Frequently Asked Questions

Our medical team will go through and independently validate with you your medical and lifestyle history, the majority of people who need to lose weight are suitable for weight loss injections.

Check your BMI here 

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a prescription medication approved for weight management. It belongs to a class of drugs known as incretin mimetics and is unique because it acts on two different hormones involved in blood sugar regulation: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual mechanism not only aids in controlling blood glucose levels but also contributes to weight loss.

Mounjaro works by mimicking the actions of the incretin hormones GLP-1 and GIP, which play key roles in regulating blood sugar. By activating GLP-1 receptors, it enhances insulin secretion when blood sugar levels are high, slows down gastric emptying, and suppresses appetite. The activation of GIP receptors further improves insulin response and possibly enhances the overall effectiveness in lowering blood sugar levels. Together, these actions help to control blood glucose levels more effectively and promote weight loss by reducing appetite and caloric intake.

Mounjaro is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) once a week. The exact dosing will be determined by your Weight Medics clinician based on your health needs and response to the medication. It's important for patients to follow their prescribed dosing schedule closely to achieve the best possible outcomes in weight management.

Weight Medics has an integrated team of Doctors, Nurses, Clinical Pharmacists, Nutritionists, movement experts and mindfulness practitioners, with over 30 years of experience in weight management Weight Medics is a CQC-registered provider and fully compliant with the new GPhC guidelines.

Read more here

Typical patients are on the injection plan for 6-12 months to allow time to titrate up through the doses to the maintenance doses. It's important to follow the dosing schedule as recommended by your clinician at Weight Medics to minimise any side effects. 

Weight Medics has a tapering protocol in place to help patients who have reached their goal weight and to help minimise any weight regain. 

Weekly weight loss injection patients are not required to follow a diet, because the medication will curb your appetite, however, to see long-term results, we recommend making healthy food choices alongside your plan. We have a number of additional resources to help you achieve and maintain your weight loss goals. Click here to find out more.

Most, if not all medications come with a risk of side effects, but those you may experience whilst taking GLP1 injections are usually temporary and can be managed. The most common side effect with GLP1's is nausea, and some patients experience headaches, reflux or constipation. Our expert team are here to help with any queries on the side effects of this medication.

Patients with diabetes are not eligible for the Weight Management Packages.

The use of weight loss injections may affect your diabetes treatment. If you have diabetes, please discuss weight management options with your usual GP. 

Our Weight Management Packages may not be suitable if you:

have severe kidney disease
have class IV heart failure
have severe liver disease
have a history of pancreatitis
have a history of diabetic retinopathy
are pregnant or breastfeeding
have historically had an eating disorder
have had a serious allergic reaction to semaglutide or tirzepatide
have severe gastrointestinal disease, including severe gastroparesis
are 85 or over

Your  clinician will decide whether it's safe for you to use Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, Phentermine or Orlistat when looking at your medical history.

Those with diabetes aren’t eligible for the Weight Management Packages with Weight Medics. If you have diabetes please discuss weight management options with your usual GP.

When using a Mounjaro pen, encountering a jammed pen can be confusing - especially if you're unsure whether you’ve taken your final dose.

Here’s what you need to know.

1. You’ve already taken all four doses
Mounjaro pens are designed to deliver precise doses of tirzepatide. After completing all four doses, the pen’s safety mechanism prevents further doses to avoid overdosing. If you can’t dial another dose but see leftover liquid, it’s because the pen has already delivered the intended 2.4ml (0.6ml per dose). The remaining liquid is not meant for use and ensures accurate priming.

2. Leftover liquid causing confusion
Each pen contains more liquid than needed for four doses, leading to leftover liquid after the final dose. This often leads patients to think they missed a dose. Rest assured, if you’ve used the pen four times, it has delivered the full course of treatment. Logging your doses or consulting a clinician can confirm this.

3. Needle attachment issues

If the pen doesn’t inject, it could be due to the needle not being securely attached, with the internal needle not being bent. Ensure the needle is straight, twisted firmly onto the pen, and that both caps (outer and inner) are removed. A loose or blocked needle will prevent medication flow.

4. A blocked or faulty needle
A faulty or blocked needle may also cause injection issues. Replace the needle with a new one, ensuring it’s securely attached and primed correctly. This simple fix often resolves injection problems. Ensure the internal needle is piercing the red rubber bung.

5. Suspected pen malfunction
If you’ve followed all the steps—checked the needle, replaced it, removed caps, and confirmed you haven’t completed all four doses—but the pen still doesn’t work, there might be a malfunction. In this case, contact our admin team for guidance or a replacement.

