Mounjaro 2.5mg is a highly effective medication designed to aid weight loss and manage blood sugar levels in adults with obesity or type 2 diabetes. Containing the active ingredient tirzepatide, Mounjaro 2.5mg works by activating GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which regulate appetite and increase feelings of fullness. Administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, Mounjaro 2.5mg is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
If you are starting your weight loss journey with Mounjaro, then this is the first dose you will have to take. You start with the Mounjaro 2.5mg weight loss injection to gently allow your body to get used to Mounjaro to avoid side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
You can buy the Mounjaro 2.5mg weight loss injection online today by simply completing an online health questionnaire. This will determine if Mounjaro 2.5mg is safe for you to take.
What is Mounjaro 2.5mg?
Mounjaro is a weight loss injection that is available as a pre-filled pen for once-weekly injections.
Mounjaro 2.5mg is the starting dose that you must start with when beginning a weight-loss program with Mounjaro. You have to stay on Mounjaro 2.5mg for at least four weeks. This will allow your body to get accustomed to the side effects.
Mounjaro is the brand name for the active drug, tirzepatide and it is the UK-licensed version of the US-approved weight loss injection, Zepbound.
Mounjaro is the latest in weight-loss injections and was licensed by the UK’s regulatory authority, the MHRA 2023 in November 2023. The MHRA approved Mounjaro for weight loss and weight management in adults with obesity (BMI 30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI 27–30 kg/m²) with weight-related conditions.
How does Mounjaro 2.5mg work?
Mounjaro 2.5mg, like all the other strengths of Mounjaro contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. It works by mimicking two natural gut hormones—glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones are known as incretins and by having two, Mounjaro is known as “twincretin”.</p?
Incretins increase insulin release from the pancreas when there is food in the gut, and so are useful to treat diabetes. However, the incretins, such as the GLP-1 and GIP also aid weight loss by:
Mounjaro 2.5mg is not as effective in causing weight-loss compared to the higher strengths, such as Mounjaro 15mg. But Mounjaro 2.5mg is probablythe most important strength of all the Mounjaro injections, since the lower dose allows your body to get used to Mounjaro.
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Buy Mounjaro 2.5mg weight loss injection online
If you are starting your weight loss journey with Mounjaro, then this is the first dose you will have to take. You start with the Mounjaro 2.5mg weight loss injection to gently allow your body to get used to Mounjaro to avoid side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
You can buy the Mounjaro 2.5mg weight loss injection online today by simply completing an online health questionnaire. This will determine if Mounjaro 2.5mg is safe for you to take.
What is Mounjaro 2.5mg?
Mounjaro is a weight loss injection that is available as a pre-filled pen for once-weekly injections.
Mounjaro 2.5mg is the starting dose that you must start with when beginning a weight-loss program with Mounjaro. You have to stay on Mounjaro 2.5mg for at least four weeks. This will allow your body to get accustomed to the side effects.
Mounjaro is the brand name for the active drug, tirzepatide and it is the UK-licensed version of the US-approved weight loss injection, Zepbound.
Mounjaro is the latest in weight-loss injections and was licensed by the UK’s regulatory authority, the MHRA 2023 in November 2023. The MHRA approved Mounjaro for weight loss and weight management in adults with obesity (BMI 30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI 27–30 kg/m²) with weight-related conditions.
How does Mounjaro 2.5mg work?
Mounjaro 2.5mg, like all the other strengths of Mounjaro contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. It works by mimicking two natural gut hormones—glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones are known as incretins and by having two, Mounjaro is known as “twincretin”.</p?
Incretins increase insulin release from the pancreas when there is food in the gut, and so are useful to treat diabetes. However, the incretins, such as the GLP-1 and GIP also aid weight loss by:
Mounjaro 2.5mg is not as effective in causing weight-loss compared to the higher strengths, such as Mounjaro 15mg. But Mounjaro 2.5mg is probablythe most important strength of all the Mounjaro injections, since the lower dose allows your body to get used to Mounjaro.
Studies reveal that the highest maintenance dose of Mounjaro, 15mg per week, can support weight loss of up to 22.5% of a person’s starting body weight.
Summary of total weight loss after 72 weeks with Mounjaro
5 mg Tirzepatide: 16.4 kg (36.1 lbs)
10 mg Tirzepatide: 22.4 kg (49.4 lbs)
15 mg Tirzepatide: 23.8 kg (52.5 lbs)
Placebo: 2.6 kg (5.7 lbs)
What is the active ingredient in Mounjaro 2.5mg injection?
The active ingredient in Mounjaro 2.5mg injection is Tirzepatide 2.5mg.
