Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

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Medication Features

Mounjaro is a revolutionary weekly self-injectable pen for weight loss. It contains tirzepatide which helps to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite to aid an individual's weight loss journey. In clinical trials, participants have noticed around 20% of body weight reduction over an 18-month period. A Mounjaro injection is a safe and effective solution for adults seeking to manage their weight, treat type 2 diabetes, and improve their overall health. Mounjaro is a cold chain medication, meaning it needs to be stored in a fridge between 2°C to 8°C. It can be stored out of a fridge for up to 21 days as long as it is being stored below room temperature (30ºC).

We also offer the alternative weight loss treatments Wegovy (Semaglutide) and Saxenda (Liraglutide) and the alternative diabetes treatment Ozempic (Semaglutide).

If your order is placed after the cut-off time on Thursday it will be processed and shipped out on Monday. This is because the item requires refrigeration and we cannot guarantee delivery over the weekends. Thank you for your understanding.

As Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is required to be kept chilled, your order will be sent with ice packs and a temperature-controlled pouch. The delivery must be accepted on the first delivery attempt. UK Meds are not liable for any deliveries missed or address errors.

  • Weekly self-injectable pen for weight loss
  • Contains Tirzepatide
  • Safe and effective weight loss medication for adults
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A Doctor's Overview

GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is a medication used for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and can also be used as a weight loss treatment. It works by increasing the effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors'.

If you think Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Buy Mounjaro UK

Buying Mounjaro Online in the UK

Can I buy Mounjaro online?

Yes, you can buy Mounjaro (tirzepatide) online in the United Kingdom from UK Meds by completing our quick online consultation with an independent pharmacist prescriber. They will take into account factors such as your BMI, your medical history and current medication that you're taking. Your free private prescription will be issued if approved and your weight loss treatment will be sent for dispensing.

Unboxing Video: What to expect from your Mounjaro order with UK Meds:

Check out the video below to get an idea of what to expect when your order of Mounjaro arrives when you purchase with UK Meds:

@uk.medsUnboxing Mounjaro with @uk.meds! What’s inside our secure packaging: An insulated pouch with a frozen ice pack to keep everything at the perfect temperature 4x needles for safe and easy dosing 2.5mg pen ready to support your weight loss journey. We take every step to ensure your treatment arrives fresh, safe, and discreetly! Have questions about starting Mounjaro? Drop them in the comments!#unboxings #Mounjaro #UKMeds #weightlossjourneyuk #healthcare #onlinechemist #packaging #temperaturecontrolled ♬ Upbeat Hip-Hop Background - Vladislav Kurnikov

Where can I buy Mounjaro in the UK?

Buy Tirzepatide UK

If you are looking to buy Mounjaro (tirzepatide) in the United Kingdom, look no further than UK Meds. Mounjaro can be purchased online from UK Meds after you have successfully completed our free online consultation and it has been reviewed by an independent pharmacist prescriber, who will provide you with a free private prescription.

Can I get a private prescription for Mounjaro in the UK?

Mounjaro Private Prescription

Yes, you can get a private prescription online in the United Kingdom at UK Meds for Mounjaro. Our prescription service process is simple, complete our quick online consultation which will then be reviewed by a doctor. If approved, you will be given a free private Mounjaro prescription online. Once you have your Mounjaro prescription you can continue to purchase the Mounjaro pen at UK Meds. Please note that you should always consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before you start any new treatment to ensure that it is suitable for your needs and for any weight loss advice or a sustainable weight loss treatment plan.

Mounjaro London

Yes. You can buy Mounjaro online in London at UK Meds. If you're a Londoner based in the English capital city and you require the weight loss medication, you can purchase it online with a valid prescription. If you require a prescription, simply complete our quick online consultation. Once it has been reviewed by our independent doctor prescriber you can buy Mounjaro online in London, from the comfort of your own home, provided that your prescription has been approved. You should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider prior to starting treatment with any medication to ensure that it is safe and suitable for your individual needs.

Google Web Story - Mounjaro London: A Guide To Buying Mounjaro In The UK's Capital City

UK Meds have put together a Google Web Story to help Londoners to understand various factors relating to buying branded Mounjaro and tirzepatide in the UK's capital city, London, which you can explore below and for an even more detailed analysis you can also take a look at our dedicated guide called 'Mounjaro London: A Guide To Buying Mounjaro In The UK's Capital City'.

