Is Mounjaro the Best Weight Loss Treatment?
Mounjaro is approved for use in the UK as a weight-loss treatment when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. It is intended for individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 35 kg/m² or higher. In the United States, it is licensed under the brand name Zepbound. The active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound is tirzepatide. Out of all the current weight loss treatments available, Mounjaro/Zepbound is currently the most effective option, with the highest average weight loss outcomes. However, even though Mounjaro may be the most effective prescription weight-loss drug currently available, “best” depends on your health profile, tolerance, and preferences. A healthcare provider can help determine the “best” option for you.
| Medication | Average Weight Loss | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro | Up to 25% | GLP-1 + GIP receptor agonist |
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | 15–20% | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Saxenda | ~8% | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Orlistat | 5–10% | Fat absorption blocker |
In this discussion, we’ll examine how effective it is, how it compares to other treatments, and consider its potential benefits and drawbacks.
Learn more about common treatments
Key Takeaways
- Mounjaro, developed by Eli Lilly, is a dual-acting medication for type 2 diabetes that has shown promising results for weight loss and helps control blood sugar levels, though it is not officially approved for this use.
- Clinical trials indicate Mounjaro users experience greater weight loss than those on Wegovy, along with additional health benefits, but accessibility and high costs pose challenges for potential users.
- Common side effects of Mounjaro include nausea and diarrhea, and its safety profile requires careful consideration and consultation with healthcare providers before use.
Introducing Mounjaro by Eli Lilly
A photo of a patient injecting Mounjaro, a medication by Eli Lilly, potentially used for weight loss.
Mounjaro, developed by Eli Lilly, is a prescription medication primarily created to manage type 2 diabetes. It has also been used off-label as a weight loss treatment due to its impressive clinical trial results. At the heart of Mounjaro’s effectiveness is its classification as a dual-acting GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, which is glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide. This dual-action mechanism sets it apart from other medications and its drug class, like Ozempic and Wegovy, which only activate one receptor.
The active ingredient in Mounjaro is Tirzepatide, which mimics the activity of hormones GIP and GLP-1 to reduce appetite and improve blood sugar control. This unique approach may lead to greater weight loss compared to other medications, a claim that merits further scrutiny. Mounjaro is designed to act on the body’s hunger control mechanisms, helping users manage their appetite more effectively. Common side effects related to the digestive system include nausea and diarrhea. Although not officially approved for weight loss, its dual benefits in diabetes management and weight reduction have made it a popular off-label choice.
Eli Lilly claims that Mounjaro can result in significant weight loss when paired with lifestyle interventions like healthier eating and increased physical activity, aiding in losing weight and addressing weight-related comorbidities and weight-related conditions. Doctors prescribe Mounjaro off-label for weight loss despite it not being officially approved for that purpose. This dual-agonist approach aims to provide an edge over other treatments by not only controlling blood sugar but also tackling appetite regulation more comprehensively, helping individuals to lose weight effectively and adopt a healthy lifestyle while managing their food intake.
But can these bold claims hold up under scrutiny? Next, we’ll examine Mounjaro’s actual performance, its target audience, and how it drugs compare to other weight loss medications. These insights will help determine whether Mounjaro lives up to its promises or is just another addition to the crowded weight loss market.
How Mounjaro Works
Mounjaro is a prescription medication that works by mimicking the action of two natural hormones in the body: glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). These hormones play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite, which are key factors in weight management. By activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, Mounjaro helps to control blood sugar and reduce appetite, leading to effective weight loss.
Administered via a weekly injection, Mounjaro is designed to be used in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. This comprehensive approach supports chronic weight management by addressing both dietary habits and physical activity levels. The dual-action mechanism of Mounjaro not only aids in losing weight but also helps in maintaining weight loss over time, making it a valuable tool for those struggling with weight management.
Benefits of Mounjaro for Weight Loss
Mounjaro has demonstrated significant benefits for individuals looking to lose weight and maintain their weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that participants using Mounjaro experienced a statistically significant reduction in body weight compared to those who received a placebo. This weight loss is not only substantial but also sustainable, with many users maintaining their reduced body weight over extended periods.
In addition to weight loss, Mounjaro offers several other health benefits. It has been shown to improve blood sugar control, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Moreover, Mounjaro can reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, and decrease the progression of kidney disease. These comprehensive health benefits make Mounjaro a powerful option for those seeking to improve their overall health while managing their weight.
