Mounjaro, a new treatment approved by the UK’s MHRA, offers a promising option for those looking to manage their weight. It’s designed to be used with a healthy diet and exercise, helping to improve blood sugar levels and support weight management. This injectable medicine is part of a broader weight management strategy that emphasises a healthier lifestyle through dietary changes, physical activity, and behavioural adjustments.
Mounjaro, manufactured by Eli Lilly, is an injectable prescription medicine that alongside diet and exercise, improves blood sugar (glucose) in adults with type 2 diabetes. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK approved Mounjaro for weight loss and weight management treatment in November 2023, making it available on prescription for both NHS and private patients.
Mounjaro works by mimicking the effects of incretin hormones, which are natural substances in the body that help regulate blood sugar levels. This mechanism of action not only aids in controlling blood sugar but also contributes to a feeling of fullness, thereby reducing overall food intake. As a result, Mounjaro can be an effective tool for weight loss, particularly for those who have struggled with traditional diet and exercise alone.
How mounjaro works
The dual action of tirzepatide through GLP-1 and GIP receptors makes Mounjaro a versatile tool in managing both blood sugar levels and weight. By mimicking GLP-1, Mounjaro helps regulate glucose metabolism, leading to improved glycemic control, which is crucial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
The reduced hunger and slowed gastric emptying contribute to lower calorie intake, which is beneficial for weight loss and overall weight management. This combination effect not only aids in controlling blood sugar but also supports sustained weight loss by addressing the physiological factors that drive overeating.
Furthermore, GIP’s role in energy balance adds another layer of efficacy to Mounjaro. By influencing energy regulation in the brain and fat cells, GIP helps optimise metabolic processes and enhances the effectiveness of GLP-1 in suppressing appetite. This synergy between GLP-1 and GIP provides a robust strategy for managing obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Results and Benefits of Mounjaro
The benefits of this multifaceted approach to weight loss go beyond aesthetics. Reducing excess weight can significantly lower the risk of health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension.
Furthermore, it can alleviate joint pain, enhance mobility and improve overall quality of life.
FAQ
Is Mounjaro used for weight loss?
Mounjaro can assist with weight loss in individuals with type 2 diabetes as it helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. Although its primary purpose is not weight loss, patients may experience reduced body weight with regular use.
What is Mounjaro injection for?
Mounjaro injection is used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. It helps regulate insulin and glucose levels in the body, making it a useful treatment for diabetes management.
What are the side effects of Mounjaro?
Common side effects of Mounjaro include nausea, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. Some patients may also experience more serious effects like pancreatitis or allergic reactions, so it's important to consult a doctor before use.
Is Mounjaro approved for weight loss?
Mounjaro is not specifically approved for weight loss, but it has been shown to promote weight reduction in patients using it for type 2 diabetes. Weight loss is considered a secondary benefit rather than its primary indication.
Can you get Mounjaro in Saudi Arabia?
Yes, you can get Mounjaro in Saudi Arabia through pharmacies or healthcare providers. It's important to have a prescription from a healthcare professional before obtaining Mounjaro for diabetes treatment.