Mounjaro Edinburgh

Yes. You can buy Mounjaro online in Edinburgh at UK Meds. If you're based in the Scottish capital city and you require the weight loss medication, you can purchase it online with a valid prescription. If you require a prescription, simply complete our quick online consultation. Once it has been reviewed by our independent doctor prescriber you can buy Mounjaro online in Edinburgh, from the comfort of your own home, provided that your prescription has been approved. You should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider prior to starting treatment with any medication to ensure that it is safe and suitable for your individual needs.

For a detailed analysis you can read our dedicated guide called 'Mounjaro Edinburgh: A Guide To Buying Mounjaro In Edinburgh'.

Mounjaro Manchester

Yes. You can buy Mounjaro online in Manchester at UK Meds. If you're a mancunian based in the English city and you require the weight loss medication, you can purchase it online with a valid prescription. If you require a prescription, simply complete our quick online consultation. Once it has been reviewed by our independent doctor prescriber you can buy Mounjaro online in Manchester, from the comfort of your own home, provided that your prescription has been approved. You should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider prior to starting treatment with any medication to ensure that it is safe and suitable for your individual needs.

For a detailed analysis you can read our dedicated guide called 'Mounjaro Manchester: A Guide To Buying Mounjaro In Manchester'.

Mounjaro Birmingham

Yes. You can buy Mounjaro online in Birmingham at UK Meds. If you're a Brummie based in the English city and you require the weight loss medication, you can purchase it online with a valid prescription. If you require a prescription, simply complete our quick online consultation. Once it has been reviewed by our independent doctor prescriber you can buy Mounjaro online in Birmingham, from the comfort of your own home, provided that your prescription has been approved. You should always consult your doctor or healthcare provider prior to starting treatment with any medication to ensure that it is safe and suitable for your individual needs.

For a detailed analysis you can read our dedicated guide called 'Mounjaro Birmingham: A Guide To Buying Mounjaro In Birmingham'.

Mounjaro Summary

Condition it treats:Weight loss; Type-2 Diabetes
Type of drug:Dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist
Brand names:Mounjaro
Active ingredient:Tirzepatide
Available strengths:2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, 15mg
Common side effects:Diarrhoea, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation, stomach pain

Mounjaro - Key Information

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro (pronounced 'mown-JAHR-OH') is a weekly self-injectable pen designed for type-2 diabetes and weight loss. It contains tirzepatide, a key ingredient that regulates an individual's blood sugar level and energy balance levels, facilitates appetite suppression and prevent cravings (ScienceDirect, 2024). When used correctly, Mounjaro can help suitable patients in their weight loss journey to lose weight safely alongside a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise.

Beginner's Guide

Learn more about Mounjaro in our beginner's guide.

Mounjaro is recommended for individuals with a BMI (Body Mass Index) over 30 (classified as obese) or over 27 (classified as overweight) who also have weight-related health problems such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart problems (GOV.UK, 2024). It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Mounjaro is suitable for you and to ensure proper usage and monitoring.

Does Mounjaro require a prescription?

Yes, Mounjaro requires a valid prescription from a healthcare provider. It is a prescription medication used for weight loss and management.

How does Mounjaro work?

The active ingredient in Mounjaro is called tirzepatide. This weight loss injection medication acts on two hormonal receptors: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) (Nauck & D’Alessio, 2022). These hormones help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce hunger, and keep you feeling fuller for longer by slowing down stomach emptying.

GLP-1 helps regulate blood glucose levels, which signals the brain to reduce hunger and prevent cravings. It also slows stomach emptying, keeping you feeling fuller longer.

GIP helps balance energy in the brain and fat cells, boosting GLP-1's effects on appetite regulation and blood sugar control.

By mimicking both these hormones, Mounjaro has shown greater weight loss potential than medicines that only target GLP-1.

How effective is Mounjaro?

A clinical trial reported by Ell Lilly & Company (2023) found that tirzepatide, that active ingredient in Mounjaro weight loss injections, achieved up to 15.7% weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight and type 2 diabetes.

Further clinical trials have demonstrated that Mounjaro, when combined with healthy lifestyle changes, can lead to significant weight loss of at least 20% over 18 months (Singh, K.; 2024). This effectiveness is attributed to its active ingredient, tirzepatide, which regulates blood sugar levels and manages appetite, offering a promising solution for weight management when combined with a health lifestyle change.

