Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging. Recent developments in weight loss medications have opened up new options for people struggling to lose weight through traditional methods.
One of the newer medications is Mounjaro, which has gained attention for its promising effects on weight loss.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about Mounjaro for weight loss: how it works, its cost, administration, clinical benefits, potential side effects, and how it compares to other popular weight loss medications.
Key takeaways:
Mounjaro has shown significant effectiveness for weight loss. It works by targeting GLP-1 and GIP receptors to regulate appetite and blood sugar.
Mounjaro is administered via a subcutaneous injection, usually once per week. The best place to inject Mounjaro for weight loss include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
While Mounjaro can help people achieve significant weight loss, it can also cause a few side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Mounjaro can be an expensive option for weight loss, especially without insurance coverage.
If you cannot use Mounjaro due to its side effects, contraindications, limitations, or high cost, you can consider using alternative weight loss drugs, including compounded versions of Semaglutide and Tirzepatide.
Does Mounjaro Help with Weight Loss?
Mounjaro is the brand name for the active ingredient, Tirzepatide. Produced by Eli Lilly, Mounjaro targets two key receptors: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), helping regulate blood sugar levels and curb appetite. [1]
These dual mechanisms make it particularly effective for weight management in people with obesity or those who have struggled to lose weight with other treatments.
How Mounjaro Works for Weight Loss
The active ingredient of Mounjaro, Tirzepatide, works by producing an effect similar to that of 2 natural hormones called GLP-1 and GIP. This mechanism of action is based on Tirzepatide’s ability to activate the GLP-1 and GIP receptors in the brain, which regulate hunger and fullness. [2]
By acting as a dual GLP-1 and GIP agonist, Mounjaro slows gastric emptying, creates feeling of fullness, and lowers appetite. These effects contribute to faster weight loss. In addition, its GIP receptor agonist effect further helps with weight loss by curbing cravings and promoting fat metabolism.
These effects make Mounjaro particularly effective for weight loss. It helps control hunger pangs, reduces the temptation to overeat, and maintains stable blood sugar levels, which can prevent energy crashes that often lead to unhealthy snacking.
Clinical Benefits of Mounjaro for Weight Loss
Mounjaro offers several health benefits, making it an effective option for weight management:
Effective Appetite Control
Mounjaro reduces appetite and food cravings and makes it easier to reduce your total calorie intake and lose stubborn pounds. [3]
Supports Long-Term Weight Management
Studies have shown that regular use of Mounjaro can help sustain weight loss when combined with appropriate lifestyle changes. [4]
Improved Blood Sugar Control
Mounjaro helps regulate blood glucose levels. This can help maintain energy boosts, thus reducing the chances of binge eating after a period of low-calorie intake or fasting. These effects of Tirzepatide contribute to weight loss. [5]
Reduced Risk of Chronic Conditions
By supporting chronic weight management, Mounjaro can reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnea. It can also support cardiovascular health, reduce cholesterol levels, and decrease the risk of heart attacks and weight gain. [6]
Convenient Dosage Schedule
As a once-weekly injection, Mounjaro offers ease of use. It doesn’t require daily injections, potentially reducing the risk of injection site reactions.
How Mounjaro is Administered
Mounjaro is administered via a subcutaneous injection, usually once per week. The best place to inject Mounjaro for weight loss include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The medication is relatively simple to self-administer at home.
The exact Mounjaro dose for weight loss can be determined based on your body weight and specific health needs.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and monitor your progress. You can talk to our healthcare experts at Amp Health to find out the most suitable dosage of weight loss medication, depending on your current weight, weight loss goals, and personal preferences.
Cost of Mounjaro for Weight Loss
Mounjaro can be an expensive option for weight loss, especially without insurance coverage. The cost of Mounjaro, manufactured by Eli Lilly, typically ranges between $1,000 to $1,800 per month.
While some health insurance plans may cover Mounjaro for people with type 2 diabetes, coverage for weight loss may be limited or denied, increasing the financial burden. Even with partial insurance support, out-of-pocket costs can be high for many people looking for long-term weight management solutions.
For those seeking more affordable alternatives, compounded Semaglutide or Tirzepatide may be suitable options. Compounding pharmacies can prepare customized doses of weight loss drugs at a lower cost, using active ingredients like Semaglutide (the primary ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) or Tirzepatide (used in Mounjaro).
Potential Side Effects of Mounjaro
While Mounjaro has helped many people achieve significant weight loss, it is not without potential side effects.
Some common side effects of this weight loss medication include:
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Frequent burping
- Constipation
- Irregular bowel movement
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder disease
In addition, some medical conditions can affect how Mounjaro works in the body. People diagnosed with these medical conditions need to be cautious and avoid using the medication.
Some contraindications for Mounjaro include:
- Pregnancy
- History of thyroid tumors
- Gallbladder Problems
- Conditions affecting the pancreas
- Kidney Problems
Another limitation of Mounjaro is its high cost. The price of this drug can be prohibitive, especially for people without insurance coverage.
