Diabetes Management
Mounjaro for Weight Loss: Is It Safe and Effective?
4 min read
By Apollo 24|7, Published on - 30 March 2025, Updated on - 23 April 2025
Share this article
0
9 likes
Losing weight is often a challenging journey, and despite following strict diets and exercise routines, many people struggle to achieve their weight loss goals. In recent years, medications like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have emerged as promising solutions for individuals facing obesity or weight management issues. But it's important to know how effective Mounjaro is, if it is safe for everyone and what we should know before considering it. In this guide, we will explore everything about Mounjaro for weight loss, including its mechanism of action, scientific evidence, real-life experiences, safety considerations, and its availability in India.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro (chemical salt is called tirzepatide) is an injectable prescription medication initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes. However, during clinical trials, researchers found that it also leads to significant weight loss. As a result, it is now gaining popularity as a weight management treatment for individuals struggling with obesity.
Mounjaro stands out from other weight loss medications because it targets two key hormone systems: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual action enhances appetite regulation and blood sugar control, making it more effective than medications that only act on a single hormone.
How Does Mounjaro Help with Weight Loss?
Mounjaro promotes weight loss through two primary mechanisms:
- Regulating Appetite: By targeting the GLP-1 and GIP hormones, Mounjaro helps reduce hunger, making individuals feel full for longer and decreasing food cravings.
- Slowing Digestion: It delays the emptying of the stomach, leading to increased satiety and reduced calorie intake.
These effects create a natural calorie deficit, helping individuals lose weight steadily and sustainably.
Scientific Evidence on Mounjaro’s Effectiveness for Weight Loss
Several clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of Mounjaro for weight loss. Mounjaro has dual benefits for both weight loss and blood sugar control. Studies have found that Mounjaro helps maintain long-term weight loss, reducing the chances of regaining weight once treatment is discontinued. These findings in the study suggest that Mounjaro is one of the most effective medications available for weight management.
Potential Side Effects of Mounjaro
Like any medication, Mounjaro may cause side effects, especially when starting or adjusting the dosage. These can range from mild to serious, and it’s important to be aware of them.
1. Common Side Effects
Most side effects of Mounjaro are mild and tend to improve over time as your body adjusts. These may include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Reduced appetite
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
2. Serious Side Effects
Although rare, some individuals may experience more serious side effects that require medical attention:
- Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the Pancreas): Seek immediate medical help if you experience severe, persistent stomach pain.
- Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): This is more common when Mounjaro is combined with insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms include dizziness, sweating, confusion, and a rapid heartbeat.
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Watch for signs such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, severe rash, or fainting.
- Kidney Issues: Dehydration caused by vomiting, diarrhoea, or nausea can worsen kidney problems.
- Gastrointestinal Problems: Persistent stomach discomfort should be reported to your doctor.
- Vision Changes: Any changes in eyesight should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
- Gallbladder Issues: Symptoms like upper stomach pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or clay-coloured stools may indicate gallbladder problems.
Who Should Avoid Mounjaro?
Mounjaro may not be safe for everyone. You should avoid taking it if:
- You or a family member have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
- You have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- You are allergic to tirzepatide or any ingredient in Mounjaro.
- You have a history of pancreatitis.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You have severe stomach or digestive issues.
- You have type 1 diabetes.
- You are under 18 years old.
Before starting Mounjaro, consult with your doctor to discuss your medical history and determine if it’s the right option for you.
How to Use Mounjaro for Weight Loss?
Mounjaro is administered as a once-weekly injection. Here’s how it works:
- Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage.
- The injection can be self-administered at home.
- Regular monitoring is essential to track progress and manage any side effects.
For best results, Mounjaro should be combined with healthy eating habits and regular exercise.
Mounjaro in India: Availability and Cost
Mounjaro is available in India by prescription only. The cost varies based on dosage and location. To obtain Mounjaro:
- Consult an endocrinologist or weight-loss specialist to evaluate if Mounjaro is suitable for you.
- Purchase from authorised pharmacies such as Apollo Pharmacy with a valid prescription. Currently, Mounjaro is exclusively available on Apollo 24|7.