By addressing multiple aspects of health, Mounjaro provides a holistic approach to weight management, making it a compelling choice for individuals looking to achieve and maintain a healthier body weight.
Target Audience for Mounjaro
Mounjaro is primarily aimed at overweight adults suffering from type 2 diabetes who are also looking for effective weight loss solutions. Given that approximately 70% of adults in the U.S. are classified as overweight or obese, there’s a significant market for such treatments. However, to qualify for a Mounjaro prescription, a doctor will need to assess the individual’s body mass index, which must be calculated from their weight, height, and excess weight. The exact dosage of Mounjaro can vary based on individual responses and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
This dual-target audience—diabetics and those seeking weight loss—presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism promises substantial benefits, accessibility remains a concern. Lower-income individuals may face difficulties accessing Mounjaro due to the necessity of a doctor’s prescription and the potential cost barriers. Doctors may prescribe Mounjaro off-label for weight loss, emphasizing the need for a thorough health evaluation.
Despite these challenges, Mounjaro offers hope for those managing both weight and diabetes. Next, we’ll explore whether Mounjaro’s performance justifies its claims and how it measures up against other medications like Wegovy.
Is Mounjaro better than Wegovy
When it comes to weight loss, Mounjaro has shown promising results in direct comparisons with Wegovy. Clinical trials showed that Mounjaro users experienced a greater weight loss of 20% after 72 weeks, compared to 14% for those on Wegovy. Additionally, 32% of participants using Mounjaro lost a quarter of their body weight, while only 16% of Wegovy users achieved the same milestone. However, it is important to consider the potential for weight regain after discontinuing the medication.
NowPatient Graphic showing the comparison between Wegovy and Mounjaro
Mounjaro’s dual-action mechanism, affecting two appetite pathways in the brain, is a significant differentiator from Wegovy, which targets just one. This dual pathway activation may explain the larger average waist reduction seen in Mounjaro users—18 cm compared to 13 cm for Wegovy users. Additionally, Mounjaro users reported improved blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels, highlighting its comprehensive health benefits.
A NowPatient features comparison between Mounjaro and Wegovy
Sales trends also indicate a growing preference for Mounjaro, with it surpassing Wegovy in private sales in the UK. These statistics paint a compelling picture of Mounjaro’s effectiveness, but do these numbers translate into real-life benefits? Next, we’ll explore user experiences and the practical aspects of using Mounjaro.
Getting Started with Mounjaro
Administering Mounjaro is straightforward, thanks to its single-use KwikPen format that is designed for easy self-administration. Typically, users start with an initial dosage of 2.5 mg injected once weekly, which can be gradually increased by a physician to a maximum dosage of 15 mg per week, up to the highest approved dosage and the maximum recommended dose. This gradual increase helps tailor the treatment to individual needs and tolerances.
The injection pen is designed to enhance user convenience, featuring a pre-filled cartridge and a durable build. For optimal use, the pen should be refrigerated until 30 minutes before injection, and users can inject Mounjaro under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Instructions on administering Mounjaro are typically provided by healthcare providers, ensuring users are well-informed about the process. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor or local emergency number immediately.
This setup process underscores Mounjaro’s user-friendly design and the need for proper administration to achieve the best results. Next, let’s explore the design and aesthetics of the Mounjaro injection pen in more detail.
Design and Aesthetics of Mounjaro
The design of the Mounjaro injection pen emphasizes user-friendliness and durability. Its sleek, modern aesthetic appeals to users, making the medication process less daunting and more manageable. The materials chosen for the pen ensure it withstands regular use, providing reliability and peace of mind for users.
Beyond its visual appeal, the functional design of the pen enhances the overall user experience. The combination of durability and aesthetic appeal ensures users can administer their medication confidently and comfortably. This thoughtful design plays a crucial role in the medication’s effectiveness, as ease of use can significantly impact adherence to the treatment regimen.
Functionality and Ease of Use
Mounjaro’s injection KwikPen is designed to be user-friendly, featuring a simple mechanism for attaching needles and administering doses. This ease of use allows for easy self-administration, making it accessible for patients to manage their medication at home. Consistency is key; users are advised to administer Mounjaro at the same time each week to maintain stable medication levels.
