weight loss
∙3 minute read
Mounjaro is an effective obesity treatment that restricts appetite and offers game-changing potential to manage obesity. However, its success has also made it a target for misuse by those seeking quick fixes.
Let's get to the bottom of the issues here.
Mounjaro (which contains the active ingredient, tirzepatide), is a medication prescribed for individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity. It can lead to significant weight loss and better glucose control. However, its benefits are tied to these specific health conditions and it’s not a quick fix. Studies, including one published in the New England Journal of Medicine, highlight its effectiveness for weight loss when combined with lifestyle modifications.1
These benefits are strictly for those with the conditions it’s designed to treat. No evidence supports its use in healthy individuals or those not fitting the BMI criteria. Misusing it doesn’t just counter the benefits - it could also create new health problems.
A recent news report highlights the dangers of misusing weight loss drugs like Mounjaro.2 An A&E doctor revealed that on nearly every shift, they saw patients with complications from illicitly obtained weight loss drugs.
One case involved a young girl who landed in A&E with life-threatening symptoms after taking Wegovy, a similar drug, obtained through an online doctor service. She wasn’t overweight and had severe side effects, including starvation ketoacidosis.
Taking Mounjaro when you don’t need it can lead to several health risks and side effects.
Such as:
Hypoglycaemia: One major risk is hypoglycaemia3. Mounjaro lowers blood sugar levels. If your body doesn’t need this effect, you could experience dangerously low blood sugar. Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and fainting. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures or even coma.
Gastrointestinal issues: Mounjaro can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea3. For diabetic patients, these are side effects which the benefits outweigh. For someone misusing the drug, it can be debilitating.
Pancreatitis: This is a potentially life-threatening condition. Mounjaro has been linked to an increased risk of pancreatitis3. The symptoms are severe abdominal pain and persistent vomiting. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.
Gallbladder problems: The drug can also increase the risk of gallbladder disease3. Symptoms include intense pain in your upper abdomen, fever, and jaundice.
For a full list of side effects always read the leaflet for any medication you are taking.
If you don't meet the criteria for weight loss medications but just want to be ‘beach ready’, consider some alternatives rather than going for medication. There are many proven, safe, medication-free methods to improve your overall health, not just weight. Here are some health-focused strategies to try:
Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This includes activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Eating a balanced diet: Focus on whole foods. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
Getting regular check-ups: Don’t wait until something’s wrong. Regular check-ups or blood tests can catch issues early. They can provide peace of mind.
Managing stress: Stress has a significant impact on your health4. Find healthy ways to manage it. This could include hobbies, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
If you're struggling with eating habits, consider seeking support from eating disorder services.
If you’re considering taking Mounjaro, talk to a healthcare professional first, such as one of our clinicians. They can provide guidance based on your individual health needs and ensure you’re eligible for the medication.
A gold-standard weight loss programme would include:
Clinically-proven medication: Prescription medications help control your appetite, curb cravings, and enhance your metabolism.
Continuous clinical care: Our clinicians help manage potential side effects, make dosage adjustments, and answer any questions you might have.
One-to-one coaching: Unlimited access to nutritionists, exercise physiologists, and behaviour change experts. They’ll give you tailored advice to establish lasting habits.
Mounjaro isn’t a shortcut nor is it a miracle drug. It’s a prescription medication that needs to be combined with lifestyle modifications for best use. Misusing it can lead to severe health consequences.
1. Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., Ahmad, N. N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M. C., & Stefanski, A. (2022). Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205–216. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038
2. Bowie, K. (2024, June 12). ‘It terrifies me’: Girl landed in A&E after buying Wegovy from Boots. C+D. https://www.chemistanddruggist.co.uk
3. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2022). Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injection label. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf
4. Schneiderman, N., Ironson, G., & Siegel, S. D. (2005). Stress and health: psychological, behavioral, and biological determinants. Annual review of clinical psychology, 1, 607–628. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.1.102803.144141