- Book an online consultation with platforms like Apollo 24|7 for expert guidance.
Conclusion: Is Mounjaro Right for You?
Mounjaro has proven to be a safe and effective option for weight loss, especially for individuals struggling with obesity or diabetes. Scientific research and real-world success stories highlight its potential to help people achieve sustainable weight loss.
However, like any medication, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before starting treatment. If you are in India and considering Mounjaro, platforms like Apollo 24|7 can connect you with specialists for personalised guidance. Consult a doctor today to determine if Mounjaro is the right choice for your weight-loss journey!
Diabetes Management
Consult Top Diabetologists
View AllFrequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Mounjaro work for weight loss?
How quickly does Mounjaro work for weight loss?
Do I need to exercise while taking Mounjaro?
Do I need to exercise while taking Mounjaro?
Can Mounjaro be used long-term?
Can Mounjaro be used long-term?
Will I regain weight if I stop Mounjaro?
Will I regain weight if I stop Mounjaro?
How does Mounjaro help with weight loss?
How does Mounjaro help with weight loss?
Leave Comment
Recommended for you
Diabetes Management
Turning Back the Clock on Diabetes: Insights into Successful HbA1c Reversal
Reversing diabetes may soon be more than just wishful thinking. Recent research studies reveal the potential for treatment dynamics to shift from just managing the disease to actually reversing your HbA1C levels. Encouraging results from new strategies such as intensive lifestyle therapy point towards a future where turning back the clock on diabetes might be possible.
Diabetes Management
Potatoes & Diabetes: Ways To Consume Potatoes Without Spiking Blood Sugar
Potatoes are a popular and versatile food rich in vitamins and minerals. However, the glycemic index (GI) of potatoes varies depending on the cooking method. Fried potatoes have a high GI score of 95, while boiled potatoes have a low GI score of 50. Besides, sweet potatoes, which have a GI score of 61, are also a safe alternative to consume if you are diagnosed with diabetes.
Diabetes Management
Does Diabetes Increase the Risk of Heart Disease in Younger Women?
A study revealed that women with diabetes, regardless of age, face the highest risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Those under 55 years had a 10.71 adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), while those over 75 had a 3.47 aHR. Younger women exhibited more CHD risk factors, including metabolic syndrome, hypertension, obesity, smoking, high lipoprotein insulin resistance (LPIR), and LDL cholesterol levels. Notably, women under 55 with type 2 diabetes had a tenfold higher CHD risk within 20 years.
Subscribe
Sign up for our free Health Library Daily Newsletter
Get doctor-approved health tips, news, and more.
Visual Stories
8 Fruits That are Incredibly Healthy for Diabetes
Tap to continue exploring
Recommended for you
Diabetes Management
Turning Back the Clock on Diabetes: Insights into Successful HbA1c Reversal
Reversing diabetes may soon be more than just wishful thinking. Recent research studies reveal the potential for treatment dynamics to shift from just managing the disease to actually reversing your HbA1C levels. Encouraging results from new strategies such as intensive lifestyle therapy point towards a future where turning back the clock on diabetes might be possible.
Diabetes Management
Potatoes & Diabetes: Ways To Consume Potatoes Without Spiking Blood Sugar
Potatoes are a popular and versatile food rich in vitamins and minerals. However, the glycemic index (GI) of potatoes varies depending on the cooking method. Fried potatoes have a high GI score of 95, while boiled potatoes have a low GI score of 50. Besides, sweet potatoes, which have a GI score of 61, are also a safe alternative to consume if you are diagnosed with diabetes.
Diabetes Management
Does Diabetes Increase the Risk of Heart Disease in Younger Women?
A study revealed that women with diabetes, regardless of age, face the highest risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Those under 55 years had a 10.71 adjusted hazard ratio (aHR), while those over 75 had a 3.47 aHR. Younger women exhibited more CHD risk factors, including metabolic syndrome, hypertension, obesity, smoking, high lipoprotein insulin resistance (LPIR), and LDL cholesterol levels. Notably, women under 55 with type 2 diabetes had a tenfold higher CHD risk within 20 years.