Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) Injection

• Once-weekly weight management injection
• UK pharmacist assessment required before treatment
• Used alongside healthy eating and increased physical activity

A New Approach to Long-Term Weight Management

For some adults in the UK living with overweight or obesity, losing weight through diet and exercise alone can be challenging. Many factors can influence body weight, including appetite, hormones, lifestyle, medical conditions and genetics. Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is a UK-authorised, prescription-only weight loss medicine given as a once-weekly injection to support long-term weight management in eligible adults when used alongside healthier eating habits and regular exercise.

At NuMe, we understand that there is no single approach that works for everyone. Weight management is a long-term weight loss journey, and treatment decisions should be based on your individual health needs, medical history and lifestyle. If Mounjaro may be suitable for you, it is intended to be used alongside lifestyle changes rather than as a replacement for them, with support from a clinical team as part of a broader healthcare plan.

Every patient is assessed individually through an online consultation before treatment is prescribed. This helps ensure that the medicine is appropriate and can be used safely. Below, we explain how Mounjaro works, who may be eligible, what the treatment pathway involves, what clinical trials have shown, how dosing and side effects are managed, and how it compares with other prescription weight management medicines in the UK.

Meet Mounjaro®

Mounjaro is a prescription weight loss medicine containing the active ingredient tirzepatide. It is given as a once-weekly injection using a pre-filled pen that is designed for self-administration after suitable guidance has been provided, including when prescribed as Mounjaro for weight loss.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) authorised Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management in the UK following clinical evidence demonstrating its effectiveness for eligible adults living with obesity or overweight with weight-related health conditions.

The medicine works by acting on natural hormones involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation. These hormones help regulate blood sugar levels while improving sugar control, and they also signal to the brain and fat cells in ways that influence appetite. GIP regulates energy balance, which can affect fat cells as part of the body's wider energy balance, while helping your brain recognise when you have eaten enough food and may slow the movement of food through your stomach after meals. As a result, some people feel fuller for longer, experience fewer food cravings and find it easier to reduce their calorie intake.

Mounjaro has been licensed in the United Kingdom for specific medical uses and should only be supplied following an appropriate clinical assessment. It is not intended for cosmetic weight loss or for people who do not meet the treatment criteria.

At NuMe, treatment is only considered after a healthcare professional or independent prescriber and NuMe's clinical team have reviewed your consultation and full medical history. They will consider factors such as your body mass index (BMI), any weight-related health conditions, your medical history, current medicines and whether Mounjaro may be a suitable option for you.

If prescribed, Mounjaro forms one part of a wider weight management plan that also includes healthy lifestyle changes, regular exercise and ongoing support throughout your weight loss journey.

Clinical Trial Results

Up to 22.5%

In clinical studies involving adults with obesity or overweight, participants receiving the highest licensed dose of tirzepatide alongside reduced-calorie eating plans and increased physical activity achieved an average weight reduction of up to approximately 22.5% after 72 weeks. Individual results varied, and how much weight someone loses depends in part on their starting body weight.

In clinical trials, 91% of users lost at least 5% of their body weight.

These studies demonstrated that combining medication with long-term lifestyle changes can support weight management for some eligible adults under appropriate medical supervision.

Research published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism reported that participants receiving tirzepatide achieved average weight loss of up to 20.9% after 72 weeks, alongside lifestyle intervention. Across studies, results ranged from 16.5% to 22.4% over 72 weeks.

What Is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is classified as a group of drugs that influence the hormones that control appetite and blood sugar levels. The active substance of the drug, namely tirzepatide, affects the activation of the receptors of GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1).

Both of these hormones are released after having eaten something. By influencing both pathways, tirzepatide regulates appetite and food consumption. Unlike some of the other weight loss injections, it doesn't have an effect in the same manner as others and its efficacy is measured in terms of the weight loss percentage compared to the initial weight. For instance, Mounjaro can:

• Cause faster satiety during mealtime.
• Increase the feeling of fullness after eating.
• Decrease the sensation of hunger between meals.
• Reduce the process of emptying the stomach, thus making one feel fuller.
• Stabilise the level of blood sugar after eating.

Unlike the weight management programs that involve solely caloric intake restriction, Mounjaro is combined with the natural signals of the hormones. Nevertheless, it's still important to maintain proper eating and exercise routines while using the medication.

It's possible to purchase Mounjaro in the UK via prescriptions only.

