Key Facts at a Glance
- Active Ingredient: Tirzepatide
- Administration: Weekly subcutaneous injection
- UK Approval: Type 2 diabetes (NHS), Weight management (Private)
- Average Weight Loss: 15-22.5% body weight over 72 weeks
- UK Cost: £174-289 per month (private prescription)
- Starting Dose: 2.5mg weekly for 4 weeks
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injectable medication approved in the UK for treating type 2 diabetes and, through private prescription, for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related health conditions.
Manufactured by Eli Lilly, Mounjaro was approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in September 2022 for type 2 diabetes and is available for weight management through private healthcare providers.
Quick Overview
| Generic Name | Tirzepatide |
| Brand Name | Mounjaro |
| Drug Class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly and Company |
| UK Approval Date | September 2022 (diabetes), 2023 (weight management – private) |
| Available Doses | 2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, 15mg |
What Makes Mounjaro Different?
Unlike other weight loss medications such as Wegovy (semaglutide), which target only GLP-1 receptors, Mounjaro is a dual-action medication that targets both GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors.
This dual mechanism has demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes compared to single-action GLP-1 medications in clinical trials, with patients losing an average of 15-22.5% of their body weight over 72 weeks.
How Mounjaro Works: Mechanism of Action
Mounjaro works by mimicking two naturally occurring hormones in your body: GIP and GLP-1. These hormones play crucial roles in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite control.
The Dual-Action Mechanism
GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) Action:
- Appetite Suppression: Signals to your brain that you’re full, reducing overall food intake
- Delayed Gastric Emptying: Slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, keeping you fuller for longer
- Blood Sugar Control: Stimulates insulin release when blood sugar is elevated
- Glucagon Reduction: Reduces glucagon secretion, preventing excess glucose production
GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) Action:
- Enhanced Insulin Response: Works synergistically with GLP-1 to improve insulin secretion
- Fat Metabolism: May influence how your body stores and uses fat
- Energy Expenditure: Potentially increases the calories your body burns at rest
Why Dual Action Matters
The combination of GIP and GLP-1 receptor activation appears to produce greater weight loss than GLP-1 alone. In head-to-head trials comparing Mounjaro to Ozempic (semaglutide, a GLP-1-only medication), Mounjaro demonstrated superior weight loss outcomes:
| Medication | Mechanism | Average Weight Loss (72 weeks) |
|---|---|---|
| Mounjaro 15mg | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | 22.5% |
| Wegovy 2.4mg | GLP-1 only | 15-16% |
| Ozempic 2mg | GLP-1 only | 12-14% |
| Saxenda 3mg | GLP-1 only | 7-9% |
Source: SURMOUNT-1 trial data (NEJM, 2022); STEP trials; Saxenda prescribing information
Clinical Evidence: What the Research Shows
Mounjaro’s effectiveness has been demonstrated in multiple large-scale clinical trials, most notably the SURMOUNT trial series for weight management and SURPASS trials for diabetes management.
SURMOUNT-1 Trial: Weight Loss Results
The SURMOUNT-1 trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2022, enrolled 2,539 adults with obesity or overweight (without diabetes) and tracked their progress over 72 weeks.
Average Weight Loss by Dose (72 weeks):
| Treatment Group | Average Weight Loss (%) | Average Weight Loss (kg) | Patients Losing >20% Body Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Placebo | 3.1% | 3.5kg | 3% |
| Mounjaro 5mg | 15.0% | 15.9kg | 30% |
| Mounjaro 10mg | 19.5% | 21.1kg | 50% |
| Mounjaro 15mg | 22.5% | 24.7kg | 63% |
Real-World Weight Loss Timeline
Based on clinical trial data, here’s what patients typically experience:
| Time Period | Expected Weight Loss | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1-4 | 1-3% body weight | Initial dose (2.5mg), reduced appetite, possible mild nausea |
| Weeks 5-8 | 3-5% body weight | Dose increase to 5mg, continued appetite suppression |
| Weeks 9-16 | 6-10% body weight | Further dose increases, weight loss accelerates |
| Weeks 17-36 | 10-15% body weight | Peak dose achieved, steady weight loss continues |
| Weeks 37-72 | 15-22.5% body weight | Maintenance phase, weight stabilizes at lower level |
⚠️ Important Considerations:
- Individual results vary based on starting weight, adherence, lifestyle factors, and dose
- Maximum weight loss typically occurs between 60-72 weeks
- Behavioral changes (diet, exercise) significantly improve outcomes
- Weight regain can occur if medication is discontinued without lifestyle maintenance
Additional Health Benefits
Beyond weight loss, Mounjaro has demonstrated improvements in:
- Blood Pressure: Average reduction of 7-10 mmHg systolic
- Cholesterol: Improvements in HDL and triglycerides
- HbA1c: Significant reductions in patients with prediabetes or diabetes
- Liver Function: Improvements in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease markers
- Inflammation: Reduced C-reactive protein levels
Mounjaro Dosing Schedule: How to Use It
Mounjaro follows a gradual dose escalation protocol to minimize side effects while maximizing effectiveness. The medication is self-administered once weekly via a pre-filled injection pen.