The results of Jastreboff et al's SURMOUNT-1 trial in 2022 showed that Mounjaro is highly effective for weight loss in people who are overweight or obese, even if they don’t have diabetes. The study highlighted the significant weight reduction and safe use of this dual-agonist treatment, making it a promising option for those eligible.

If you find that Mounjaro isn't giving the results you were expecting, learn which potential factors could be limiting it's effectiveness.

How long does it take for Mounjaro to work?

Mounjaro should start working immediately, but it may take several weeks to noticeably regulate your blood sugar levels and impact your appetite and eating habits.

Patient Information Leaflet

For more information on this prescription medication patients should refer to the Mounjaro patient information leaflet.

What experiences have Mounjaro users had?

Each patient has a unique individual experience when taking Mounjaro weight loss injections as a treatment prescribed by their doctor for weight loss.

Mounjaro Reviews

Read first hand what other UK Meds customers think about Mounjaro and it's impact on their weight loss journeys on our customer reviews above. For further context there are also a large selection of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) reviews describing what people think about their experiences with the medication available at Drugs.com and Web MD.

It is important to note that people will have different experiences when they use Mounjaro weight loss injections. If someone states that their medication did not work as they had hoped, it does not mean that it will not work for you. If you believe that Mounjaro is the right weight loss medication for you then the best thing to do is to consult your doctor, GP or healthcare provider. They can assess your suitability for the weight loss treatment and if it is approved you can judge the medication based on your own experiences. However, Mounjaro user experiences should not be understated as they can provide you with important advice and information that you may not have known, and can inform you on whether or not to start using Mounjaro. If you are unsure about starting a medication you should always consult with your healthcare provider first.

Check out some independent Mounjaro user experiences below.

Mounjaro User Experience 1Mounjaro User Experience 2Mounjaro User Experience 3Mounjaro User Experience 4Mounjaro User Experience 5
@corrine_benandi A long 44 weeks, but hands down the best decision for me… and forever grateful for my endocronologist, team of doctors, and modern medication for saving my life #mounjaro #mounjarojourney #weightloss #pcos #insulinresistance #fyp ♬ September (Dreamy Version) - JU$t
@ellebelieves My Mounjaro journey! Im a type 2 diabetic and I have pcos. My journey is not like others who have lost the weight super fast. It took some time! #mounjaro #mounjarojourney #mounjaroweightloss #mounjaroupdate #weightloss #diabetes #pcos #pcosweightloss ♬ original sound - Elle Believes
@alohacress How much weight I lost, week by week on Mounjaro. What week are you on and how much have you lost? #weightloss #weightlosscheck #weightlossprogress #mounjaro #mounjaro #mounjaroweightloss #mounjaroprescription #glp1 #contentcreator #mom #momsoftiktok #motivation #contentcreator #roadto10k #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viral #foryoupage #foryou ♬ ♡ ᶫᵒᵛᵉᵧₒᵤ ♡ - SoBerBoi
@mounjarozepboundjourney Month 1 weighin. Moved up to 5mg dose. #mounjaro #mounjarojourney #mounjaroweightloss #glp1 #mounjarotok ♬ original sound - Mounjaro to Zepbound Journey
@mollyneena One year anniversary on #mounjaro #mounjarojourney #mounjaroweightloss #mounjaorsideeffects #mounjaroupdate #mounjaro7point5 ♬ original sound - Molly

Usage Advice

How do I use the Mounjaro pen (KwikPen) for weight loss?

Mounjaro is administered as a weekly self-injectable pen, adjusting the dose knob as instructed by your doctor. You inject it under the skin (subcutaneously) in areas such as your stomach, thigh, or upper arm. The dosage starts low and gradually increases until you reach the maintenance dose prescribed by your healthcare provider. It's essential to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and to rotate the Mounjaro weight loss injection sites regularly.

Read UK Meds simple step-by-step guide for how to take Mounjaro.

Mounjaro manufacturer, Ell Lilly & Company, has created a helpful video to explain instructions for taking the weight loss injection. You can watch it below:

Where should I inject Mounjaro into my body?

The best places to inject Mounjaro are areas with more fat, such as your tummy (ensuring to inject more than 5cm away from your belly button), the front of your thighs, or your upper arms. It's crucial to change injection sites regularly, even if you inject in the same area, to avoid discomfort or skin issues.

When should you use Mounjaro?

You can take Mounjaro at any time of day. Mounjaro weight loss injections are meant to be used once a week. Choose a day that fits easily into your schedule. If you need to change the day, make sure it has been at least 72 hours since your last Mounjaro injection.