Mounjaro Compared with Other Prescription Weight Management Medicines

The most appropriate treatment depends on your individual circumstances. A healthcare professional will consider your health history, current medicines, treatment goals and eligibility before recommending any prescription weight loss medication. When comparing different weight loss medications, it is also important to note that some products may share the same active ingredient, while Mounjaro does not work in exactly the same way as some other weight loss injections because it acts on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors.

Your Treatment Pathway with Mounjaro

It is important to begin using any weight loss drug through thoughtful planning with proper clinical advice via a weight loss program. The comparison of weight loss drugs allows you to select the best weight loss drug according to your own particular situation. Mounjaro is slowly introduced to allow your body time to adjust to the drug and to decrease the chance of developing certain side effects.

Medicines in this comparison should not be assumed to have the same active ingredient.

In trials, around 84% of Wegovy users lost more than 5% of body weight, while around 60% of Ozempic users achieved the same threshold.

Before You Start

Prior to being prescribed Mounjaro, you will undergo an online medical consultation through our medically-based weight management program. The medical practitioner or independent pharmacist prescriber can get access to key details concerning your health status, and Mounjaro will be among the treatment modalities used under the care program.

You may be asked about:

• Your height and weight.
• Your Body Mass Index (BMI).
• Any weight related health problems.
• Previous attempts at weight management.
• Current medicines.
• Allergies.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding status.
• Personal and family medical history.
• Whether you have high blood pressure.

This assessment helps determine whether Mounjaro may be suitable and safe for you. If additional information is needed, you may be contacted before a prescribing decision is made.

Starting Treatment

If prescribed, treatment usually begins with the lowest available dose.

Starting at a lower dose allows your body time to adapt. Many of the most commonly reported side effects, particularly those affecting the stomach and digestive system, are more likely to occur during the early weeks of treatment or after a dose increase.

The starting dose is typically 2.5 mg and is not intended to produce the maximum treatment effect. Instead, it provides a gradual introduction before moving to higher maintenance doses if appropriate.

Treatment is generally considered for eligible patients with a BMI over 30, or over 27 with relevant conditions.

Gradual Dose Escalation

The dose of the drug can be increased periodically if you tolerate the medication well and your doctor feels that increasing the dosage is necessary. Doses need to be increased according to the schedule of prescription. If the dose is increased more rapidly than prescribed, it might cause more side effects, but not give any extra benefit even in the case of higher maximum doses being used.

Everyone doesn't necessarily need the maximum dose. It all depends on your reaction and tolerance of the drug and your own health care requirements, and the doses can be gradually increased up to 15 mg.

Ongoing Reviews

Weight management is an ongoing process rather than a short-term course of treatment.

During treatment, your progress may be reviewed periodically. These reviews allow your healthcare professional to consider:

• How you are responding to treatment.
• Whether side effects are manageable.
• Whether dose adjustments are appropriate.
• Your progress with healthy lifestyle changes.
• Whether continuing treatment remains suitable.

Treatment decisions are always based on your individual circumstances rather than a fixed timetable.

If You Are Changing from Another Weight Management Medicine

In some instances, individuals would ask about switching to a different medication like Wegovy or Saxenda.

The transition from one medication to another can only be done after undergoing a clinical evaluation because all medications have their mechanism of action and different dosage frequency.

One is not supposed to switch medications without consulting their physician.

An Overview of Mounjaro

Mounjaro has been developed to support weight management in eligible adults when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

Rather than simply reducing calorie intake through willpower alone, the medicine works by influencing natural hormone pathways involved in appetite regulation.

Many people living with obesity describe persistent hunger, frequent food cravings or difficulty feeling satisfied after meals. These experiences are influenced by complex biological systems, not simply personal choice.

Tirzepatide works by activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, helping your body respond to food in a way that may support reduced appetite and increased feelings of fullness.

Although the medicine can play an important role for some patients, it is only one part of successful weight management.

Long-term improvements are more likely when treatment is combined with sustainable lifestyle habits, realistic expectations and regular clinical review.

What You Can Realistically Expect

Every person's experience with Mounjaro is different.

Some people notice changes in appetite during the first few weeks of treatment, while others may find these changes develop more gradually as their dose increases.

Weight loss does not occur at the same rate for everyone.

Factors that may influence your progress include:

• Your starting weight.
• Your eating habits.
• Physical activity levels.
• Sleep quality.
• Other medical conditions.
• Medicines you are taking.
• How consistently treatment is used.

Some people lose weight steadily over time, while others may experience periods where weight changes more slowly.

Your healthcare professional will encourage you to focus on long-term progress rather than expecting rapid results.