Standard Dose Escalation Schedule
| Weeks | Dose | Purpose | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 2.5mg | Initiation dose – allow body to adjust | Mild appetite reduction, possible minor nausea |
| 5-8 | 5mg | First increase – therapeutic effect begins | Noticeable appetite suppression, steady weight loss |
| 9-12 | 7.5mg | Continued escalation | Increased weight loss rate |
| 13-16 | 10mg | Therapeutic dose for many patients | Strong appetite control, consistent weight loss |
| 17-20 | 12.5mg | Optional higher dose | Enhanced effects for some patients |
| 21+ | 15mg | Maximum dose (if tolerated and needed) | Maximum therapeutic benefit |
Important Dosing Notes:
- Doses must be increased gradually – never skip steps
- Not everyone needs to reach 15mg – many patients achieve goals at 10mg
- Your prescriber will determine the right dose based on your response and tolerability
- If you experience significant side effects, your dose increase may be delayed
How to Inject Mounjaro
- Choose injection site: Abdomen (5cm away from belly button), thigh, or upper arm
- Rotate sites: Use different areas each week to prevent irritation
- Prepare pen: Check expiry date, allow to reach room temperature (15-30 min)
- Clean site: Use alcohol wipe and let dry completely
- Inject: Press pen firmly against skin, press button, hold for 10 seconds
- Dispose safely: Place used pen in sharps container
Best Time to Inject
Mounjaro can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Most patients prefer:
- Evening: Sleep through any initial nausea
- Same day each week: Consistency improves adherence (e.g., every Sunday evening)
- Before a lighter eating day: Some patients prefer weekends when appetite reduction is easier to manage
What If You Miss a Dose?
- Within 4 days: Take it as soon as you remember, then resume normal schedule
- More than 4 days: Skip the missed dose and take next dose on regular day
- Never double dose to make up for a missed injection
Storage Requirements
- Unopened pens: Store in refrigerator (2-8°C)
- In-use pens: Can be kept at room temperature (up to 30°C) for up to 21 days
- Do not freeze – if frozen, discard the pen
- Protect from light: Keep in original carton until use
- Travel: Use insulated bag with ice pack for journeys over 30 minutes
For more detailed information about Mounjaro’s approval and safety profile, refer to the NICE guidance on tirzepatide for treating type 2 diabetes, which provides comprehensive clinical recommendations for UK healthcare providers.
The clinical evidence for Mounjaro’s effectiveness comes from the landmark SURMOUNT-1 trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which demonstrated significant weight loss outcomes across different dosage levels.
Patients should always consult with healthcare professionals before starting any weight loss medication. For additional support and information about obesity management, visit the NHS obesity treatment guidelines, which outline comprehensive approaches to weight management in the UK.
Mounjaro Side Effects: What to Expect
Like all medications, Mounjaro can cause side effects. Most are mild to moderate and typically improve as your body adjusts to the medication, particularly after dose increases.