Storage Advice

How should I store Mounjaro?

Mounjaro pens need to be stored in a fridge between 2°C to 8°C, keeping them in their original packaging to protect from direct light. It can be stored out of a fridge for up to 21 days, provided it is being stored below room temperature (30ºC).

Do not freeze Mounjaro pens. If stored towards the back of the fridge, ensure they are not frozen before use.

Mounjaro pens can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 21 days. After 21 days, dispose of any pens kept at room temperature.

Do Mounjaro pens expire?

Yes. Mounjaro pens have an expiry date on both the pen and the box. Do not use them after this date has passed. Dispose of them appropriately.

How to dispose of Mounjaro pens that have been used?

Dispose of Mounjaro pens in a sharps disposal container immediately after use. Since Mounjaro is a weight loss injection, ensure you dispose of the pens safely. Do not throw them in your regular household or recycling bin. Please note that a sharps bin is not provided with your order.

Dosage

What is the typical Mounjaro dosage for weight loss?

It is important that you only ever use the dosage of Mounjaro that you have been told to use by your healthcare provider. This will ensure that you are remaining safe whilst using the medication. Typically, your healthcare professionals will prescribe the lowest dosage of Mounjaro that provides the desired effect (Eisenstein, C.; 2024).

Dosage titration (gradual dose increases) helps your body adjust to the medicine and increase the chances of long-term success, follow the gradually increasing dosage schedule as instructed.

Typically, 2.5 mg is the starting dose of Mounjaro, which will increase every four weeks (or as advised and if suitable for you) until you reach your maximum maintenance dose of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg.

Mounjaro Dosage Guide

For a more detailed set of instructions for dosing the medication, you can read our dosing and titration guide for Mounjaro.

Mounjaro starting doses Mounjaro dose increases

Image Source: Mounjaro.lilly.com

Below is a table that outlines how much Mounjaro is typically used:

Mounjaro Dose Schedule
WeeksDoseNotes
1-42.5 mg once weeklyInitial dose for titration
5-85 mg once weeklyAssess tolerance before increase
9-127.5 mg once weeklyMonitor blood sugar levels
13-1610 mg once weeklyMonitor for efficacy and tolerability
17-2012.5 mg once weeklyFurther increase based on clinical response
21 onwards15 mg once weeklyMaintenance dose if well tolerated

What should you do if you miss a dose of Mounjaro?

Always consult your doctor if you have missed a dose of Mounjaro for appropriate advice. Typically, if you miss a dose of Mounjaro, you should take the missed dose as soon as possible within the following 4 days (96 hours) after the missed dose. If it has been more than 4 days since the missed dose window, skip the missed dose and take the next dose on the next regularly scheduled day. You should not take 2 doses of Mounjaro (tirzepatide injection) within 3 days of each other.

How long does 1 Mounjaro pen usually last?

Mounjaro can last for up to 21 days if it is unrefrigerated, as long as the external temperature does not go above 30°C; it is advised to keep your pen in the original packaging to protect it from light.

Each Mounjaro pen contains 4 doses and because it is a weekly dosage one pen should last for 4 weeks.

Side Effects

What are the potential side effects of Mounjaro?

As with all other medications, some users may experience Mounjaro side effects when they are using the weight loss treatment (WebMD, 2024). There are some side effects that are more common than others. The most common side effects of Mounjaro include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation
  • Fatigue
  • Lightheadedness
  • Flatulence
  • Gallstones

Serious Side Effects

In rare cases, there can be serious side effects, such as:

  • Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain, with or without persistent vomiting, may be a sign of pancreatitis. Seek medical help immediately.
  • Anaphylaxis: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, and difficulty swallowing may indicate a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Seek immediate medical help.
  • Severe stomach problems
  • Changes in vision
  • Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
  • Gallbladder problems
  • Kidney failure

If you are concerned about any side effects you are experiencing with Mounjaro then it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider for advice.

If you have a kidney-related condition and experience diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting after using Mounjaro, increase your fluid intake to reduce the risk of dehydration and contact your GP, pharmacist, or an out-of-hours doctor.

These are not all the possible side effects of Mounjaro. Review the Patient Information Leaflet before starting the treatment to familiarise yourself with all potential side effects.

How can I report the side effects of Mounjaro?

If you experience any side effects, even those not listed in the Patient Information Leaflet, report them to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme.