How to troubleshoot a jammed pen
If your pen won’t inject, follow these steps:

Check the needle attachment: Ensure the needle is secure and both caps are removed.
Try a new needle: Replace the needle and prime it correctly.
Contact the admin team: If the pen still doesn’t work, reach out for support.

How to avoid future confusion
Track your doses carefully: 
Understand pen mechanics: Leftover liquid is normal and doesn’t indicate a missed dose.
Review instructional resources: Follow step-by-step guides to ensure proper use.

Wegovy and Ozempic are two medications which use the same active ingredient for different purposes.

They are both manufactured by Novo Nordisk, which holds the patent for both medications at the moment. Ozempic is a medication for patients with type 2 diabetes that helps you to control your blood sugar, and it can be used alone or alongside other medicines like insulin or metformin.

As they both contain semaglutide, these medications work similarly, but that doesn’t mean you can use them interchangeably.

Ozempic is used in different dose sizes to Wegovy, with Wegovy often being prescribed in higher amounts, so if you’re already taking Ozempic for type 2 diabetes you won’t be able to take Wegovy as well, as this could cause an overdose of the active ingredient.

Your Guide to Stopping Mounjaro Medication: A Supportive Approach

Research suggests that some patients experience weight regain after stopping medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy (STEP-1 Trial Extension). This has sparked discussions about whether long-term use may be beneficial, especially for those managing conditions like high cholesterol, hypertension, or diabetes. (Source)

Why Does Weight Regain Happen?
There are a few reasons why weight regain can occur:

Hormonal Changes: Mounjaro and Wegovy increases levels of GIP and GLP-1, hormones that help regulate appetite. When you stop the medication, these levels decrease, potentially increasing hunger.
Lifestyle Factors: A return to an unbalanced diet or reduced physical activity can also contribute to weight gain. Maintaining healthy habits is key to long-term success.

Our Approach at Weight Medics 
At Weight Medics, we advocate for a gradual reduction in medication dosage rather than abrupt discontinuation. Here’s why:

Preventing Rapid Weight Regain – Stopping suddenly can lead to intense hunger and cravings. Some studies indicate that gradual tapering over several months helps patients sustain their weight loss. 
Helping Your Body Adjust – A step-by-step tapering process allows your body to naturally regulate hunger through diet and exercise.
Supporting Long-Term Success – A structured approach ensures you solidify healthy habits, including balanced nutrition, physical activity, and mindful eating.

Here are some other tips to help reduce weight regain when tapering off weight loss medication. 

Stay Active* – Strength training 2-3x per week can help preserve muscle. 
Eat Smart – Prioritise protein, fiber, and healthy fats to manage hunger. Our Weight Medics Nutritionist can support you. Find out more here. 
Build Healthy Habits – Maintain consistent meal timing and manage stress effectively.
Track Progress – Monitor your weight monthly and adjust as needed.
Remember: Weight maintenance is a lifelong journey. 

What If I Start Gaining Weight Again?
Don’t panic! Here’s what to do: ✔ Review Your Habits – Have portion sizes or meal timing changed? ✔ Increase Protein & Fiber – These nutrients keep you feeling full longer. ✔ Stay Active – Continue strength training and daily movement. ✔ Consider a Low Dose Restart – If needed, a weekly low dose can help regain control.

At Weight Medics, we offer personalised tapering plans and long-term maintenance support for GLP-1 treatment. Our patient-centered approach ensures that together, we find the most effective and safe way for you to maintain your weight loss. Our prescribers will work with you to create a plan tailored to your body’s needs and goals.

Let’s navigate this journey together—because your health and success matter!

*always consult with your GP before commencing any new fitness programme.

Q: How can a nutritionist enhance my weight loss journey with medication?

A: A nutritionist can create tailored nutrition strategies that complement your weight loss medication, helping you build healthier habits and ensure long-term results. They can provide personalised advice based on your unique needs and medical conditions, maximising the effectiveness of your weight loss efforts.

Q: What specific benefits does a nutritionist offer in conjunction with weight loss medication?

A: A nutritionist can:

Help set realistic and achievable weight loss goals
Develop a personalised nutrition plan that works alongside your medication
Provide education on reading food labels and making better food choices
Offer strategies to manage emotional eating and improve your relationship with food
Monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed

Q: How does a functional nutritionist differ from a regular nutritionist?

A: Functional nutritionists at Weight Medics can identify nutritional deficiencies through lab testing and recommend appropriate supplementation, offering a more comprehensive approach to your overall health and weight loss journey.

Q: Will seeing a nutritionist improve my long-term weight loss success?