Common Side Effects (Affecting 10%+ of Patients)
| Side Effect | Frequency | Severity | Management Strategies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nausea | 25-35% | Mild-Moderate | Eat smaller meals, avoid fatty/spicy foods, ginger tea, usually resolves after 1-2 weeks |
| Diarrhea | 18-25% | Mild-Moderate | Stay hydrated, avoid trigger foods, probiotics may help |
| Decreased appetite | 20-30% | Mild (intended effect) | Focus on nutrient-dense foods, protein-rich small meals |
| Constipation | 15-20% | Mild-Moderate | Increase fiber, hydration, gentle exercise, consider stool softener |
| Vomiting | 8-12% | Moderate | Eat slowly, smaller portions, avoid lying down after eating |
| Fatigue | 10-15% | Mild | Ensure adequate calorie/protein intake, improve sleep hygiene |
| Injection site reactions | 5-10% | Mild | Rotate injection sites, cold compress, usually resolves quickly |
Side Effect Timeline
Understanding when side effects occur helps manage expectations:
- Days 1-3 after first injection: Most common time for initial nausea/GI symptoms
- Week 2-4: Symptoms typically improve significantly
- After dose increases: Mild return of symptoms for 3-7 days, then improvement
- Weeks 12+: Most patients report minimal ongoing side effects
Rare but Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)
⚠️ Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Severe abdominal pain: Especially if persistent and radiating to back (possible pancreatitis)
- Vision changes: Sudden blurriness or vision loss (diabetic retinopathy concerns)
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations: Unusual heart rhythm
- Severe allergic reaction: Difficulty breathing, swelling of face/throat, severe rash
- Signs of thyroid tumor: Lump in neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing (extremely rare)
- Severe hypoglycemia: Confusion, sweating, shakiness (mainly if combined with insulin/sulfonylureas)
- Kidney problems: Reduced urination, swelling in legs, severe dehydration
- Gallbladder issues: Sudden upper right abdominal pain, fever, yellowing of skin
Who Experiences More Side Effects?
Side effects tend to be more common in:
- Patients with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions
- Those who increase doses too quickly
- Individuals with a history of pancreatitis
- Patients taking other medications affecting GI function
Minimizing Side Effects: Best Practices
- Slow dose escalation: Follow the prescribed schedule exactly
- Dietary adjustments: Smaller, more frequent meals; avoid fatty, spicy, or heavy foods
- Stay hydrated: At least 2 liters of water daily
- Protein first: Prioritize protein to maintain muscle mass and reduce nausea
- Timing of meals: Eat 1-2 hours before or after injection if nausea is problematic
- Anti-nausea aids: Ginger, peppermint, small sips of clear fluids
- Physical activity: Gentle exercise can help with constipation and energy levels
💡 Why Behavioral Support Matters
At Evernu, we provide behavioral health support alongside Mounjaro prescriptions specifically to help you manage side effects and optimize your treatment. Our approach includes:
- Personalized meal planning to minimize GI symptoms
- Strategies for maintaining protein intake despite reduced appetite
- Mental health support for the psychological aspects of rapid weight loss
- Regular check-ins to adjust treatment as needed
Who Can Take Mounjaro? Eligibility Criteria
Mounjaro is not suitable for everyone. UK prescribers follow specific clinical guidelines to determine eligibility for treatment.
Standard Eligibility Criteria (Private Prescription)
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 years or older (not approved for children/adolescents in UK) |
| BMI |
|
| Weight Loss History | Previous unsuccessful attempts at diet and exercise (typically 6+ months) |
| Commitment | Willingness to make lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) alongside medication |
NHS Eligibility (Type 2 Diabetes Only)
As of December 2024, NHS prescriptions for Mounjaro are limited to patients with type 2 diabetes who meet specific NICE criteria:
- Diagnosed type 2 diabetes
- BMI ≥35 (or ≥32.5 for people of South Asian, Chinese, other Asian, Middle Eastern, Black African or African-Caribbean descent)
- HbA1c above target despite other treatments
- Already tried metformin and at least one other diabetes medication
Note: NHS weight management use of Mounjaro is not yet routinely available. Most patients seeking Mounjaro for weight loss require private prescription.