Warnings

What warnings does Mounjaro come with?

Mounjaro comes with a few warnings you need to know about. It has a boxed warning about the increased risk of developing thyroid cancer as demonstrated in clinical studies (Ell Lilly & Company, 2024). It is important to fully read the additional information in the patient information leaflet provided with the medication before you use it. You may need to speak to your doctor if you have severe problems with food digestion, a history of pancreatitis, diabetic eye problems, or if you are using other diabetes medications like sulphonylureas or insulin, as it may increase the risk of low blood sugar. When you first start using Mounjaro, you will need to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration. 

Who is Mounjaro suitable for?

Mounjaro is suitable for adults aged 18 and over with a BMI over 30 (classified as obese) or over 27 (classified as overweight) who also have weight-related health problems such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart problems (GOV.UK, 2023). 

Who is Mounjaro not suitable for?

Mounjaro is not suitable for individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as those with certain medical conditions such as severe problems with digesting food, a history of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer, or allergies to tirzepatide or any of its ingredients (Weiser, P; 2023). It may not be suitable for individuals using certain other diabetes medications (Watson, A; 2023). It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Mounjaro is safe and appropriate for you based on your medical history and current health status.

  • Below 18 years of age.
  • You are pregnant, actively trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
  • Anyone who has severe kidney or liver problems.
  • Type 1 diabetic patients or you are taking diabetic medication that may cause hypoglycemia, such as insulin or sulphonylureas (e.g., Gliclazide).
  • You have eating disorders or have had them in the past.
  • Are currently taking other weight loss drugs or medication that contain GLP-1 or work in the same way as Mounjaro (e.g., Byetta, Victoza, Ozempic, Saxenda, Trulicity, Wegovy).
  • You suffer from slow digestion, severe gastroparesis, or other food digestion-related problems.
  • History of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas causing severe pain in the stomach and back that doesn’t go away).
  • Eye problems such as diabetic retinopathy, macular edema, or similar issues.
  • Family or personal history of thyroid cancer, especially medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
  • Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  • If you are allergic to Mounjaro or any of its ingredients.

As Mounjaro is a new weight loss medicine in the UK, it has been assigned a black triangle, indicating it will be closely monitored for any adverse effects.

Can you use Mounjaro if you are pregnant?

No, your doctor will likely recommend not using Mounjaro (tirzepatide) if you are pregnant because it’s not currently known if it is safe to use during pregnancy (Weiser, P; 2023). Weight loss in itself is not recommended during pregnancy (OTIS, 2024). It's important to discontinue the use of Mounjaro at least one month before attempting to become pregnant. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's essential to discuss your options with a healthcare provider to ensure the safety of both you and your baby.

Can you use Mounjaro if you are breastfeeding?

The safety of using Mounjaro while breastfeeding has not been established, it’s currently unknown if tirzepatide can be passed through to the newborn/infant in breastmilk so there could be a potential safety risk. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before using Mounjaro if you are breastfeeding (EMC, 2024). They can provide guidance based on your individual circumstances and help you make an informed decision regarding the use of Mounjaro while breastfeeding.

Are there interactions between Mounjaro and other medications?

Yes, there can be interactions between Mounjaro and other medications, you can check what these medications are at Drugs.com. It's crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking before starting Mounjaro. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Your healthcare provider can then assess potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly to ensure your safety and optimise the effectiveness of your medications.

Mounjaro FAQs

Below are answers to some of the most common questions that UK Meds customers ask about the weight loss medication Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

What is the release date for Mounjaro in the UK?

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) authorised Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss and weight management in adults over the age of 18 years old on the 8th of November 2023 (GOV.UK, 2023).

Is Mounjaro available in the UK?

Yes, as of February 2024, Mounjaro is an approved medication in the United Kingdom for weight loss and weight management, available to buy for adults over the age of 18 years old with a valid prescription.

Can I get Mounjaro on the NHS?

As of October 2024, Mounjaro isn't yet available on the NHS as a medication for weight loss though NICE have announced that a consultation for how a phased launch of the weight loss medication could work after an application from NHS England (Diabetes UK, 2024).

Availability on the NHS of Mounjaro may depend on various factors, including clinical guidelines, cost-effectiveness assessments, and individual patient eligibility criteria. To find out if Mounjaro is available on the NHS and if you are eligible to receive it through NHS prescriptions, you may wish to consult with your healthcare provider, however, you can also purchase Mounjaro on a private prescription from an online provider like UK Meds.