Why Lifestyle Changes Still Matter

Prescription medicines can support weight management for some people, but they are designed to work alongside healthier daily habits rather than replace them.

Building sustainable routines may help you maintain progress over the longer term, whether or not you continue treatment in the future.

Healthy Eating

There is no single diet that suits everyone.

Many people benefit from eating regular, balanced meals that include vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, lean sources of protein and healthy fats.

Choosing foods that help you feel satisfied while providing good nutrition may make it easier to maintain healthy eating patterns.

It is generally recommended to avoid skipping meals or following highly restrictive diets unless advised by a healthcare professional.

Physical Activity

Regular movement supports overall health as well as weight management.

This does not necessarily mean intense exercise.

Walking, cycling, swimming, gardening or other enjoyable activities can all contribute towards a more active lifestyle.

Starting gradually and building activity over time is often more realistic than making sudden large changes.

Sleep

Poor sleep may influence appetite, food choices and energy levels.

Developing consistent sleep routines may support overall wellbeing and make healthy lifestyle habits easier to maintain.

Hydration

Drinking enough water throughout the day supports normal body functions and may also help some people distinguish between hunger and thirst.

Hydration is particularly important if you experience gastrointestinal side effects such as vomiting or diarrhoea.

Building Long-Term Habits

Sustainable weight management is usually based on small, consistent changes rather than short-term extremes.

Mounjaro is not known to be addictive, but healthy routines still matter to help avoid putting weight back on over time.

Your healthcare team may encourage you to set realistic goals, monitor your progress and develop habits that you feel able to continue over time.

For many people, these gradual changes become just as important as the medicine itself in supporting long-term health.

Directions for Use

Mounjaro is supplied as a pre-filled injection pen and is usually administered once each week. Your prescribing healthcare professional will explain how to use the pen safely before you begin treatment. You should always follow the instructions provided with your medicine and any advice given by your prescriber.

When to Take Mounjaro

Mounjaro is taken once every seven days.

You can choose a day of the week that fits your routine and aim to use your injection on the same day each week. Keeping to a regular schedule may make it easier to remember your treatment.

The injection can be taken at any time of day and can be administered with or without food. NHS guidance recommends using tirzepatide alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to support long-term weight management.

How to Use the Injection

Mounjaro is injected just under the skin (a subcutaneous injection).

Common injection sites include:

• The abdomen (stomach area).
• The front of the thigh.
• The upper arm, if someone else is helping with the injection.

Rotating your injection site each week may help reduce the chance of skin irritation.

Before using your pen, check that:

• The medicine is within its expiry date.
• The pen appears undamaged.
• The medicine looks as expected according to the manufacturer's instructions.

If you are unsure how to use the pen, do not administer the injection until you have received appropriate guidance from your healthcare provider.

If You Miss a Dose

In case of a missed dose, it is important to adhere to the guidelines of the manufacturer as well as your prescriber's instructions on the administration of Mounjaro via subcutaneous injection.

In case of a missed dose, the treatment may be done as long as 96 hours have not elapsed, otherwise, skip it and go back to the normal treatment schedule.

Taking two consecutive doses for the skipped dose is discouraged, as well as using different injection sites regularly in order to avoid any irritation.

In case of confusion on the next step, consult your health care provider or pharmacist before giving yourself the injection.

Storage

Correct storage helps maintain the quality of your medicine.

Before first use, Mounjaro should generally be stored in a refrigerator according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Do not freeze the medicine. If the pen has been frozen, it should not be used.

Always keep the pen out of the sight and reach of children.

If you have questions about storing or transporting your medicine, particularly when travelling, your pharmacist can provide further advice.

Duration of Treatment

There is no standard treatment length that applies to everyone.

Some people may use Mounjaro for an extended period as part of their ongoing weight management plan, while others may stop treatment following clinical review.

Regular follow-up appointments allow your healthcare professional to assess whether continuing treatment remains appropriate based on your progress, overall health and treatment goals.

Why an Online Consultation Is Required

Prescription medicines should only be supplied after an appropriate clinical assessment.

An online consultation allows your healthcare professional to gather the information needed to determine whether Mounjaro may be suitable for you while helping to ensure that treatment is prescribed safely and responsibly.

Protecting Your Safety

Although Mounjaro may benefit some people, it is not appropriate for everyone.

Certain medical conditions, medicines or personal circumstances may affect whether this treatment is suitable.

Your consultation helps identify any factors that could increase the risk of side effects or make another treatment option more appropriate.