Mounjaro or tirzepatide, mimicks the two natural incretins, glucogen-like peptide (GLP-1) and glusose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP).
Since it combines the effects of both GLP-1 and GIP, it is called a “twincretin”.
GLP-1 and GIP cause the release of insulin when food is present in the gastrointestinal tract and promotes weight loss by promoting feelings of satiety or fullness which reduces appetite.
What is Mounajro 2.5mg injection used for?
Mounjaro, contains the active ingredient, tirzepatide, is a newly approved weekly weight loss injection, authorised by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in November 2023.
It is licensed for adults with obesity (BMI ? 30) or those who are overweight (BMI 27–30) with weight-related health conditions (MHRA 2023).
Tirzepatide, Mounjaro's active ingredient, supports weight loss by regulating appetite. It helps you feel fuller for longer, reduces hunger, and minimises food cravings (MHRA 2023).
Mounjaro is also used along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity in adults who:
Have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obesity), or
Have a BMI between 27 kg/m² and 30 kg/m² (overweight) and have weight-related health problems such as: prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, abnormal blood fat levels, obstructive sleep apnea, or a history of heart attack, stroke, or blood vessel problems).
BMI (Body Mass Index) measures your weight in relation to your height.
Mounjaro 2.5mg contains tirzepatide, an active ingredient that acts as a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist. Both GLP-1 and GIP are incretin hormones that help regulate insulin secretion, manage blood sugar levels, and reduce appetite. Since Mounjaro combines both of these incretins, it is referred to as a “twincretin.”
What is an incretin?
Both Mounjaro and Wegovy work by mimicking the actions of substances in the body called incretins. Discovered by researchers in the early 1970s, incretins are hormones in the human body that stimulate insulin release from beta cells in the pancreas.
Produced in the intestines, incretins play a crucial role in regulating blood sugar by increasing insulin levels in response to food intake. This happens because the nutrients from food trigger the release of incretin hormones, which then stimulate the pancreas to produce insulin .
The two main incretins are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) These hormones are released by specialized cells in the intestines called enteroendocrine cells in response to food. They play an essential role in regulating metabolism after meals.
By mimicking these hormones, Mounjaro works in two ways: it helps lower blood glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and aids in weight loss by curbing hunger and enhancing feelings of fullness.
The table below compares the effects of the two incretins, GLP-1 and GIP.
Comparison of GLP-1 and GIP medicalmojo.co.uk
How do you use Mounjaro 2.5mg injection?
When starting Mounjaro for weight-loss, you always have to start with the Mounjaro 2.5mg dose.
The Mounjaro 2.5mg is injected via a subcutaneous injection once a week. For a more in depth guide on how to inject Mounjaro, please read our blog, "How to inject Mounjaro".
Mounjaro injection sites
When using Mounjaro, it’s essential to choose the proper injection site. The medication is injected just under the skin (subcutaneously) in one of the following areas:
Stomach (abdomen)
Upper thigh
Upper arm (assistance may be needed for this site)
You can inject Mounjaro in the same general area each week but should rotate the specific injection spot within that area. Alternatively, you can switch between different locations each week. For example, you could use your abdomen in week 1, upper thigh in week 2, and upper arm in week 3, and continue to rotate.
As you get more familiar with the process, you will find which site works best for you.
How to inject Mounjaro
When administering Mounjaro, you can inject it into your abdomen or upper thighs. You can inject into the upper arms only if someone is available to help with the injection.
To ensure proper site rotation, divide the injection area into two sections on each side of your body (refer to the diagram for guidance). Be sure to alternate injection sites each week and avoid using the same area for at least four weeks.
For abdominal injections, always maintain a distance of at least 5 cm from your belly button. Also, ensure that each injection is placed at least one finger-width away from the previous injection site.
Where to inject Mounjaro Medicalmojo.co.uk
Preparing for your Mounjaro 2.5mg injection
Before using Mounjaro 2.5mg, follow these simple steps to ensure proper preparation. Start by confirming that the Mounjaro 2.5mg pack contains the following:
A pre-filled injection pen with 4 weekly doses
A patient information leaflet
An instruction guide on how to use Mounjaro
Before your first injection of Mounjaro 2.5mg
Carefully read both the patient information leaflet and the instruction guide.
Choose a convenient day and time each week for your injections and stick to it.
If you’ve ordered from Medical Mojo, you will also receive 4mm needles to attach to the pen and a sharps box for safe needle disposal. These needles and the sharps bin are provided FREE with your order.
