Mounjaro Injections - Weight Loss Treatment

Mounjaro, manufactured by Eli Lilly, is a groundbreaking treatment for weight loss that is available in a once-weekly injectable form. It features the active ingredient tirzepatide, a dual-action peptide miming the effects of natural incretin hormones GIP and GLP-1. These hormones help regulate blood sugar levels, control appetite, and promote a feeling of fullness, making Mounjaro an effective tool in weight management.

Mounjaro injections have recently been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK. They are available by prescription for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or above, or 27 kg/m² with weight-related health conditions.

What is Mounjaro Injection used for?

Mounjaro is primarily used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and for weight management in adults who are overweight or obese. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports weight loss by mimicking natural hormones that control appetite and digestion.

How does Mounjaro Injection work?

Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which mimics the actions of GLP-1 and GIP hormones. These hormones help regulate appetite, promote feelings of fullness, and slow down stomach emptying, leading to reduced food intake and better blood sugar control.

Who can use Mounjaro Injection?

Mounjaro is prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or a BMI of 27 or more with additional health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. A healthcare professional must evaluate the suitability of this treatment for each individual.

What are the common side effects of Mounjaro Injection?

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and stomach pain. These side effects are usually mild and tend to diminish as the body adjusts to the medication.

How is Mounjaro Injection administered?

Mounjaro is administered once a week using a pre-filled injection pen. The injection is typically given under the skin of the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. The starting dose is 2.5mg, which can be gradually increased based on the patient's response.

Are there any dietary or lifestyle recommendations while using Mounjaro Injection?

For best results, use Mounjaro in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active will support weight loss and improve overall health outcomes.

How long does it take to see results with Mounjaro Injection?

Weight loss may take several weeks to become noticeable, although it can sometimes be seen in the first few weeks. Consistent use and adherence to a healthy lifestyle enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.

Mounjaro is a prescription-only medication and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional. It is not suitable for:

• - Individuals under 18 years old Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• - Those allergic to tirzepatide or any other ingredient in Mounjaro Individuals with a history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome 2 (MEN 2)
• - People with severe kidney problems, pancreatitis, or severe gastrointestinal issues
• - Consult your doctor before starting Mounjaro if you have a history of gallbladder disease, eye problems like diabetic retinopathy, or other significant medical conditions.

Mounjaro is used by ONCE weekly injections. These injections are done subcutenously, this means injected under the first layer of the skin. Injections are completed on the same day each week. Each Mounjaro pen you receive will contain 4 doses within it. You will complete the injections yourself, the injection technique is easy and will be given support in how to do this safely! You can also see guidance including a video on how to use Mounjaro here. Its important that you rotate the injection site each week to limit bruising and infection risk.  Mounjaro has 6 different doses. You will start with the lowest dose, 2.5mg and inject one dose per week for 4 weeks. Following this you will increase to 5mg for 4 weeks then 7.5mg for 4 weeks, then 10mg for 4 weeks, then 12.5mg for 4 weeks and then finally 15mg weekly which is your maintenance dose. You can see the full dosing schedule here We will provide you with enough needles to use the Mounjaro. It is important that you dispose of the needle into the sharps bin after each use and no needle should ever be reused. Mounjaro can be injected in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm at any time during the day, with or without food. It’s recommended that you use it around the same time each week — this will regulate the medication’s effectiveness. Mounjaro can be kept unrefrigerated for up to 21 days but we recommend that you keep it in fridge storage throughout its use. Preparation:

• - Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
• - Choose an injection site (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm)

Injection:

• - Check the pen for any damage or expiration
• - Attach a new needle to the pen
• - Prime the pen to release air bubbles
• - Set the dosage according to your prescription
• - Insert the needle into the chosen injection site
• - Push the dose knob and count to five before removing the needle
• - Dispose of the needle in a sharps bin and replace the pen cap

Consistency:

• - Administer the injection on the same day each week
• - Follow a reduced-calorie diet and engage in regular physical activity for optimal results.

Active Ingredient:

• - Tirzepatide

Inactive Ingredients:

• - Sodium Chloride
• - Sodium Phosphate
• - Dibasic Heptahydrate
• - Water

Like all medicines, Mounjaro can cause side effects. Not everybody experiences them, but if you do, they usually settle after a few weeks once you get used to the medication. One of the reasons for the gradual increase in medication every four weeks is to allow your body to tolerate the medication so that these side effects are less likely to happen or be less problematic. Very Common:

• - Nausea
• - Diarrhea
• - Vomiting
• - Constipation

Common:

• - Loss of appetite
• - Indigestion
• - Stomach pain
• - Dizziness
• - Low blood sugar (if taken with certain diabetes medications)
• - Low blood pressure
• - Rapid heartbeat
• - Hair loss
• - Fatigue

Uncommon:

• - Gallstones
• - Injection site pain
• - Gallbladder infection
• - Inflammation of the pancreas

Serious Side Effects:

• - Pancreatitis
• - Severe allergic reactions
• - Severe gastrointestinal issues

If you experience any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., difficulty breathing or severe abdominal pain), seek immediate medical attention. If you develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as difficulty in breathing, rash, or swelling of the face, lips or tongue, then you should also seek help immediately. Please refer to the patient information leaflet for more information regarding side effects.