Does Mounjaro come with swabs?

The 'instructions for use' that come with the pen recommend using swabs. These can be purchased separately elsewhere.

Who makes Mounjaro?

The Mounjaro pen is manufactured by Ell Lilly & Company. They are a pharmaceutical company known for developing various medications for a range of health conditions, including diabetes and weight management. They are a similar company to Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of popular injection treatments for diabetes (Ozempic) and weight loss (Wegovy & Saxenda).

Is Mounjaro a GLP-1?

Yes, Mounjaro is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. It contains tirzepatide, which acts as a GLP-1 receptor agonist to regulate high and low blood sugar levels, reduce appetite, and promote weight loss. This mechanism of action is similar to other medications in the GLP 1 receptor agonist class such as Wegovy, which are commonly used for the management of type 2 diabetes and weight loss.

Is Mounjaro and tirzepatide the same thing?

Yes, Mounjaro and tirzepatide are the same thing. Mounjaro is the brand name of the GLP 1 medication, while tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro (EMA, 2024). It's common for medications to have both a brand name and a generic or active ingredient name.

Can you take Mounjaro if you have high blood pressure?

Clinical studies, funded by Ell Lilly & Company, are currently ongoing to assess if Mounjaro affects cardiovascular conditions; early indications suggest that it can significantly lower blood pressure (Mammoser, 2024). Whether you can take Mounjaro if you have high blood pressure depends on your individual health status and the recommendation of your healthcare provider. Mounjaro is indicated for adults with a BMI over 30 (classified as obese) or over 27 (classified as overweight) who also have body weight-related health problems such as prediabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart problems.

How quickly do you lose weight with Mounjaro?

The rate at which individuals lose weight with Mounjaro can vary significantly depending on factors such as diet, exercise, dosage, and individual response to the medication. Clinical trials have shown that patients could achieve at least 20% weight loss after using the Mounjaro active ingredient tirzepatide for 72 weeks when combined with healthy lifestyle changes (Velazquez, A.; 2023). Results with Mounjaro will vary from person to person, however, it is viewed as an effective weight loss medication.

Does Mounjaro make you tired?

Whilst fatigue is not listed as a potential side effect of Mounjaro by the manufacturer, Ell Lilly & Company, some Mounjaro user reviews do complain of fatigue after using the medication (Drugs.com, 2023). Additionally, fatigue can be a common side effect associated with type-2 diabetes (Kalra & Sahay, 2018). While not everyone will experience fatigue while taking the medication, it is one of the possible adverse effects. If you notice excessive tiredness or any other concerning symptoms while taking Mounjaro, it's important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms and provide guidance on how to manage them effectively.

Does Mounjaro cause erectile dysfunction?

It is not currently known if the active ingredient in Mounjaro, tirzepatide, can cause the sexual health condition, erectile dysfunction (ED), further research is needed in this area to determine if erectile dysfunction could be a potential side effect tirzepatide.

Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?

No. Evidence suggests that Mounjaro does not directly cause hair loss (alopecia). In most instances, hair loss when taking the tirzepatide weight loss injections is more likely to be due to the stress of rapid weight loss on your body (Anderson, L.; 2024).

Alternative Treatments

What alternative weight loss medications are there?

Alternative weight loss medications for Mounjaro include Wegovy (semaglutide) and Saxenda (liraglutide). These medications offer different mechanisms of action and may be prescribed based on individual patient factors and preferences. It's important to discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option for your specific needs and health condition.

The table below explains how different weight loss treatments compare to each other:

