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Everything You Need to Know About Mounjaro for Weight Loss

Written by Dr. Salim Olabi | Medically reviewed by Editorial Team
Last updated on: September 20, 2024

mounjaro injection for weight loss

What is Mounjaro Injection?

Mounjaro is an injectable medication initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes, but it has quickly gained recognition for its weight loss benefits. This medication mimics two key hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, which play critical roles in controlling blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion. By slowing digestion, reducing hunger, and increasing feelings of fullness, Mounjaro helps lower caloric intake, making it an effective option for those seeking weight loss. Clinical trials have shown that patients experienced significant weight reductions, positioning Mounjaro as a promising treatment for obesity, now available at SKIN111 Clinic.

How does Mounjaro work?

Mounjaro works by mimicking two natural hormones, GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones help regulate blood sugar and appetite while also influencing digestion. Here’s how it functions in the body:

  • Promotes insulin release: It boosts insulin production in response to elevated blood sugar, lowering glucose levels.
  • Lowers glucagon: Mounjaro reduces glucagon production, decreasing the liver's release of glucose, especially after meals.
  • Delays digestion: It slows the passage of food through the stomach and intestines, preventing rapid glucose absorption and post-meal blood sugar spikes.
  • Decreases appetite: Mounjaro affects areas of the brain responsible for appetite regulation, helping reduce food intake and support weight loss.

These combined effects help to manage both blood sugar and weight, making Mounjaro a promising solution for diabetes and obesity.

How does Mounjaro help with weight loss?

Mounjaro promotes weight loss by regulating appetite and boosting satiety. Here’s how it works:

  • Appetite suppression: Mounjaro reduces hunger by acting on brain regions that control food intake.
  • Increased fullness: It helps you feel full faster, making it easier to eat smaller portions without feeling deprived.
  • Slower digestion: By delaying stomach emptying, Mounjaro extends feelings of fullness, curbing the urge to snack.
  • Higher caloric burn: Mounjaro may increase overall energy expenditure, which can further support weight loss.

Clinical studies indicate that patients can lose up to 20% of their body weight while on Mounjaro, especially when combined with treatments like Venus Bliss: Non-invasive fat reduction treatment that uses laser lipolysis to eliminate fat cells effectively and TruSculpt ID: uses radiofrequency energy to target and permanently destroy fat cells, providing a non-invasive fat reduction solution at SKIN111 Clinic for enhanced fat loss and body contouring.

Is Mounjaro FDA-approved for weight loss?

Mounjaro has not yet been approved by the FDA specifically for weight loss. It is currently approved for managing blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. However, given the impressive weight loss outcomes seen in trials, Mounjaro is undergoing further research to assess its long-term use for obesity management.

Key Considerations Before Using Mounjaro for Weight Loss

Before considering Mounjaro, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, particularly if you do not have diabetes. At SKIN111 Clinic, our DHA-certified doctors will guide you through whether Mounjaro is the right fit for your weight loss journey. Here’s what to know:

1. Medical evaluation: Mounjaro impacts insulin levels and digestion, so a thorough medical assessment is crucial, especially for people with a history of thyroid cancer or pancreatitis.

2. Side effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. More serious risks include hypoglycemia (when used with other diabetes medications) and thyroid issues.

3. Individual results: Clinical studies show some users lose up to 20% of their body weight, but results vary. Best results occur when paired with healthy eating and exercise.

4. Method of administration: Mounjaro is a weekly injection. Patients need to be comfortable with self-administration or clinic visits for treatment.

5. Lifestyle changes: Combining Mounjaro with Venus Bliss, TruSculpt ID, and other body contouring treatments at SKIN111 ensures enhanced results for a leaner, healthier physique.

How is Mounjaro administered?

Mounjaro is a weekly subcutaneous injection. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Dosage: Begin with a low dose of 5 mg per week, with potential adjustments based on response and your healthcare provider’s guidance.

2. Injection sites: Inject Mounjaro into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotating sites helps avoid irritation.

3. Missed dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within four days. After that, skip the dose and stick to your regular schedule.

4. Storage: Store Mounjaro in the refrigerator, though it can remain at room temperature for a short period.

Usual Dosage for Weight Loss

The typical starting dose for Mounjaro is 5 mg once a week. After four weeks, your doctor may increase the dose to 7.5 mg weekly based on how well your body tolerates the medication. Dosages may increase to 10 mg, or even 15 mg depending on the individual. Always consult with your doctor before adjusting doses.

Best injection sites

The best places to inject Mounjaro are the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Here’s how to ensure effective injections:

1. Abdomen: Inject around the navel, avoiding the 2-inch area immediately surrounding it.

2. Thigh: Use the outer thigh for injections.

3. Upper arm: Inject into the back of the upper arm.

Rotate injection sites regularly to avoid irritation and always clean the area with an alcohol swab beforehand.

How often should Mounjaro be used?

Mounjaro is administered once a week. Sticking to a consistent weekly schedule is important for regulating blood sugar and ensuring steady weight loss results.

Expected weight loss with Mounjaro

In clinical trials, people using Mounjaro lost between 10% and 20% of their body weight, depending on their dosage and the length of treatment. Factors such as starting weight, adherence to the treatment, and lifestyle changes like diet and exercise also impact results.

Pros and cons of Mounjaro

Pros:

1. Effective blood sugar control: Mounjaro helps manage type 2 diabetes while also aiding weight loss.

2. Substantial weight loss: Clinical trials show significant weight loss, especially at higher doses.

3. Reduced appetite: Helps reduce cravings and promotes satiety.

4. Convenient weekly dosing: One injection per week is easier to manage than daily medications.

5. Weight loss results at SKIN111: Combine Mounjaro with other treatments like TruSculpt and Venus Bliss for enhanced body sculpting.

Cons:

1. Not FDA-approved for weight loss: Although effective for weight loss, it’s currently only approved for diabetes.

2. Side effects: Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Requires injection: Weekly injections may be inconvenient for some people.

Side effects of Mounjaro

Most side effects of Mounjaro are mild and related to digestion. The most common include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation

It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider at SKIN111 if you experience any severe or persistent side effects.

Long-term use of Mounjaro

Mounjaro is often used for long-term weight management to maintain results. Regular evaluations by healthcare providers ensure the treatment continues to be effective and safe for you.

Conclusion

Mounjaro injection offers a groundbreaking approach to weight loss, originally designed for managing type 2 diabetes. When paired with a balanced diet, exercise, and advanced body contouring treatments at SKIN111, Mounjaro has shown remarkable potential for sustainable weight loss. While the medication offers great promise, it’s crucial to weigh its benefits against possible side effects and consider the ongoing costs. For the best outcomes, Mounjaro should be used under medical supervision to ensure it aligns with your health goals.

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