Consistency with your Mounjaro injections
Injecting Mounjaro on the same day each week is essential for maintaining a steady level of the medication in your body, ensuring its optimal effectiveness.
Mounjaro 2.5mg pre-injection steps
Wash your hands: Clean your hands thoroughly with warm, soapy water, then dry them.
Confirm the dosage: Check that the correct dose is indicated on the original packaging and ensure it is within its expiration date.
Inspect the pen and contents: Remove the pen from its box, check for any visible damage, remove the protective cap, and inspect the liquid in the dosage window. Ensure it is clear and free from debris or particles. If the solution looks frozen or cloudy, do not use it.
Prepare a new needle: Use a new, sealed needle. Make sure it is not unsealed, bent, or damaged.
How to inject Mounjaro 2.5mg: A step-by-step guide
The Mounjaro ‘KwikPen’ is a single-patient-use pen containing four fixed doses, with one dose injected each week. Each pen provides 4 weeks of treatment. Once all doses are used, the pen should be discarded.
Priming the Mounjaro 2.5mg pen
Clean the inner red seal: Use an alcohol swab to wipe it.
Select a new needle: Always use a fresh needle for each injection. Ensure it is not bent or damaged, and remove the paper tab from the outer needle shield.
Attach the needle: Twist the capped needle onto the pen and secure it. Remove the outer needle shield and set it aside for later use. Dispose of the inner needle shield in household waste.
Set the pen to prime position: Turn the dose knob until you hear two clicks and see the extended line in the dose window. Adjust as needed to align the knob with the dose indicator.
Remove air bubbles: Hold the pen upright with the needle pointing up. Gently tap the cartridge holder to move air bubbles to the top.
Prime the pen: Push the dose knob until it stops and slowly count to 5. The ‘0’ icon should appear in the dose window, and a small drop of medication should appear at the needle tip. If no medication comes out, repeat steps 4-6 up to two more times. If unsuccessful, change the needle and try again.
Mounjaro 2.5mg injection steps
Select an injection site: Choose your abdomen, upper thigh, or upper arm (if someone is assisting). No need to pinch the skin.
Set the dose: Turn the dose knob until the ‘1’ icon appears, indicating a 0.6ml dose.
Insert the needle and deliver the dose: Insert the needle into your skin at the chosen site, ensuring the dose counter is visible. Press the dose knob all the way in and count to 5 before removing the needle. Ensure the ‘0’ icon appears in the dose window.
Remove the needle: Pull the needle out. A small drop of medicine at the tip is normal and won’t affect the dose. If the ‘0’ icon doesn’t appear, reinsert the needle to complete the injection. Do not redial the dose.
After the injection
Dispose of the needle: Replace the outer needle shield and dispose of the used needle in a sharps bin.
Store the pen: Replace the pen cap and store it safely until your next dose.
By following these steps, you can safely and effectively administer your Mounjaro treatment. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Choosing when to administer Mounjaro
You can use your pen at any time of the day, with or without meals. Try to use it on the same day each week. To help you remember, you may want to mark the day on a calendar or use the “Instructions for Use” to tick off the day of the week when you inject your first dose.
If necessary, you can change the day of your weekly Mounjaro injection, as long as it has been at least 3 days since your last injection. After selecting a new dosing day, continue with once-a-week dosing on that new day.
Mounjaro dosing schedule and guidance
Before starting Mounjaro, it’s important to read the patient information leafletfor detailed instructions and advice.
Mounjaro dosing schedule
Starting dose
The initial dose is Mounajro 2.5mg once a week for the first four weeks. After this period, you will transition to Mounajro 5mg. This gradual increase helps your body adjust and reduces the risk of side effects, which are more common during the adjustment phase.
Why start with Mounjaro 2.5mg?
It is essential to begin with Mounjaro 2.5mg, even if you've used other weight loss injections. For example, transitioning directly from a high dose of Wegovy (which contains semaglutide) to a high dose of Mounjaro is not recommended because Mounjaro uses tirzepatide, which acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, unlike Wegovy’s GLP-1 only approach.
Starting with Mounjaro 2.5mg dose allows your body to adapt safely.
If you are switching from another medication and need guidance, contact us for a FREE consultation—our experienced prescribers will ensure a safe transition.
Side effects and appetite during week 1 on Mounjaro 2.5mg
During the first week, as your body adjusts to Mounjaro, you might experience mild gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, constipation, and diarrhoea. These effects are most common during the dose escalation phase.
For a more comprehensive look at Mounjaro side effects, please read our blog, "Mounjaro side effects".
Can I stay on a lower dose for longer than four weeks?