 WegovySaxendaOrlistat (Xenical & Alli)Mounjaro
Active IngredientSemaglutide (the same active ingredient as the diabetes medication Ozempic)LiraglutideOrlistatTirzepatide
DosageGradual escalation to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mgGradual escalation to a maintenance dose of 3 mg120 mg - Orlistat & Xenical / 60 mg - AlliGradual dose escalation to a maximum dose of 15 mg once weekly
How does it work?Reduces appetiteReduces appetiteReduces the amount of fat absorbed by the bodyReduces appetite
How is it taken?Pen injection - can be self-administeredPen injection - can be self-administeredOral capsulePen injection - can be self-administered
When is it taken?Once per weekOnce daily - at the same time each dayUp to 3 times daily - with a mealOnce per week
How long does it take to work?Appetite should decrease within a few days of starting treatmentAppetite should decrease within a few days of starting treatmentImmediately after taking Wegovy medicationAppetite should decrease within a few days of starting treatment
How effective is it?Up to 86.5% effective - achieving a 5% or more weight loss (Singh et al, 2022)Up to 67.5% effective after 12 weeks (Wharton et al, 2020)Up to 60% effective after 12 weeks (Zohrabian, A., 2010)Up to 76% effective in helping patients to lose at least 5% of their body weight, twice as likely to lose at least 10%, and more than three times as likely to lose at least 15%, in comparison to patients taking Ozempic (Reuters, 2023).
How long can it be taken?Your doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on successYour doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on successYour doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on successYour doctor will determine the duration of treatment based on success
Is the treatment prescription-only?Yes - it is a prescription medicationYes - it is a prescription medicationOrlistat and Xenical are prescription-only. Alli is available over-the-counter.Yes - it is a prescription medication

What alternative diabetes pen treatments are there?

Alternative diabetes treatment pens include Ozempic (semaglutide) injection pen. The diabetes treatment your doctor recommends will be prescribed on your individual circumstances to ensure that it is the safest and most appropriate treatment for you. 

What is the difference between Mounjaro and Saxenda?

Mounjaro and Saxenda are both weight-loss medications, but they have differences in their active ingredients and mechanisms of action (Drugs.com). Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which works by regulating high and low blood sugar levels and curbing appetite through hormonal receptors. On the other hand, Saxenda contains liraglutide, which also acts on hormonal receptors to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. Additionally, the dosing frequency and administration method may vary between the two medications.

What is the difference between Mounjaro and Wegovy?

Mounjaro and Wegovy are both medications used for weight loss, but they have differences in their active ingredients (Drugs.com). Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which regulates blood sugar levels and manages appetite. Wegovy, on the other hand, contains semaglutide, which also acts on hormonal receptors to reduce appetite and promote weight loss. 

Wegovy and Mounjaro are both weekly pre-filled injection pens that aid in weight loss and work in similar ways. Mounjaro has shown greater effectiveness in clinical trials because it targets both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, while Wegovy only targets GLP-1. However, Mounjaro is a new medicine in the UK, so there is less long-term safety data compared to other medicines. Deciding which medicine is right for you depends on various factors that your doctor will assess during your consultation. If you’re already using Wegovy (or Saxenda) and losing weight, it’s recommended to continue using it. Remember, weight plateaus are a normal part of the weight loss journey.

Learn more about the key differences between Mounjaro and Wegovy in our weight loss injections comparison.

Can I switch from Wegovy to Mounjaro?

If you’re using Saxenda or Wegovy, you need to wait 1 month before switching to Mounjaro. This 'washout' period allows the first drug to leave your system. All first-time Mounjaro users will start with 2.5mg. Keep in mind, Mounjaro may not be suitable for everyone, even if you're already using another weight loss medicine. Your doctor will determine if it’s right for you during your consultation.

What is the difference between Mounjaro and Ozempic?

Mounjaro and Ozempic are both medications that can be used to help manage type 2 diabetes (Drugs.com). Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, while Ozempic contains semaglutide. Both medications belong to the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). Mounjaro is a weight loss medication, where as Ozempic is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. While both Ozempic and Mounjaro are GLP-1 receptor agonists, Mounjaro also mimics GIP, giving it a dual action. This means it helps with weight loss and controlling blood sugar by imitating two hormones at once.

While both medications have been shown to be effective in clinical trials, individual responses may vary, so it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable option based on individual needs and medical history. In some countries, Ozempic can be used as a weight loss medication, however, this is not the case in the UK.

Can you switch from Ozempic to Mounjaro?

Switching from Ozempic to Mounjaro is possible and safe but should only be done under the guidance and supervision of your doctor. As Ozempic is not licensed to help people lose weight in the UK, you should consult with your healthcare provider for further advice. Your healthcare provider can assess your individual health status, medication history, and treatment goals to determine if switching from Ozempic to Mounjaro is appropriate for you. 

Author

Content author

Scott Weaver

Medical Content Writer • Bachelor of Arts Degree

Scott is an experienced, skilled content writer dedicated to creating helpful and accessible medical content for UK Meds.

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Medical Reviewer

Medical Reviewer

Alexis Missick

General Practitioner (GP) • MBChB

With a decade of experience in the NHS and six years internationally, Alexis is a seasoned General Practitioner hailing from Turks and Caicos.

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