Medical Conditions That May Affect Eligibility
⚠️ Absolute Contraindications (Cannot Use):
- History of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Personal or family history of MTC
- Severe allergic reaction to tirzepatide or ingredients
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Type 1 diabetes (not indicated)
⚠️ Requires Caution (Discuss with Prescriber):
- History of pancreatitis
- Severe gastrointestinal disease (gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease)
- Diabetic retinopathy (requires monitoring)
- Kidney disease (dose adjustments may be needed)
- Gallbladder disease or gallstones
- History of depression or suicidal thoughts
- Taking other weight loss medications
- Planning pregnancy within next 6-12 months
Medication Interactions
Inform your prescriber if you’re taking:
| Medication Type | Potential Interaction | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Insulin or sulfonylureas | Increased risk of hypoglycemia | Dose reduction of insulin/sulfonylurea may be required |
| Oral contraceptives | May reduce absorption in first 4 weeks | Use backup contraception for 4 weeks after starting |
| Warfarin | May affect INR | More frequent INR monitoring initially |
| Other GLP-1 agonists | Should not be combined | Choose one medication only |
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
⚠️ Important: Mounjaro is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- If planning pregnancy: Stop Mounjaro at least 2 months before trying to conceive
- If you become pregnant: Stop taking Mounjaro immediately and contact your healthcare provider
- Breastfeeding: Unknown if Mounjaro passes into breast milk – discuss alternatives with your doctor
- Contraception: Use reliable contraception while taking Mounjaro
Check Your Eligibility
Not sure if you’re eligible for Mounjaro? At Evernu, our clinical team can assess your suitability during a free 15-minute consultation.
How Much Does Mounjaro Cost in the UK?
Mounjaro pricing in the UK varies significantly depending on whether you’re accessing it through the NHS (limited availability) or private prescription services. As of December 2025, private costs have increased following Eli Lilly’s September 2025 price rises.
Private Prescription Costs (December 2025)
| Provider | Monthly Cost | What’s Included | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evernu | £174.25/month |
|
No hidden fees, cancel anytime |
| Medicspot | £149-329/month |
|
Cheapest option, basic service |
| Boots Online Doctor | £179-299/month |
|
Higher doses cost more |
| Superdrug Online Doctor | £215-245/month |
|
Mid-range pricing |
| Second Nature | £229-349/month |
|
Premium service with coaching |
Cost Breakdown: What You’re Really Paying For
Understanding the components of Mounjaro costs:
- Medication itself: ~£120-180 wholesale cost per month (varies by dose)
- Clinical assessment: £30-60 (consultation, eligibility review, prescription)
- Ongoing monitoring: £20-40 (monthly check-ins, dose adjustments)
- Dispensing & delivery: £10-20
- Behavioral support: £30-50 (when included – Evernu only)
Annual Cost Comparison
Weight loss treatment is typically a 12-18 month commitment. Here’s what to budget:
| Provider | 12-Month Total | 18-Month Total | Cost Per % Body Weight Lost* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evernu | £2,091 | £3,137 | £93-139/% lost |
| Medicspot (avg) | £2,748 | £4,122 | £122-183/% lost |
| Boots (avg) | £2,868 | £4,302 | £127-191/% lost |
| Second Nature (avg) | £3,468 | £5,202 | £154-231/% lost |
*Based on average 15-22.5% body weight loss in clinical trials
NHS Availability & Costs
NHS prescription charges for Mounjaro (diabetes patients only):
- England: £9.90 per prescription (covers 4 weekly doses = ~£2.50/week)
- Scotland: Free prescriptions
- Wales: Free prescriptions
- Northern Ireland: Free prescriptions
Important: NHS coverage for weight loss is extremely limited and currently restricted to patients with BMI over 40 (or 37.5 for ethnic minorities) plus multiple weight-related conditions. Most patients seeking weight loss treatment require private prescription.
Why Evernu Offers Exceptional Value
At £174.25/month, Evernu provides comprehensive care while remaining cost-competitive:
| Feature | Evernu | Basic Competitors | Premium Competitors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | £174.25 | £149-245 | £229-349 |
| Behavioral support | ✅ Included | ❌ Not included | ✅ App-based only |
| Dedicated clinical team | ✅ Personal support | ❌ Generic service | ⚠️ App-based |
| Flexible cancellation | ✅ Anytime | ⚠️ Varies | ⚠️ Varies |
| Clinical monitoring | ✅ Ongoing | ❌ Basic | ✅ Yes |
12-month savings vs premium competitors: £900-1,380
Added value vs basic competitors: Behavioral support + dedicated clinical care
Payment Options
- Monthly subscription: £174.25/month, cancel anytime (most popular)
- 3-month prepay: Save 5% (£165.54/month = £496.61 upfront)
- 6-month prepay: Save 10% (£156.83/month = £941.00 upfront)
All major credit/debit cards accepted. Delivery included across the UK.
Ready to Start Your Weight Loss Journey?
Get Mounjaro for £174.25/month – including clinical support, behavioral coaching, and ongoing monitoring.
✅ No hidden fees ✅ Cancel anytime ✅ UK-qualified doctors ✅ Comprehensive support
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