Michael J. Ormsbee is the editor of Fast Lose Fat. He is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition, Food, and Exercise Sciences and Interim Director of the Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine in the College of Human Sciences at Florida State University.
Is Mounjaro Approved for Weight Loss?
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Written by
Michael J. Ormsbee
- LAST UPDATED August 31, 2023
Obesity, a prevalent health problem worldwide, often goes hand-in-hand with type 2 diabetes. One drug that has been traditionally used to manage diabetes is Mounjaro. Recently, however, it has been gathering attention for a different reason – its potential role in weight loss.
Mounjaro, with an active ingredient known as Tirzepatide, is a diabetes medication. It is typically used to regulate blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes. It operates by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) which regulates both glucose and appetite.
Mounjaro and Weight Loss
What ignited interest among healthcare providers are clinical findings that suggest an accidental but beneficial side effect of Mounjaro – weight loss. Numerous research studies and clinical trials have shown that patients using Mounjaro for diabetes management often report significant weight loss.
How Does Mounjaro Contribute to Weight Loss?
Mounjaro is thought to aid in weight loss by regulating hunger signals in the body. It enhances feelings of fullness after eating, potentially helping to reduce the number of calories consumed. Furthermore, Mounjaro is believed to slow gastric emptying, which can further contribute to feelings of satiety.
Dosage and Side Effects of Mounjaro
The dosage of Mounjaro for weight loss is yet to be officially established as its approval for this specific use is still under review. Side effects of Mounjaro might include nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, which are usually temporary and lessen as your body adjusts to the medication.
FDA Approval Status
Mounjaro vs. Other Weight Loss Drugs
When pitted against dedicated weight loss drugs such as Wegovy, Mounjaro’s unique dual-functionality takes center stage.
Here are a few comparative dimensions:
- Effectiveness in Weight Loss: While Mounjaro has shown promising weight loss results in clinical trials, its effects may not be as substantial as those seen with specialized weight loss medications like Wegovy. For instance, in a clinical trial, patients on Mounjaro lost an average of 10% of their body weight over 52 weeks, while those on Wegovy reported a loss of approximately 15%.
- Dual-Functionality: Unlike Wegovy, which is primarily a weight loss drug, Mounjaro also helps in the management of type 2 diabetes by regulating blood glucose levels. This dual functionality can offer significant benefits for individuals suffering from both obesity and diabetes.
- Side Effects: While both medications may cause similar side effects, including nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting, the incidence of these effects might vary. A small percentage of Mounjaro users may experience these side effects, and they often subside as the body adjusts to the medication.
- Dosage: While both drugs are injectable, the regularity of dosage may differ. Currently, Wegovy is prescribed for once-weekly use, while the dosage schedule for Mounjaro is still under review.
Hence, although Mounjaro might not offer as strong of a weight loss effect as Wegovy, its dual potential in managing both weight and blood glucose could position it as a particularly beneficial treatment option for individuals battling both obesity and diabetes.
Finally
In conclusion, while Mounjaro is not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss, it shows promising results in this area, based on multiple research studies and clinical trials. However, given its current non-approved status for weight loss and potential side effects, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before considering Mounjaro as a weight loss remedy. Continued research and official review will determine whether Mounjaro becomes a widely accepted solution for obesity management.
Mounjaro and Weight Loss: Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Mounjaro be prescribed just for weight loss?
Technically, Mounjaro is not currently FDA-approved specifically for weight loss. As of now, it's used primarily to manage type 2 diabetes. However, because of its demonstrated potential in aiding weight loss, some health professionals might prescribe it off-label for this purpose. It's always essential to discuss with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen.
2. How soon will Mounjaro be approved for weight loss?
Unfortunately, without inside information, it's challenging to give a specific timeline for when, or even if, Mounjaro might receive FDA approval for weight loss. The process of drug approval can be lengthy, involving further research, clinical trials, and extensive review by the FDA.
3. How many pounds can you lose with Mounjaro?
The amount of weight one can lose with Mounjaro can widely vary depending on individual factors such as diet, exercise, genetic factors, and overall health. Clinical trials have reported encouraging results, with some study participants losing fairly significant amounts of weight. However, real-world results will also depend on how well the body responds to the medication. As always, healthcare professionals are your best source for personalized advice.
4. Can I lose 50 lbs on Mounjaro?
While Mounjaro has been associated with weight loss, losing 50 pounds is a significant weight loss goal that might not be achievable solely with medication. It's important to remember that a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, plays a major role in weight loss. Consulting with a healthcare professional will help you set realistic weight loss goals and strategies.
5. What not to eat on Mounjaro?
There isn't a specific list of foods to avoid while taking Mounjaro, but it's recommended to embrace a balanced diet, rich in nutrients, fiber, and lean proteins. Excessive amounts of sugary, processed, or fatty foods can hinder weight loss efforts, regardless of medication. However, because Mounjaro is traditionally a diabetes medication, those using it should follow any dietary recommendations given by their healthcare provider in respect to managing blood sugar levels.