However, some users may experience challenges handling the injection pen due to its size and design. To mitigate discomfort and potential injection site reactions, it is recommended to rotate the injection site. Proper storage is also crucial; while Mounjaro should be refrigerated, it can be kept at room temperature briefly before use.
These considerations highlight the need to understand the practical aspects of using Mounjaro. Next, we’ll delve into real-life performance to see how these features translate into user experiences and outcomes.
Real-Life Performance of Mounjaro
Real-life experiences with Mounjaro paint a promising picture of its effectiveness in weight loss. Many patients have reported losing significant weight, with some achieving reductions of over 30 pounds. Clinical studies support these testimonials, showing that patients can lose up to 22% of their total body weight over a 72-week period, contributing to an average weight loss of significant proportions and a statistically significant reduction in body weight.
Users have highlighted both weight loss benefits and improved lifestyle choices and overall health. One individual reported a transformation in health habits, attributing their success to appetite normalization while on Mounjaro. Studies also indicate that patients who continue using Mounjaro can maintain their chronic weight management and weight loss for up to 88 weeks.
Beyond weight loss, Mounjaro helps manage diabetes symptoms by reducing appetite and controlling blood sugar levels. These benefits underscore the potential health improvements users can expect, making Mounjaro a comprehensive solution for weight management and diabetes control.
Despite these positive outcomes, challenges or issues during usage should also be considered. While Mounjaro aids in weight loss, some users may experience weight gain if they discontinue the medication. Some patients may experience side effects, which will be discussed in detail next. Nonetheless, Mounjaro’s real-life performance suggests it could be a valuable tool for those struggling with weight and diabetes.
Comparing Mounjaro to Other Treatments
Mounjaro stands out among weight loss medications due to its dual-action mechanism, potentially offering a significant amount more weight effective weight loss than treatments like Ozempic and Wegovy. While Wegovy, a higher-dose semaglutide, results in 15-20% weight loss, Mounjaro averages up to 20% weight loss. Weight loss achieved with Mounjaro can reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
In the United States, Zepbound, containing the same active ingredient Tirzepatide and also manufactured by Eli Lilly, has received FDA approval specifically for weight loss.
The dual benefits of Mounjaro in managing diabetes and weight loss might give it an edge over other medications.
Insurance coverage and food and drug administration approval status significantly impact the accessibility and cost of these treatments. Mounjaro’s prescribed off label use for weight loss may pose challenges in obtaining insurance coverage compared to FDA-approved medications. Despite these hurdles, Mounjaro’s effectiveness and user preference trends suggest it could be a superior choice for many.
Side Effects and Safety Concerns
Like all medications, Mounjaro comes with potential side effects and safety concerns. Commonly reported adverse effects include nausea, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. More severe side effects, such as inflammation of the pancreas and kidney failure, have also been noted, with various effects reported.
Patients should be aware of the boxed warning about a potential increased risk of thyroid cancer, based on animal studies. There is also a potential risk of thyroid C cell tumors, emphasizing the importance of considering personal or family history of thyroid cancer. Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2 are advised against using Mounjaro.
Staying hydrated helps mitigate the risk of kidney disease problems associated with Mounjaro. Users should be vigilant for serious allergic reactions and consult their doctor immediately if they experience severe side effects. These considerations highlight the need for medical guidance when using Mounjaro for weight loss.
Is Mounjaro Worth the Investment?
The cost of Mounjaro is significant, with monthly expenses ranging from $1,000 to $1,200, depending on the pharmacy. This high cost, combined with potential insurance coverage issues for off-label use, can be a barrier for many. Eli Lilly offers patient assistance programs to help eligible individuals manage these costs.
In the UK, Mounjaro is available from NowPatient from as little as £119 per month (equivalent to $160) for cash paying customers, subject to a consultion.
Long-term adherence to Mounjaro is necessary to maintain weight loss, similar to other weight loss medications. This ongoing need can add to the overall expense, so it’s crucial for patients to discuss costs and insurance coverage with their healthcare providers. While the investment is substantial, the potential health benefits and weight loss results may justify the cost for some.
Ultimately, the decision to invest in Mounjaro should be made in consultation with healthcare providers, considering personal health goals, financial considerations, and other health factors, as well as the medication’s effectiveness.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In summary, Mounjaro presents a promising option for weight loss and diabetes management due to its dual-action mechanism and significant weight loss results. However, its high cost and potential side effects should be carefully considered.
