Mounjaro, a weight-loss medication also known as tirzepatide, has recently been approved by the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for weight loss and weight management. Originally developed to treat Type 2 diabetes, Mounjaro works by mimicking hormones that help regulate appetite and insulin, making it an effective tool for managing obesity.
How Does Mounjaro Work?
The active ingredient in Mounjaro, tirzepatide, works by mimicking the effects of two hormones: GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1). These hormones are naturally secreted by the intestine after eating and help signal the brain to make you feel full. Tirzepatide also stimulates insulin release, which lowers blood sugar levels, and slows the passage of food through the gut. This combination of effects helps with weight loss by reducing hunger and increasing feelings of satiety.
Mounjaro is self-administered via weekly injections, usually in the abdomen, thighs, or upper arms, depending on your preference or assistance from others. However, like other weight-loss medications, Mounjaro is not a miracle drug. It should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes such as a reduced-calorie diet and exercise.
Who Will Be Eligible for Mounjaro on the NHS?
The rollout of Mounjaro on the NHS is expected to be gradual, starting in 2025, and will prioritize people with a BMI over 35 and at least one obesity-related health problem, which could affect around 3.4 million people in the UK. Initially, the drug will be made available to those receiving care from specialist weight-management services, and they will be able to access the drug within 90 days of the NHS guidance being published (on December 23, 2023).
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) recommends that other groups of patients be gradually included in the next three years, with NHS England developing a plan to outline eligibility criteria.
It is important to note that Mounjaro is not for people with a healthy BMI looking to lose weight for cosmetic reasons. It is specifically intended for people who are medically obese and need support to reach a healthier weight.
Side Effects of Mounjaro
Like other weight-loss injectables, Mounjaro has potential side effects, especially as the body adjusts to the medication. The most common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Indigestion
To help reduce the risk of side effects, patients are typically prescribed a starting dose to allow their bodies to adjust to the medication.
Conclusion
Mounjaro offers a new option for managing obesity and related health issues, but its availability on the NHS will be limited at first, prioritizing those with the highest clinical need. While it holds promise for helping individuals lose weight and improve their health, it should be viewed as part of a broader treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes, not as a standalone solution. If you’re eligible and interested, be sure to consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits.
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