Mounjaro

What is Mounjaro?

By now, we’ve all heard about the injectable GLP-1 weight loss solutions, but what exactly do these medications do? Glucagon-like peptide-1 inhibitors are FDA approved injectable medications administered into subcutaneous (fat) tissue to regulate blood sugar levels, alter insulin secretion, delay gastric emptying, and increase satiety for weight management and blood sugar control. Clinical trials have consistently shown lowered body mass index when compared to placebo.

Mounjaro (or Zepbound) by Eli Lilly is food and drug administration approved to treat patients with ann overweight or obesity category BMI. Mounjaro is not indicated for obesity but rather type 2 diabetes. Zepbound is also a brand name tirzepatide and is indicated specifically for weight loss.

The GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide branded as Ozempic or Wegovy is similar to Mounjaro.

What cosmetic/health concerns does Mounjaro address?

Mounjaro reduces body weight by changing several mechanisms of blood sugar control and movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro may also reduce the risk of other weight-related diseases like cardiovascular disease (including heart attacks and high cholesterol) and high blood pressure.

Who is the ideal candidate for Mounjaro?

The ideal candidate for Mounjaro is overweight or obese. Those with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or tumors, other endocrine neoplasias, chronic kidney disease, history of allergic reaction, gallbladder problems or certain cardiovascular diseases are not good candidates for Mounjaro.

What are the potential side effects of Mounjaro?

Mounjaro side effects range from mild to severe. Mild side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. More serious side effects include hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), pancreatitis (an infection of the pancreas), and diabetic retinopathy complications.

What can someone expect from the results of Mounjaro?

The results of Mounjaro will start to become visible within a few weeks if consistent use. Mounjaro is taken in progressively increased doses raised every four weeks. Patients can expect to begin losing weight within the first two months of use. Long term weight management may be challenging for some individuals who for any reason stop taking glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists. Mounjaro is not a substitute for physical activity, a reduced calorie diet, and other healthy habits.

What is the average cost of Mounjaro?

The actual cost of Mounjaro will vary but generally falls between $1,000 and $3,000 per month without insurance. Medication cost is dependent on a candidate’s location, healthcare provider, and insurance.

Is it worth it?

When considering the question of is Mounjaro worth it, it’s important to set realistic expectations around treatment goals which will help both a candidate and their provider achieve the best results possible.

Mounjaro is not a permanent solution and it will be up to the individual patient as to how they adapt their lifestyle and habits to maintain their results.