If you cannot use Mounjaro due to its side effects, contraindications, limitations, or high cost, you can consider using alternative weight loss drugs. You can make a telehealth appointment with Amp Health’s weight loss coach to know how to get Mounjaro for weight loss and learn more about low-cost alternatives for Mounjaro.
Our doctors will analyze your case and prescribe a suitable weight loss medication, such as compounded Semaglutide or Tirzepatide, which are available at a lower cost. Our coach will also recommend a personalized diet and lifestyle plan for sustainable weight loss.
Who Should Consider Mounjaro
Mounjaro may be suitable for individuals:
- Having obesity.
- Who cannot lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
- Needing to manage type 2 diabetes alongside weight loss.
- Experiencing health complications due to obesity or excess weight, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, or insulin resistance.
Comparing Mounjaro to Other Weight Loss Medications
Ozempic and Wegovy vs. Mounjaro
Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Wegovy (a higher-dose Semaglutide specifically approved for weight loss) are also GLP-1 agonists, widely used for weight loss.
However, Mounjaro has a unique mechanism that combines GLP-1 with GIP, which may offer added benefits in both appetite suppression and obesity management.
Clinical trials indicate that Mounjaro might achieve greater weight loss on average than Semaglutide-based medications, though individual responses vary.
Compounded Semaglutide or Tirzepatide
Compounded Semaglutide is a less expensive option offered by licensed compounding pharmacies at a lower cost. It is available in the form of injectables, oral tablets, and oral drops.
Compounded Tirzepatide is another cheaper alternative to Mounjaro. It contains the same active ingredient, Tirzepatide. It can be a suitable alternative to Mounjaro for you if you are concerned about how to get Mounjaro for weight loss at low cost.
Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are custom compounded by pharmacies to suit individual needs, offering a tailored approach to weight management. These formulations can lead to significant weight loss by reducing hunger, curbing cravings, and increasing feelings of fullness.
Most importantly, compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide offer a low-cost alternative to Mounjaro.
However, it is important to verify that the pharmacy you choose is accredited by a recognized body to ensure adherence to high standards of practice and quality and confirm that it follows state and federal regulations for compounding.
Also, make sure that compounded Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is dispensed with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Testimonials
“After struggling with the cost of Mounjaro for months, I decided to try Amp Health’s compounded Semaglutide. Amp Health’s team explained everything in detail, helping me understand the dosing and effects. I finally feel like I’m making progress without breaking the bank!”
-29/M
“I was worried about switching from Mounjaro, but Amp Health’s compounded Tirzepatide option has been fantastic! They tailored the dosage just for me, and I’m seeing steady weight loss with fewer side effects. I appreciate the personalized approach and how Amp Health makes this journey accessible.”
-33/F
“The team at Amp Health was amazing in helping me transition to compounded Semaglutide. They walked me through the process, checked in regularly, and even provided lifestyle tips to enhance my results. My energy is up, the weight is coming off, and I’m finally staying on budget!”
-42/M
Mounjaro for Weight Loss: FAQs
Can Anyone Get Mounjaro For Weight Loss?
Yes, you can get Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) for weight loss. However, your eligibility will depend on individual health needs, your BMI, and the discretion of your healthcare provider.
How Quickly Do You Lose Weight On Mounjaro?
Weight loss on Mounjaro varies per individual, but clinical trials have shown impressive results.
Many people start noticing weight changes within a few weeks, with more significant losses after three months. On average, users have reported reductions in body weight of about 15-20% over a year.
What Are The Cons Of Taking Mounjaro?
While Mounjaro has been effective for many, it does have drawbacks. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Other considerations include the high cost and the fact that Mounjaro must be administered via injection.
Which Is Better, Ozempic Or Mounjaro For Weight Loss?
Both Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) are effective, but Mounjaro has shown greater weight loss in studies, potentially due to its dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors, compared to Ozempic’s GLP-1 focus.
Conclusion
Mounjaro represents a promising option for those struggling with obesity or weight-related health conditions. With its dual action on GLP-1 and GIP receptors, Mounjaro can lead to meaningful weight loss, but its benefits come with considerations, such as cost and potential side effects.
If you’re considering how to get Mounjaro for weight loss, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether it’s the right choice for you, set realistic weight loss goals, and create a comprehensive lifestyle plan to support long-term success.
To learn more about Mounjaro for weight loss, book an appointment with our weight loss coach at Amp Health. You can also subscribe to our Amp Health Program, which includes consultations with our doctor, nutritionist, and coach, in addition to the monthly subscription of compounded Semaglutide ($79/month + cost of medication).
If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on our website are based on information drawn from medical research, societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
DISCLAIMER
If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on our website are based on information drawn from medical research, societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36751934/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585056/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10159347/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585056/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38388874/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37932236/