Assessing Eligibility

Your clinician will review information including:

• Your Body Mass Index (BMI).
• Any weight-related medical conditions.
• Previous weight management treatments.
• Current medicines.
• Medical history.
• Allergies.
• Pregnancy plans or breastfeeding.
• Relevant family medical history where appropriate.

This assessment helps ensure that prescribing decisions are based on your individual clinical circumstances.

Checking for Medicine Interactions

Some medicines may interact with Mounjaro or require additional monitoring.

Providing an accurate list of all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies and supplements helps your healthcare professional make an informed prescribing decision.

You should also tell your clinician if any of your medicines change while you are receiving treatment.

Ongoing Clinical Review

Weight management treatment should not be viewed as a one-time prescription.

Follow-up reviews provide an opportunity to discuss your progress, address any concerns, assess side effects and consider whether treatment continues to be appropriate.

This ongoing support forms an important part of safe prescribing.

Is Mounjaro Right for You?

Mounjaro may be considered for adults who meet the licensed prescribing criteria and who have completed an appropriate medical assessment.

Eligibility depends on your individual circumstances rather than on weight alone.

Your healthcare professional will consider whether the expected benefits of treatment outweigh any potential risks.

Mounjaro May Be Suitable If You:

• Meet the relevant prescribing criteria.
• Are living with overweight or obesity according to current clinical guidance.
• Are prepared to combine treatment with healthier eating habits and increased physical activity.
• Understand how to use the injection correctly.
• Are willing to attend follow-up reviews if required.

Being eligible does not automatically mean that Mounjaro will be prescribed. Every consultation is assessed individually.

Mounjaro May Not Be Suitable If You:

Treatment may not be appropriate for everyone.

Depending on your individual circumstances, Mounjaro may not be suitable if you:

• Are pregnant.
• Are planning a pregnancy.
• Are breastfeeding.
• Have certain medical conditions where treatment is not recommended.
• Have experienced an allergic reaction to tirzepatide or any ingredient in the medicine.
• Have other clinical factors that require an alternative treatment approach.

Your healthcare professional will discuss any concerns identified during your assessment.

Possible Side Effects

Like all prescription medicines, Mounjaro can cause side effects, although not everybody experiences them.

Many side effects are mild or moderate and often improve as your body becomes accustomed to treatment. However, some side effects can be more serious and require prompt medical attention.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects of Mounjaro affect the digestive system, though some people may also notice hair loss.

These may include:

• Nausea.
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhoea.
• Constipation.
• Stomach discomfort.
• Reduced appetite.
• Indigestion.
• Bloating.

These symptoms are often more noticeable when treatment begins or after a dose increase.

Eating smaller meals, avoiding large high-fat meals and maintaining good hydration may help some people manage mild digestive symptoms. If side effects persist or become troublesome, you should seek advice from your healthcare professional.

Less Common Side Effects

Some people may also experience:

• Dizziness.
• Tiredness.
• Injection site reactions.
• Burping.
• Heartburn.
• Changes in bowel habits.

If any side effect becomes severe or does not improve, medical advice should be sought.

Serious Side Effects

Although uncommon, serious side effects can occur.

You should seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms that could suggest a serious allergic reaction, severe abdominal pain that does not improve, or any other symptoms that cause significant concern.

Your patient information leaflet explains the recognised serious side effects in more detail. You should read this carefully before starting treatment and keep it for future reference.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience a suspected side effect, you should inform your healthcare professional or pharmacist.

Reporting suspected side effects also helps healthcare authorities continue to monitor the safety of medicines after they become available for wider use.

Who Can Benefit?

Mounjaro is meant for adults who fit into the licensing guidelines for weight management and who have undergone a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Adults with overweight or obesity issues have different biological, environmental, and lifestyle challenges that might make weight management more difficult. For some eligible adults, weight-loss medication such as Mounjaro could help when diet and physical exercise alone have proven inadequate for weight loss.

In a process involving the assessment of a person's suitability for taking Mounjaro, the drug might be considered for individuals who:

• Have the appropriate BMI in accordance with existing prescribing guidelines.
• May have some health issues related to weight that would be considered in the evaluation.
• Have an intention to change their lifestyle and habits long-term.
• Recognise that the use of the medicine is part of a broader weight management strategy.
• Are ready to take the drug according to the recommended dosage and go for subsequent evaluations.

Prescribing decisions are made individually. Although two individuals may be of similar body weights, their different medical histories and health status could be a factor in deciding on the use of the drug.

Potential Health Benefits

When prescribed appropriately and used alongside healthy lifestyle changes, Mounjaro may support weight management in eligible adults.