If you experience side effects after transitioning to a higher dose, you can stay on the lower dose for longer. If you’re unsure when to move to the next dose, reach out to us for a FREE consultation.
Mounjaro Dosing Overview
*You MUST start on Mounjaro 2.5mg, even if you've used other weight loss injections, to allow your body to adjust and minimize side effects.
Mounjaro 5mg, Mounjaro 10mg, and Mounjaro 15mg can be used as maintenance doses as long as you’re happy with your weight loss and side effects are tolerable.
Mounjaro dose progression
Typically, doses increase every 4 weeks. However, you may stay on a lower dose longer if:
You can increase your dose at any time, provided you’ve been on your current dose for at least 4 weeks.
The maximum dose is Mounjaro 15 mg. Exceeding this limit may cause serious side effects and health risks.
How to Know When It’s Time to Transition to a Maintenance Dose
As your dosage gradually increases, you should notice reduced appetite and weight loss. If the Mounjaro 2.5mg dose does not significantly affect your appetite, continue it for 4 weeks to minimize side effects.
If you're still experiencing side effects, you should remain on the lower dose for longer. Combine Mounjaro with a consistent exercise routine and a healthy diet for the best results.
Everyone’s response to Mounjaro varies, so your maintenance dose will depend on factors like how well you tolerate the medication and your overall health and goals. Common maintenance doses include:
Finding the right dose may require some trial and error. Our licensed healthcare professionals can help you determine the best dose for you. Contact us for a FREE Mounjaro weight-loss consultation.
Which Mounjaro maintenance dose results in the most weight loss?
The SURMOUNT 1 trial tested Mounjaro in non-diabetic individuals with obesity or those who are overweight with at least one weight-related health issue. The highest dose of Mounjaro 15 mg led to an average weight loss of 22.5% of body weight after 72 weeks, with nearly 90% of participants losing at least 5% of their body weight. In comparison, semaglutide (another GLP-1 medication) showed an average weight loss of 12.4%.
If you miss a dose and it’s been 4 days or less, inject as soon as you remember and continue your regular schedule.
If it’s been more than 4 days, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled.
Do not take two doses to make up for the missed one. Ensure there are at least 3 days between two doses.
By following the Mounjaro dosing schedule, you can safely and effectively achieve weight loss with Mounjaro. For more information, contact us for a FREE Mounjaro weight-loss consultation.
Who should not take Mounjaro 2.5mg injection?
Do not use Mounjaro KwikPen:
If you are allergic to tirzepatide or any other ingredients in this medicine, check the product information leaflet below.
Warnings and Precautions:
Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse before using Mounjaro if:
You have severe digestion problems or delayed stomach emptying (including severe gastroparesis).
You have ever had pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas causing severe, persistent stomach and back pain).
You have eye problems (such as diabetic retinopathy or macular edema).
You are using a sulfonylurea (another diabetes medicine) or insulin, as Mounjaro can cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Your doctor may need to adjust your doses of these medications to reduce this risk.
When starting treatment with Mounjaro, you might experience dehydration due to vomiting, nausea, and/or diarrhea, which can affect kidney function. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Contact your doctor if you have any concerns.
Children and Adolescents: This medicine should not be given to children and adolescents under 18 years of age as it has not been studied in this age group.
Pregnancy: This medicine should not be used during pregnancy as its effects on an unborn child are unknown. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to have a baby, consult your doctor before using this medicine. It is recommended to use contraception while using Mounjaro.
If you are a woman with obesity or overweight and using oral contraceptives, consider also using a barrier method (e.g., a condom) or switching to a non-oral contraceptive method for 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro and for 4 weeks after each dose increase.
Breast-feeding: It is unknown whether tirzepatide passes into breast milk. A risk to newborns/infants cannot be ruled out. If you are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed, consult your doctor before using this medicine. You and your doctor should decide whether to stop breast-feeding or delay using Mounjaro.
Driving and Using Machines: It is unlikely that this medicine will affect your ability to drive and use machines. However, if you use Mounjaro in combination with a sulfonylurea or insulin, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may occur, which can reduce your ability to concentrate. Avoid driving or using machines if you experience any signs of low blood sugar, such as headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, hunger, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat, and sweating. Refer to section 4 for more details. For information on the increased risk of low blood sugar, see section 2, ‘Warnings and Precautions.’ Consult your doctor for further information.
Mounjaro KwikPen Contains Sodium: This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per dose, essentially making it ‘sodium-free.’
Mounjaro KwikPen Contains Benzyl Alcohol: Each multiple-dose pre-filled pen contains 5.4 mg benzyl alcohol [E1519] in each 0.6 ml dose. Benzyl alcohol may cause allergic reactions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you have liver or kidney disease, as large amounts of benzyl alcohol can build up in your body and may cause side effects (called “metabolic acidosis”).
For a more detailed read, please read our blog, "Who should not take Mounjaro?".
What are the side effects with Mounjaro 2.5mg injection?
Like all medicines, this medication can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.
Mounjaro uncommon serious side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
Inflamed pancreas (acute pancreatitis): This can cause severe pain in the stomach and back that does not go away. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
Mounjaro rare serious side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):
Severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylactic reaction, angioedema): Seek immediate medical help and inform your doctor if you experience symptoms such as breathing problems, rapid swelling of the lips, tongue, and/or throat with difficulty swallowing, and a fast heartbeat.
Mounjaro and thyroid cancer
Initially there were fears about a potential link between Mounjaro and thyroid cancer, since in the animal studies, rodents developed such cancers. However, recent research had discovered that this phenomena only applies to rodents. Unlike rodents, humans and primates have very few or no GLP-1 receptors on their thyroid C cells,
A study published in the BMJ on April 10, 2024, offers reassurance regarding thyroid cancer risk. The research looked at whether GLP-1 receptor agonists, used for diabetes and weight loss, increase the risk of thyroid cancer.
The study, which followed over 145,000 people using GLP-1 medications, compared them to patients using other diabetes treatments. The results showed no significant increase in thyroid cancer risk over an average of nearly 4 years. In the GLP-1 group, thyroid cancer occurred at a rate of just 1.33 cases per 10,000 people each year.and not humans, and it has agreed by the experts that Mounjaro does not cause medullary thyroid cancer.
To learn more, read our blof, "Does Mounjaro cause thyroid cancer?"
Other Mounjaro side effects
Very common Mounjaro side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when tirzepatide is used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes with medicines that contain a sulfonylurea and/or insulin: If you are using a sulfonylurea or insulin, the dose may need to be lowered while you use tirzepatide. Symptoms of low blood sugar may include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, hunger, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat, and sweating. Your doctor should tell you how to treat low blood sugar.
Feeling sick (nausea)
Diarrhea
Vomiting (usually goes away over time)
Constipation
These side effects are usually not severe and are most common when first starting Mounjaro 2.5mg, which is the reason for starting on a lower dose. These side effects tend to decrease over time in most patients. Constipation and vomiting are very common when used for weight management, but common when used for type 2 diabetes.
Common Mounjaro side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when tirzepatide is used for type 2 diabetes with both metformin and a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (another diabetes medicine): Symptoms may include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, hunger, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat, and sweating. Your doctor should tell you how to treat low blood sugar.
Allergic reaction (hypersensitivity): Symptoms may include rash, itching, and eczema.
Dizziness observed in patients treated for weight management.
Low blood pressure observed in patients treated for weight management.
Decreased appetite observed in patients treated for type 2 diabetes.
Stomach (abdominal) pain
Indigestion (dyspepsia)
Stomach bloating
Burping (eructation)
Gas (flatulence)
Reflux or heartburn (gastroesophageal reflux disease – GORD): A condition caused by stomach acid coming up into the tube from your stomach to your mouth.
Hair loss observed in patients treated for weight management.
Feeling tired (fatigue)
Injection site reactions: Such as itching or redness.
Fast pulse: Common when used for type 2 diabetes and uncommon when used for weight management.
Increased levels of pancreatic enzymes (such as lipase and amylase) in blood: Increased levels of amylase is uncommon in weight management.
Uncommon Mounjaro side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when tirzepatide is used with metformin for type 2 diabetes: Symptoms may include headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, hunger, confusion, irritability, fast heartbeat, and sweating. Your doctor should tell you how to treat low blood sugar.
Gallstones
Weight loss observed in patients treated for type 2 diabetes
Injection site pain
Increased calcitonin levels in blood
Cholecystitis (infection of the gallbladder) observed in patients treated for weight management.
What are the ten most common side effects of Mounjaro?
The 10 most common side effects of Mounjaro from the SURMOUNT 1 trial were
Mounjaro’s most common side effect was nausea
Mounjaro’s second most common side effect was diarrhoea
Mounjaro’s third most common side effect was constipation
Mounjaro’s fourth most common side effect was dyspepsia or indigestion
Mounjaro’s fifth most common side effect was vomiting
Mounjaro’s sixth most common side effect was headache
Mounjaro’s seventh most common side effect was abdominal pain
Mounjaro’s eighth most common side effect was alopecia or hair loss
Mounjaro’s ninth most common side effect was dizziness
Mounjaro’s tenth most common side effect was eructation…or burping.
Number of people experiencing side effects in the SURMOUNT-1 trial
Side effect
Tirzepatide 5mg
Tirzepatide 10mg
Tirzepatide 15mg
Placebo
Nausea
24.6
33.3
31
9.5
Diarrhoea
18.7
21.2
23
7.3
Constipation
16.8
17.1
11.7
5.8
Dyspepsia or indigestion
8.9
9.7
11.3
4.2
Vomiting
8.3
10.7
12.2
1.7
Headache
6.5
6.8
6.5
6.5
Abdominal pain
4.9
5.3
4.9
3.3
Alopecia or hair loss
5.1
4.9
5.7
0.9
Dizziness
4.1
5.5
4
2.3
Eructation or burping
3.8
5.2
5.6
0.6
Table of side effect experienced by participants of the SURMOUNT-1 trial
Reporting of side effects:
If you experience any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.
Does Mounjaro 2.5mg interact with any other medicines?
Tirzepatide can slow down stomach emptying, which may impact how other oral medications are absorbed. This is most noticeable when you first start taking tirzepatide.
Mounjaro and paracetamol:
When taken with tirzepatide, the peak concentration (Cmax) of paracetamol is reduced by 50%, and it takes an additional hour to reach this peak (tmax).
No dose adjustment for paracetamol is needed.
The effect on paracetamol absorption is dose-dependent. Lower doses of tirzepatide (0.5 and 1.5 mg) only slightly change paracetamol levels. After four weekly doses of tirzepatide (5/5/8/10 mg), there is no effect on paracetamol Cmax and tmax, and overall exposure (AUC) remains unchanged.
Mounjaro and oral conntraceptives:
A single 5 mg dose of tirzepatide can reduce the Cmax and AUC of oral contraceptives, delaying their peak levels.
Ethinyl estradiol: Cmax reduced by 59%, AUC by 20%, with a delay in tmax of 4 hours.
Norelgestromin: Cmax reduced by 55%, AUC by 23%, with a delay in tmax of 4.5 hours.
Norgestimate: Cmax reduced by 66%, AUC by 20%, with a delay in tmax of 2.5 hours.
These changes are not considered clinically significant, so no dose adjustment is needed for women with a normal BMI.
Special considerations when Mounjaro is taken with oral contraceptives in overweight or obese women:
There is limited data on how tirzepatide affects oral contraceptives in overweight or obese women. Reduced effectiveness cannot be ruled out.
It is recommended to switch to a non-oral contraceptive method or add a barrier method of contraception for 4 weeks when starting tirzepatide and after each dose increase.
Mounjaro and levothyroxine
Although there are no official drug interactions between Mounjaro and levothyroxine, care should be taken and the thyroid levels should be monitored. To learn more, read our blog, "Can you take Mounjaro with levothyroxine?"
Mounjaro and alcohol
There are no official interactions between Mounjaro and alcohol, but it is advised to limit the intake of alcohol as it can increase the side effects such as nausea and dizziness. To learn about Mounjaro and alcohol, read our blog, "Can you drink alcohol while taking Mounjaro?"
Mounjaro 2.5mg FAQs
Can I drink alcohol while using Mounjaro?
It’s best to limit alcohol consumption while using Mounjaro, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as nausea and dizziness. For more information, visit our blog, "Can you drink alcohol while taking Mounjaro?"
Can I take Mounjaro with levothyroxine?
There are no confirmed interactions between Mounjaro and levothyroxine, but it’s important to monitor your thyroid levels closely. For more information, check out our blog, "Can I take Mounjaro with levothyroxine?"
Does Mounjaro cause thyroid cancer?
Although concerns arose from pre-clinical studies in rodents, there is little evidence suggesting that Mounjaro causes thyroid cancer in humans. For more details, read our blog,"Does Mounjaro cause thyroid cancer?"
How much weight can I lose with Mounjaro?
In the SURMOUNT 1 trial, Mounjaro showed the following weight loss results:
5mg: 16.4 kg (36.1 lbs)
10mg: 22.4 kg (49.4 lbs)
15mg: 23.8 kg (52.5 lbs)
Does Mounjaro help with sleep apnoea?
Studies suggest that Mounjaro may help improve symptoms of sleep apnoea. For more information, visit our blog, "Mounjaro and sleep apnoea."
Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?
Hair loss has been reported in about 5% of Mounjaro users, though it’s unclear if this is due to the medication or rapid weight loss. For more information, read our blog,"Does Mounjaro cause hair loss?"
How long do the side effects of Mounjaro last?
Side effects like nausea, bloating, and constipation are usually temporary and improve after a few days or weeks as your body adjusts. For more details, check out our blog, "How long do the side effects of Mounjaro last?"
Should I stop taking Mounjaro once I’ve reached my target weight?
Stopping Mounjaro after reaching your target weight may make it harder to maintain weight loss and could lead to weight regain due to increased appetite and unhealthy eating habits.
Can I start Mounjaro at 5 mg?
No, the starting dose of Mounjaro is 2.5 mg. Following the prescribed dosing schedule is important for minimizing side effects and allowing your body to adjust.
Can I stay on 2.5 mg of Mounjaro?
Staying on 2.5 mg long-term is generally not recommended. After about 4 weeks, the dose should be increased to 5 mg. If you experience severe side effects, contact us to discuss alternatives or adjustments.
Can you lose weight on 2.5 mg of Mounjaro?
Some weight loss may occur at 2.5 mg, but more significant results are usually seen with higher doses.
When do you move from 2.5 mg to 5 mg of Mounjaro?
After 4 weeks on 2.5 mg, you will typically increase to 5 mg. If you experience side effects, contact us to discuss how to proceed with your dosage.
Can you take Mounjaro every 10 days?
No, Mounjaro should be taken weekly, at the same time and on the same day. Taking it every 10 days could lead to hunger between doses. You can stay on a lower maintenance dose while maintaining the weekly schedule.
Which maintenance dose produces the most weight loss?
The SURMOUNT 1 trial found that the most weight loss occurred with the 15mg dose (23.8 kg over 72 weeks), followed by 10mg (22.4 kg) and 5mg (16.4 kg).
What is Mounjaro 2.5mg used for?
Mounjaro 2.5mg is used to aid weight loss and help manage blood sugar levels in adults with obesity or type 2 diabetes. It works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. It is the starting dose when taking Mounjaro for weight loss.
How does Mounjaro 2.5mg work?
Mounjaro 2.5mg contains tirzepatide, which activates GLP-1 and GIP receptors in the body. These hormones help regulate appetite and blood sugar levels by increasing feelings of fullness, reducing hunger, and slowing stomach emptying.
How long does it take for Mounjaro 2.5mg to work?
Initial weight loss can be seen as early as 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro 2.5mg, with patients losing around 5 lbs (2 kg). Continued weight loss has been observed over 40 weeks, with an average loss of 25 lbs (11.3 kg) at higher doses.
Is Mounjaro 2.5mg effective for weight loss?
Yes, Mounjaro 2.5mg has been shown to be effective in several clinical trials. In the SURPASS-2 trial, patients on higher doses of Mounjaro experienced significant weight loss, averaging 11% or 25 lbs over 40 weeks.
How do I take Mounjaro 2.5mg?
Mounjaro 2.5mg is administered as a subcutaneous injection once a week. To learn more, read our blog, "How to inject Mounjaro".
Do I need a prescription for Mounjaro 2.5mg?
Yes, a prescription is required for Mounjaro 2.5mg. You must complete a health consultation with a healthcare provider to determine if Mounjaro is suitable for you.
Is Mounjaro 2.5mg safe?
Mounjaro 2.5mg has been approved by the FDA in the US and the MHRA in the UK, with extensive literature supporting its safety and effectiveness. Common side effects include nausea and diarrhea. For a more detailed answer, please read our blog, "Is Mounjaro safe?"
Can I use Mounjaro 2.5mg if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Mounjaro 2.5mg is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding as its effects on the unborn child and breast milk are unknown. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Where can I buy Mounjaro 2.5mg in the UK?
You can buy Mounjaro 2.5mg from a Medicalmojo.co.uk after completeing an online health quiestionnaire. One of our prescribers then reviews your answers and issues a private prescription if appropriate. Then once payment is received, our pharmacy dispenses and dispatches discreetly direct to your door. All Mounjaro orders come with:
Mounjaro pens tailored to your needs
Personalised coaching for continuous support
FREE needles and sharps bins to get you started
FREE delivery
FREE month’s supply of supplements or hair loss treatments with your first Mounjaro order
Is Mounjaro 2.5mg addictive?
No, Mounjaro 2.5mg is not addictive. The active ingredient, tirzepatide, helps regulate appetite and blood sugar levels and does not cause addiction or dependence.
Is Mounjaro 2.5mg available in generic form?
No, there is currently no generic version of Mounjaro available.
Does Mounjaro 2.5mg affect oral contraceptives?
If you are a woman who is overweight or has obesity and uses oral contraceptives, consider also using a barrier method of contraception (e.g., a condom) or switching to a non-oral contraceptive method for 4 weeks after starting Mounjaro and for 4 weeks after each dose increase.
How long does Mounjaro take to work?
Data suggests that initial weight loss with Mounjaro can be seen as early as 4 weeks after starting, with an average loss of around 5 lbs (2 kg). Patients continued to experience weight loss until the study concluded at around 40 weeks, with those on the optimal dose losing an average of 25 lbs (11.3 kg).
How effective is the Mounjaro jab?
Mounjaro is highly effective in helping overweight and obese patients lose weight, as demonstrated in several clinical trials. In the 40-week SURPASS-2 trial involving 1,879 adult patients, those on the optimal 15 mg dose of Mounjaro experienced an average weight loss of 11% or 25 lbs. Patients sustained weight reductions throughout the 40 weeks.
Which is better: Mounjaro or Ozempic?
SURPASS-2 compared Mounjaro at doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg to once-weekly Ozempic 1 mg injections. Mounjaro at doses of 10 mg and 15 mg resulted in significantly better weight loss than Ozempic 1 mg.
Is Mounjaro safe?
Mounjaro has been approved for use by both the American FDA and the UK MHRA, with extensive literature supporting its safety and effectiveness. The most common side effects are nausea and diarrhea.
Can Mounjaro help with PCOS?
PCOS symptoms are improved with weigth loss and improved insulin sensitivity, and since Mounjaro ticks both these boxes, it can help with polycystic ovary syndrome. For more information, read our blog, "Mounjaro for PCOS".
When starting Mounjaro, the initial dose is always Mounjaro 2.5mg of tirzepatide, even if you’ve previously used Mounjaro or other weight loss injections. For example, you cannot switch directly from a high dose of Wegovy to a high dose of Mounjaro because their active ingredients are different.
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which works on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. These differences in active ingredients mean your body may respond differently, which is why it’s crucial to start with the Mounjaro 2.5mg dose to allow your body to adjust.
If you're considering switching and need assistance, contact us for a FREE Mounjaro weight loss consultation—our experienced prescribers will guide you through a safe and effective transition.
Which is better Mounjaro or Wegovy?
Initial findings from the latest SURMOUNT-5 trial reveal that Mounjaro’s U.S. counterpart, Zepbound, outperformed Wegovy in direct comparisons, achieving 47% more weight loss. Furthermore, results from the SURPASS-2 trial highlight Mounjaro’s superior effectiveness in managing both weight and blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
References:
Bokvist, K.B., Finan, B., Friedrichsen, S., & Heise, T. (2016). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists combined with glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) receptor agonists for the treatment of metabolic disorders. United States Patent US9474780B2. Retrieved from https://patents.google.com/patent/US9474780/en.
Chavda, V.P., Ajabiya, J., Teli, D., Bojarska, J. and Apostolopoulos, V., 2022. Tirzepatide, a new era of dual-targeted treatment for diabetes and obesity: a mini-review. Molecules, 27(13), p.4315.
ClinicalTrials.gov. (2021). SURMOUNT-1: Tirzepatide for Weight Loss in Non-Diabetic Obese Individuals. Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov.
ClinicalTrials.gov. (2023). Study of Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) in Overweight or Obese Participants with Weight-related Comorbidities (SURMOUNT-5). Retrieved from https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05822830
ClinicalTrials.gov. (n.d.). A study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tirzepatide (LY3298176) in patients with type 2 diabetes (NCT03987919). Retrieved December 17, 2024, from https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03987919
Coskun, T., et al. (2018). Tirzepatide, a dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonist, induces significant weight loss in patients with obesity. Diabetes Care, 41(10), 2100–2108.
Electronic Medicines Compendium. (n.d.). Mounjaro 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen [Patient Information Leaflet]. Retrieved December 17, 2024, from https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.15481.pdf
Jastreboff, A.M., Aronne, L.J., Ahmad, N.N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M.C. and Stefanski, A., 2022. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), pp.205-216.
Mounjaro Prescribing Information. (2021). Mounjaro (tirzepatide) injection. Eli Lilly and Company.
Nauck, M.A. and Meier, J.J., 2016. The incretin effect in healthy individuals and those with type 2 diabetes: physiology, pathophysiology, and response to therapeutic interventions. The lancet Diabetes & endocrinology, 4(6), pp.525-536
Pasternak, B., Wintzell, V., Hviid, A., Eliasson, B., Gudbjörnsdottir, S., Jonasson, C., Hveem, K., Svanström, H., Melbye, M. and Ueda, P., 2024. Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist use and risk of thyroid cancer: Scandinavian cohort study. bmj, 385.
