March 25, 2025

Medically Reviewed by By Girish Desai, the Chief Pharmacist at Landys Chemist since 1982.

Written by Rhysa Phommachanh Head of Digital Marketing

How Does Mounjaro Work For Weight Loss?

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a medication primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the action of two hormones, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide), which help regulate blood sugar levels and control appetite. Recently, Mounjaro has been gaining attention for its potential to assist with weight loss, especially in individuals with obesity or those who are overweight. From this, there has also been a rise in interest for natural GLP-1 activating supplements to support weight loss too.

Approved by the FDA for diabetes treatment, Mounjaro has shown promising results in clinical trials for weight reduction. Though primarily prescribed for diabetes, Mounjaro is being explored for its potential use as a weight loss treatment in select patients.

How Does Mounjaro Help with Weight Loss?

Mounjaro helps with weight loss through several mechanisms:

how does mounjaro work weight loss

Appetite Regulation

One of the key ways Mounjaro assists with weight loss is by regulating appetite. According to a study published in 2023 "Tirzepatide significantly reduced hunger, and patients reported feeling full after smaller meals." This is primarily due to the action of GLP-1 and GIP, which slow gastric emptying and enhance satiety signals to the brain, making it easier for individuals to eat less and feel satisfied.

Increased Insulin Sensitivity

In addition to helping manage blood sugar levels, Mounjaro improves insulin sensitivity, which helps the body use glucose more effectively. This can help in reducing the likelihood of excess energy being stored as fat. As noted in a New England Journal of Medicine 2022 study, "Tirzepatide improved insulin sensitivity and led to reductions in both fasting blood glucose and weight." This is especially beneficial for those with insulin resistance, a common issue in obesity.

Fat Reduction

Unlike many weight loss treatments, Mounjaro targets fat loss rather than water weight or muscle mass. A 2024 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reported that "patients who took tirzepatide lost a significant amount of visceral fat, which is linked to metabolic health improvements." This makes Mounjaro a unique option for those looking for long-term fat reduction.

Impact on Hormones

Mounjaro also influences several hormones related to appetite and metabolism. For example, it reduces the secretion of ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates hunger, while increasing the production of hormones that promote fullness, such as GLP-1. This dual effect helps to reduce overeating, supporting weight loss in the long term.

Is Mounjaro Made for Weight Loss?

Mounjaro was initially developed for type 2 diabetes but was approved for weight loss in 2023 in both the U.S. and the UK. In the U.S., the FDA approved it for weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight, while the UK’s MHRA and NICE approved its use within the NHS for those with a BMI of 35 or higher and weight-related health issues. IHowever,it iis mainly prescribed for type 2 diabetes patients managing weight as part of a broader treatment plan.

Does Mounjaro Help Everyone Lose Weight?

Mounjaro can be effective for many individuals, particularly those who are obese or have type 2 diabetes. However, the results vary from person to person. The clinical trial results, as discussed in JAMA, show that "while many participants experienced significant weight loss, individual results may depend on factors such as diet, exercise, and underlying health conditions."

Panasha Desai, Pharmacist at Landys Chemist, adds, "Mounjaro is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It works best for those who have a combination of factors like insulin resistance or obesity."

How Long Does Mounjaro Take To Work?

The timeline for weight loss with Mounjaro depends on individual factors, but many people start noticing changes in a few weeks. Clinical trials have shown that most participants saw a reduction in body weight within 12 weeks. According to The Lancet, "Significant weight loss of 10-15% was observed within 6 months in the majority of patients on tirzepatide."

Is Mounjaro a Safe Option for Weight Loss?

Mounjaro is considered safe for use under medical supervision. Clinical studies have reported that side effects are generally mild and include nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort. However, these side effects often diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

The NHS guidelines suggest that Mounjaro should only be used for weight loss in individuals with type 2 diabetes or those who meet specific criteria, such as having a BMI of 30 or higher. It is not recommended for use in individuals without obesity or metabolic conditions.

Do We Recommend Mounjaro for Weight Loss?

At Landys Chemist, Mounjaro is not recommended for use in individuals without obesity or metabolic conditions. ITt is crucial to remember that Mounjaro should not be used as a standalone solution. Weight loss should always be approached in a holistic manner, combining medication with dietary changes, exercise, and ongoing medical support.

As Panasha Desai states, "Mounjaro may be effective for weight loss in some patients, but it should be used as part of a broader treatment strategy, not as a quick fix."

For more detailed information on Mounjaro, you can refer to NHS guidelines on diabetes treatments.

Sources:

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any supplements, treatments, or remedies. Ensure a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle before considering supplements. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet.