Last updated: 23-07-2024
Mounjaro is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. This means it sticks to certain proteins in the body. This tells the body to release insulin. As a result, you feel less hungry. It also controls your blood sugar. This can help you lose weight.
UK experts recently approved Mounjaro to treat type 2 diabetes and support weight loss. It is now easily available to buy online in the UK.
If you think Mounjaro is right for you, you should talk to your GP. In this article, we’ve put together the important information to get you started.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a new drug for diabetes. It is one of a group of medicines that also help with weight loss. It contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. This tells the body to release insulin. As a result, people who use it feel less hungry.
The MHRA makes sure medicines in the UK are safe and effective. It approved the use of Mounjaro for weight loss in November 2023. Since then, many people have lost weight with Mounjaro.
Mounjaro is injected. This is like drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy. However, there are key differences between these popular diabetes treatments.
How does Mounjaro work?
Mounjaro is not like other weight loss medicines. It sticks to two types of receptors in the body. Therefore, we call it a ‘dual agonist’ medicine. It works better than ‘single agonist’ drugs.
The receptors tell the body to make hormones. These hormones control your blood sugar and make you less hungry. This helps you lose weight.
Clinical trials show that Mounjaro’s active ingredient helps people with obesity lose weight in 72 weeks. However, it won’t work alone. You also need to exercise regularly and eat right.
Who should consider taking Mounjaro?
Many doctors are worried about using Mounjaro as a weight loss treatment. This is because it was only recently launched in the UK. We don’t know its long-term effects yet.
Mounjaro might be right for you if:
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You are over 18 and struggling with obesity or other weight-related health issues.
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You have a BMI over 27 with weight issues.
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You have high blood pressure and weight problems.
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You have type 2 diabetes.
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You can’t lose weight with exercise and a controlled diet.
If this is you, talk to your GP. Mounjaro offers many benefits. However, people with some medical conditions, such as digestive issues, will need dosage adjustments.
How is Mounjaro different from other weight loss medicines?
There are a lot of weight loss drugs on the market. We’ve set out some of the important differences.
Mounjaro vs Wegovy
Both Wegovy (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are injected weekly. However:
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Wegovy is approved for patients over 12. Mounjaro is only approved for those over 18.
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Mounjaro is more effective than Wegovy (based on current data).
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Mounjaro is more cost-effective than Wegovy.
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Clinical trials show that Wegovy also reduces the risk of severe heart problems by 20%. Mounjaro is not approved for this purpose.
Mounjaro vs Ozempic
Both Ozempic and Mounjaro are injected weekly. However:
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Ozempic costs slightly less than Mounjaro.
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Mounjaro has a dual agonist formula. Ozempic is a single agonist medicine.
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Clinical trials suggest that Mounjaro may be more effective for weight loss than Ozempic.
Mounjaro vs Zepbound
Both Mounjaro and Zepbound have tirzepatide as their active ingredient. Therefore, they have similar side effects. They both come in pre-filled, single-dose injector pens for weekly use. However:
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Zepbound is approved by the FDA for weight loss treatment in adults. Mounjaro is awaiting this approval in the UK.
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Mounjaro costs around $10 more than Zepbound.
Side effects of Mounjaro
As with any medicine, Mounjaro can cause side effects.
Common side effects
Most users will experience these side effects while taking Mounjaro. They do not pose much risk and should not last long. If any side effects go on for a long time, talk to your GP. Common side effects include:
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Indigestion
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Feeling sick
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Constipation
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Tiredness
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Dry mouth
Severe side effects
Some side effects can be serious. Look out for:
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Anxiety
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Depression
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Blurred vision
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Low blood sugar
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Rashes
Mounjaro alternatives
Mounjaro has quickly become popular. However, other effective options are available.
Each medicine has its pros and cons. They also work differently. Choosing the right one for your body and health status will have better results.
Mounjaro alternatives include:
Conclusion
More and more people worldwide are concerned about losing weight. Many medicines can support weight loss. Mounjaro is quickly becoming a key choice.
This drug reduces hunger, helping patients eat less. Clinical results show quick and significant weight loss due to its dual receptor formula.
You must have a valid prescription to get Mounjaro. Like every other medicine, Mounjaro has side effects. These include depression, feeling sick, rashes and low blood pressure. When buying Mounjaro online, talk to a qualified doctor. It is best to do this over a video call. That way, they can assess properly whether Mounjaro is right for you.