every four weeks (or as instructed and if appropriate for your situation) until you reach your maximum maintenance dosage of 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, or 15mg. 

Potential weight loss: 

• Clinical trials showed at least 20% weight loss after 18 months when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. 

Side effects: 

• Common: nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, fatigue, light-headedness, flatulence, gallstones, reflux, injection site reactions, hair loss, hypoglycaemia (in type 2 diabetes). 

• Rare but serious: pancreatitis, anaphylaxis. 

Important information: 

• Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with certain medical conditions. 

• Requires disclosing full medical history and current medications. 

• New drug, closely monitored for side effects. 

Tips for managing side effects: 

• Maintain consistent injection schedule. 

• Stay hydrated and eat smaller meals more frequently. 

• Increase fibre intake and engage in regular activity for constipation. 

• Use simple pain relievers and relaxation techniques for headaches.