Scott Weaver
Updated at: February 11, 2025 · 8 min read
A Beginner’s Guide to Mounjaro for Weight Loss
Mounjaro is a breakthrough medication designed to help with weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. If you're considering Mounjaro for weight loss, this guide will explain how it works, who it's for, how to use it, and how you can get it in the UK.
Key Takeaways
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a weekly self-injectable medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes and support weight loss. It works by mimicking hormones that reduce hunger, regulate blood sugar, and make you feel full, helping you eat less and manage weight effectively.
Who Can Use Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30 or above (obesity) or a BMI of 27+ with weight-related health conditions like high blood pressure. It’s not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions, such as thyroid cancers.
How to Access Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a prescription-only medication available online through providers like UK Meds, where you can complete an online consultation to assess your eligibility. It’s not available over-the-counter, and it must be taken under medical supervision.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a self-injectable prescription medication that is taken once a week. It is primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes but has also been shown to help with weight loss. It works by mimicking natural hormones in the body that regulate appetite, making you feel fuller for longer and reducing the urge to overeat.
According to Eli Lilly and Company, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, the best results occur when it is combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
Key Benefits of Mounjaro
Helps regulate blood sugar levels
Reduces hunger and cravings
Increases the feeling of fullness
Supports long-term weight management
Is Mounjaro Approved by the MHRA?
Yes, Mounjaro is approved by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, it is not yet licensed in the UK specifically for weight loss, though studies and clinical trials have shown its effectiveness in supporting significant weight reduction. Always consult a healthcare professional to understand how this may apply to your situation.
Who is Mounjaro Suitable For? Understanding the Eligibility Criteria in the UK
Mounjaro is typically prescribed for adults with type 2 diabetes who need additional support with blood sugar control. It may also be considered for people with a high body mass index (BMI) who struggle with obesity, especially when other weight loss methods have not worked.
Eligibility Criteria
In the UK, Mounjaro’s suitability is assessed during a consultation with a healthcare professional. Factors such as BMI, existing medical conditions and treatment history are considered before a prescription is issued.
Is Mounjaro right for you?
If you’re looking for a treatment that can help with both weight loss and type 2 diabetes management, Mounjaro could be a promising option. Speak to a healthcare provider to learn more about whether it’s suitable for your health needs and goals.
Can adults use Mounjaro?
Yes, Eli Lilly and Company state that Mounjaro is formulated for use by adults. It is designed to be used by adults who meet the required criteria of a BMI of 30 or over or a BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition.
Can children use Mounjaro?
No, this medication should not be given to anyone under the age of 18 years old. This information is provided in the customer information leaflet provided with the medication.
Can pregnant women use Mounjaro?
No, it's not recommended for pregnant women to use Mounjaro. Due to the lack of data on its safety during pregnancy and the potential risks indicated by animal studies, healthcare providers typically advise against its use in pregnant individuals. If you're pregnant or planning to conceive, it's crucial to discuss alternative options with your doctor to manage any health conditions effectively while prioritising the safety of both you and your baby.
How Does Mounjaro Work?
The active ingredient in Mounjaro is Tirzepatide, which targets two hormone receptors in the body:
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1): Helps control blood sugar and slows digestion.
GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide): Enhances insulin production and supports appetite regulation.
By acting on both receptors (a dual-action effect), Mounjaro is highly effective in managing weight and improving metabolic health.
Dual Benefits of Mounjaro
For Weight Loss: Mounjaro reduces appetite, helps control cravings and makes you feel full sooner, aiding in consistent weight management.
For Diabetes Management: Mounjaro improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar levels, reducing the need for additional diabetes medications in some cases.
This dual action makes Mounjaro a versatile option for people managing both type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Who Can Use Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is prescribed for adults who meet the following criteria:
BMI of 30 or higher (Obesity)
BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition (e.g., high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol)
Who Should Not Use Mounjaro?
Individuals under 18 years old
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
People with a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis
Those with severe digestive disorders
Always consult a doctor before starting Mounjaro to ensure it is the right choice for you.
Mounjaro Dosages & Administration
Mounjaro comes in different strengths and is injected under the skin once a week. The typical dosage progression is:
Week | Dosage |
| 1-4 | 2.5mg |
| 5+ | 5mg |
| Further adjustments | 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, or 15mg as prescribed |
What to do if you miss a dose of Mounjaro?
The official advice provided by Eli Lilly and Company regarding missed Mounjaro dosage is to take the missed dose as soon as you remember if it is within 4 days of your missed dose. If more than 4 days have elapsed since the missed dose then you skip this dose and resume your regular dosing schedule the next day you had planned your next dose. You should avoid taking two doses of Mounjaro within a span of 3 days to prevent potential side effects and complications.
How to Use Mounjaro
Choose an Injection Site – Stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
Prepare the Injection – Ensure the pen is undamaged and set to the correct dose.
Inject the Medication – Press the pen firmly against the skin and hold for 5 seconds.
Dispose of the Needle Safely – Use a sharps disposal container.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within 4 days. If more than 4 days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue as scheduled.
How Effective is Mounjaro for Weight Loss?
Clinical studies have shown that Mounjaro can help people lose up to 15-20% of their body weight over 52 weeks, making it one of the most effective weight loss injections available.
A recent study reported:
76% of users lost at least 5% of their body weight
More than twice as likely to lose 10% of body weight compared to other weight loss medications
3x more likely to lose 15% of body weight than those taking alternative GLP-1 medications
Mounjaro vs Other Weight Loss Medications
Medication | How It Works | Dosing | Weight Loss |
| Mounjaro | Targets GLP-1 & GIP to reduce appetite & improve insulin response | Once weekly | 15-20% weight loss |
| Wegovy | Targets GLP-1 to suppress appetite | Once weekly | 10-15% weight loss |
| Saxenda | Targets GLP-1, but requires daily injections | Daily | 5-10% weight loss |
Mounjaro is more effective than other weight loss injections, partly due to its dual-action mechanism.
Does Mounjaro Have Side Effects?
Like any medication, Mounjaro may cause some side effects. Common side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Reduced appetite
Mild stomach pain
More serious but rare side effects include:
Severe stomach pain
Gallbladder issues
Thyroid tumours (in rare cases)
If you experience severe side effects, stop using Mounjaro and seek medical advice immediately.
How to Get Mounjaro in the UK?
Mounjaro is only available with a prescription in the UK. You cannot buy it over the counter.
How to Order Mounjaro Online at UK Meds
Complete an Online Consultation – A healthcare professional will assess your suitability.
Receive a Private Prescription – If approved, a prescription is issued at no extra cost.
Order & Delivery – Your medication is shipped discreetly to your door.
You can order Mounjaro from UK Meds, ensuring a safe and legitimate purchase.
Final Thoughts
Mounjaro is one of the most effective weight loss injections available, offering substantial results for those struggling with obesity. With its dual-action hormone regulation, it provides better appetite control, improved blood sugar levels, and significant weight reduction compared to other treatments.
If you're looking for a long-term weight loss solution, Mounjaro could be a game-changer. Speak to a healthcare provider to see if it’s the right option for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mounjaro better than Wegovy?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is generally more effective than semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, as it targets two hormone receptors instead of one, leading to greater weight loss.
How quickly will I see results?
Most people start noticing weight loss within 4-8 weeks, with significant results seen in 3-6 months.
Can I take Mounjaro long-term?
Yes, Mounjaro can be used as an ongoing treatment for weight management and type 2 diabetes, as long as it is medically supervised.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult a medical professional before starting any new medication.
Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC reference no: 7151419
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