For those contemplating Mounjaro, consulting with healthcare providers to evaluate the most suitable weight loss strategy, including medications and lifestyle changes, is essential. While eating mounjaro offers substantial benefits, other effective options are available, making an informed decision crucial.
Summary
In conclusion, Mounjaro by Eli Lilly stands out in the crowded field of weight loss treatments due to its dual-acting mechanism and significant weight loss results. Despite its high cost and potential side effects, it offers a comprehensive solution for those struggling with weight and diabetes.
As with any treatment, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons, consult healthcare providers, and consider lifestyle changes alongside medication. Making an informed decision will ensure the best outcomes for your weight loss journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mounjaro only for people with type 2 diabetes?
Mounjaro is approved by the FDA to help control blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes when used alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise. Mounjaro is approved by the MHRA in the UK for both blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes and for weight management, when used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise.
How much weight can I expect to lose with Mounjaro?
Studies show that Mounjaro can lead to an average weight loss of around 25% over the course of a year. For instance, someone weighing 100 kg could lose approximately 25 kg after 72 weeks of treatment.
What are the common side effects of Mounjaro?
- being sick (vomiting)
- feeling sick (nausea)
- constipation
- diarrhea
- stomach discomfort
- heartburn
- burping
- excess wind
Will my insurance cover Mounjaro or Zepbound for weight loss?
If you reside in the United States, you should check with your pharmacy benefit by contacting your plan administrator to check if Mounjaro or Zepbound are covered. If it is, you may require a prior-authorisation to confirm coverage.
Is Mounjaro only for people with type 2 diabetes?
In the United States, Mounjaro is intended for use in individuals with type 2 diabetes, but it is also used off-label for weight loss, given its appetite-suppressing and blood sugar-controlling effects. In the United Kingdom, Mounjaro is licensed for weight loss.
How is Mounjaro administered?
Mounjaro is administered via a single-use injection pen that delivers the medication subcutaneously, typically starting with a dosage of 2.5 mg once weekly, which can be adjusted by a physician.
Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
Related Articles
Can I Trust NowPatient
Our product and services are certified to international healthcare, medical device and data security standards
Medicines Experts
Meet our medical team
We are a broad skilled and passionate group of clinicians with experience of operating in health systems in the United Kingdom & United States. Providing excellent care and advice is at the heart of everything we do. You can read more about our medical team by visiting the medical team page or learn more about how we curate content by visiting our editorial process
WHY WE BUILT NOWPATIENT
We are committed to helping everyone, everywhere live healthier lives
The NowPatient virtual care platform provides you with access to trusted health information, affordable treatments, management of chronic health conditions and continuous monitoring for health risks. NowPatient can be accessed by downloading the App or using your web browser.
Download our app today
Your Questions Answered
For your peace of mind, we can answer your questions quickly
What does NowPatient do?
NowPatient is a digital health-technology platform functioning as both an online pharmacy and telehealth service. Packaged as a Class I software medical device, it’s accessible via web browser or mobile app (iOS and Android), and offers users worldwide on-demand access to virtual consultations, prescription services, and AI-powered health tools.
What It Does
-
- NHS Online Pharmacy: Order NHS-approved prescriptions (UK)
- Drug Savings: Access major US drug-savings programs (coupons, savings cards, manufacturer assistance, Canadian drug savings).
- Virtual Consultations: Get treated for a wide range of medical conditions by expert clinicians using a secure telehealth link.
- Medication Management: Set up refill & dose reminders, view private treatment plans, and track chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension.
- Health-Monitoring Tools: Use AI-driven assessments for genetic risk tests, home test kits and blood-pressure monitoring.
- Wellness Insights: Access real-time pollen counts, air-quality data, BMI and type 2 diabetes risk scores, plus comprehensive health-condition information.
Get started today and benefit from Medication Reminders, Get Treated Privately, NHS Online Pharmacy, GP Appointment Booking, Rx Savings Card, Drug Coupons, US Drug Savings Programs, Health Conditions Information, Genetic Testing, Home Test Kits, BMI Risks, Type 2 Diabetes Risks, Pollen Meter, Air Quality Monitor, and lots more!
Our service is operated by experienced medical professionals in the United States and the United Kingdom.
You can view the online services we provide by clicking the link below:
Where is NowPatient located?