The potential benefits experienced will vary between individuals and should be considered within the context of an overall healthcare plan.

Possible benefits may include:

Supporting Weight Loss

Clinical studies have shown that tirzepatide may help some eligible adults achieve meaningful weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

The amount of weight lost varies considerably from person to person. Factors such as adherence to treatment, dietary habits, physical activity, underlying medical conditions and treatment duration may all influence outcomes.

Helping to Manage Appetite

Many people report that they feel fuller after meals and experience reduced hunger while taking Mounjaro.

This change in appetite may make it easier for some individuals to maintain healthier eating habits, although experiences differ between patients.

Encouraging Long-Term Lifestyle Changes

For some people, reduced hunger may create an opportunity to establish healthier routines that can continue alongside ongoing treatment.

Developing balanced eating habits, increasing physical activity and improving sleep patterns remain important parts of successful long-term weight management.

Supporting Overall Health Goals

Achieving and maintaining a healthier weight may contribute to improvements in overall health for some individuals. However, the extent of these changes depends on many factors, including existing medical conditions and broader lifestyle habits.

Your healthcare professional will discuss realistic expectations based on your individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Mounjaro work?

Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which acts on GIP and GLP-1 receptors involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. It may help some people feel fuller for longer, reduce hunger and support weight management when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

When will Mounjaro start working?

Some people notice changes in appetite within the first few weeks, while others experience more gradual effects as their dose increases. Weight loss varies between individuals, and there is no set timeframe that applies to everyone.

Do I need to follow a diet while taking Mounjaro?

Yes. Mounjaro is intended to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Healthy lifestyle habits remain an important part of treatment.

Can I drink alcohol during treatment?

Alcohol is not specifically prohibited for everyone taking Mounjaro. However, alcohol may affect appetite, calorie intake and overall health. If you have questions about alcohol and your treatment, speak with your healthcare professional.

Can I exercise while using Mounjaro?

Yes, provided it is appropriate for your health and fitness level. Regular physical activity forms an important part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

What should I do if I miss an injection?

Follow the instructions provided with your medicine and any advice from your healthcare professional. Do not administer an extra dose to make up for a missed injection.

Can I stop taking Mounjaro at any time?

You should discuss stopping treatment with your healthcare professional before making any changes. They can advise you on the most appropriate approach based on your progress and individual circumstances.

Can I travel with Mounjaro?

Yes. If you are travelling, ensure that your medicine is stored according to the manufacturer's recommendations. If you are travelling abroad, plan ahead and carry any documentation that may be required.

Can I take Mounjaro with other medicines?

Some medicines may interact with Mounjaro or require additional monitoring. Always tell your healthcare professional about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies and supplements that you take.

Who should avoid Mounjaro?

Mounjaro may not be suitable for everyone. It may not be appropriate in certain medical circumstances, including during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or for people with specific health conditions. A clinical assessment is required before treatment can be prescribed.

Can I buy Mounjaro online?

Mounjaro is a prescription-only medicine in the United Kingdom. It should only be supplied following an appropriate medical assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.

How long will I need to take Mounjaro?

The duration of treatment varies between individuals. Your healthcare professional will review your progress regularly and advise whether continuing treatment remains appropriate.

How is Mounjaro supplied?

Mounjaro is supplied as a pre-filled injection pen for once-weekly administration. Your prescriber or pharmacist will provide guidance on its correct use.

What happens during the online consultation?

You will complete a medical questionnaire covering your weight, medical history, current medicines and other relevant health information. A qualified healthcare professional will review your responses before deciding whether Mounjaro is appropriate for you.

Will Mounjaro work for everyone?

No. Individual responses vary, and not everyone will experience the same outcomes. Treatment effectiveness depends on many factors, including adherence to the prescribed regimen and ongoing lifestyle changes.

Why Choose NuMe for Your Weight Management Journey?

The mission of NuMe is to deliver safe, evidence-based treatment that promotes informed decisions.

If you are looking into prescription weight management medication, all consultations will be evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional before any prescribing decision is being made. This way, we strive to make sure that treatment is right for you.

In case you have been prescribed Mounjaro, you will get comprehensive information on how to take your medicine safely, what you can expect from the treatment, and when it is necessary to contact your doctor.

It is seldom that one medicine will solve weight problems. It is the right combination of clinical treatment, lifestyle changes and follow-ups that work. Whether Mounjaro works for you or not will depend on your state of health, treatment objectives and results of your clinical assessment.

NuMe is here to assist you in making an informed decision regarding your treatment.