NowPatient has offices in the United Kingdom and United States.
In the UK, we are located at:
NowPatient
28 Chipstead Valley Road
Coulsdon
Surrey
CR52RA
In the US, we are located at:
NowPatient
8911 North Capital of Texas Highway
Suite 4200 #1263
78759
Austin, TX
How can I contact NowPatient?
To contact NowPatient, please use the contact form available on the Contact Us page.
Alternatively, if you need to speak to us, you can reach us on the following numbers:
UK telephone number – 020 388 51 500
US telephone number – 1-866-967-1977
Who owns NowPatient?
NowPatient is owned and operated by Infohealth Ltd, a licensed online pharmacy with services spanning the UK, US and Rest of the World. Infohealth Ltd is registered in England and Wales under company number 04004930 and our registered office is at Lynwood House, 373 – 375 Station Road, Harrow, England, HA1 2AW.
Our website is www.nowpatient.com. Our App is called “NowPatient” and can be downloaded from the App Store (for Apple devices) or Google Play (for Android devices).
Can you tell me more about your NHS online pharmacy?
NowPatient’s Pharmaceutical services in the UK are provided by Infohealth Limited trading as ‘Infohealth Pharmacy’.
Our dispensing pharmacy is regulated and authorized for internet sales by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), registration number 1036487. You can view our license credentials on the General Pharmaceutical Council website. Our superintendent pharmacist who is responsible for the safe and effective oversight of medicines supplies is Mr Amish Patel (Registration Number 2042705).
Medicines are not ordinary items of commerce. All medicines or healthcare product sales are made under the supervision of a registered pharmacist who is licensed by the GPhC. At all times, we endeavour to provide a professional and transparent service whose primary goal is to ensure that the best interests of the patient are served.
How do I make a complaint?
From time to time, we accept that our service levels may not be up to your expectations. NowPatient welcomes concerns, compliments and complaints as valuable feedback that will help us learn from your experiences and make improvements. Feedback can be provided via our clear and transparent Complaints Procedures.
Can you tell me more about NowPatient’s prescribing services for treatments offered?
Our prescribing services are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). We provide the following regulated activity:
• treatment of disease, disorder, or injury
• transport services, triage, and medical advice are provided remotely
• caring for adults over 65 years old
• caring for adults under 65 years old
NowPatient prescribing services are run by Infohealth Limited. The Clinical Safety Officer and nominated individual is Mr Navin Khosla.
Can you tell me more about NowPatient’s US services?
Our head of US services is Dr. Jamie Winn.
You can lower the cost of your prescription medications using our various savings programs which include drug coupons, savings card and manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs.
Is NowPatient legit and can I trust information from NowPatient?
Yes. NowPatient provides trustworthy and accessible clinical, health education and prescription services. We are also trusted by the NHS to deliver clinical and NHS repeat prescription dispensing across the whole of England. In the United States, we work with over 65,000 pharmacies to deliver considerable costs savings for our users.
NowPatient is operated by experienced licensed medical professionals in the United Kingdom and United States. Our Medical Team can be found here.
Our service is trusted by thousands of patients worldwide. You can read their reviews on our Trustpilot:
Does NowPatient have insurance in place for the services it provides?
Yes. NowPatient is fully insured to provide pharmacy & prescribing services. Insurance not only provides peace of mind but also provides an effective safety net for both you and our clinicians.
Why is it important to choose an online pharmacy and telehealth service that is insured?
Insurance is more than just a financial safeguard, it is a signal of legitimacy and accountability.
We insure our services, so that it:
- Shows you that we are compliant with all laws and industry standards in the markets that we operate.
- Shows you that we are committed to standards of professionalism.
- Reinforces your confidence that you are dealing with a reputable provider.
Who insures your services and which services are insured?
We are insured by the National Pharmacy Association in the UK.
The scope of the services covered include:
- dispensing of prescriptions
- telehealth prescribing services.
In addition, all of the clinicians that operate on our platform have their personal indemnity insurance & scope of clinical practice validated and checked before they are able to provide services.
What are NowPatient’s opening hours?
Our office hours are:
UK – Monday-Friday 9am-6pm GMT
US – Monday-Friday 8am-5pm EST
Please note that we are closed at weekends.
In the event of a medical life-threatening emergency please call:
UK – 999
US – 911
In the event of a medical emergency which is not life-threatening please call:
UK – 111