A: Absolutely. Nutritionists focus on behavioural change, which is key to long-term weight loss success. They address root causes of weight gain like eating patterns and mindset, reducing the risk of weight regain after stopping medication.

Q: Can a nutritionist help me transition off weight loss medication?

A: Yes, a nutritionist can provide tools and maintenance programmes to help you keep the weight off for good, even after you stop taking weight loss medication.

Please find enclosed a link below to a brief instructional video outlining the proper usage of your new Mounjaro pen

Click here 

We recommend reviewing this video in conjunction with the patient information and user leaflet provided within the Mounjaro pen box from your Weight Medics prescriber. 

Please find enclosed a link below to a brief instructional video outlining the proper usage of your new Wegovy pen

Click here 

We recommend reviewing this video in conjunction with the patient information and user leaflet provided within the Wegovy pen box from your Weight Medics prescriber. 

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a groundbreaking weight loss medication recently approved in the UK. While it has shown remarkable efficacy in promoting weight loss, it's crucial to understand its potential side effects. Here we explore common, less common, and serious side effects of Mounjaro, along with management strategies for those using it for weight loss.

Common Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects of Mounjaro are gastrointestinal in nature 1,3:

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Indigestion

These side effects typically occur as the body adjusts to the medication and often subside over time.

Management Tips

• Hair loss (alopecia)
• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or itching)
• Dizziness or low blood pressure
• Burping and excess gas
• Serious Side Effects

While rare, some serious side effects require immediate medical attention2:

Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, nausea, and vomiting.
Severe Allergic Reactions: Look out for swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, hives, or dizziness.
Kidney Issues: Dehydration from persistent vomiting or diarrhoea can worsen kidney function.

Mounjaro and Cancer

There have been discussions online about a potential link between Mounjaro and thyroid cancer. However, no human clinical trials have identified cancer as a side effect of taking Mounjaro.

These concerns originate from a study conducted on male and female rats over a two-year period. The research found that tirzepatide, when administered twice weekly, led to an increase in thyroid C-cell tumors (adenomas and carcinomas) across all dosage levels. It’s important to note that rats have a higher susceptibility to developing tumors, meaning these findings do not necessarily indicate an increased cancer risk for humans using Mounjaro.5,6,7

A separate six-month study on mice receiving twice-weekly tirzepatide injections found no cases of thyroid C-cell hyperplasia (abnormal cell changes) or neoplasia (abnormal cell growth).5,6,7

Additionally, research into tirzepatide and cancer rates suggests that Mounjaro, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists, may actually help reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly those associated with high blood sugar, diabetes, and obesity. 5,6,7

When prescribing Mounjaro, clinicians carefully assess whether the benefits outweigh any potential risks. Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly lower the chances of developing serious conditions such as stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Duration of Side Effects

Most mild side effects subside within a few days to weeks as your body adjusts to Mounjaro. However, serious side effects may persist and require medical intervention6.

Who Should Avoid Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is not suitable for everyone. Avoid this medication if you2:

Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
Have severe gastrointestinal issues

What to Do If You Experience Severe Side Effects
If you experience severe side effects from Mounjaro3:

• Stop taking the medication immediately.
• Seek urgent medical attention, especially for symptoms of pancreatitis,
• severe allergic reactions, or persistent gastrointestinal issues.
• For ongoing side effects that don't improve or become severe, consult your doctor promptly.
• Report any side effects to the appropriate authorities, such as through the Yellow Card Scheme.

Availability and Approval in the UK
Mounjaro was approved by the MHRA for weight management in November 20233. As of March 2025, it is available on prescription in UK.

Effectiveness for Weight Loss

Clinical trials have shown that Mounjaro can help people lose up to 22.5% of their body weight6. If you haven't lost at least 5% of your starting body weight after 6 months, your doctor may advise stopping the treatment.

Final Thoughts
Mounjaro represents a significant advancement in weight management. However, like any medication, it comes with potential risks. Understanding its side effects can help you make informed decisions about your treatment plan. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting Mounjaro to ensure it's safe and suitable for you.

References:

1. Medical News Today - Mounjaro for weight loss: Price, side effects, and more
2. Medical News Today - Mounjaro side effects: Common, serious, and long term
3. GOV.UK - MHRA authorises diabetes drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight management and weight loss
4. British Heart Foundation - Do weight loss injections reduce or increase your health risks?

5.https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/15481/smpc#about-medicine

7. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6015544/

6. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9687454/#sec2-biomolecules-12-01580title

What is Mounjaro, and How Does It Work for Weight Loss?

Mounjaro is an injectable medication designed to support weight loss in adults who are either clinically obese (BMI over 30) or overweight (BMI of 27 or higher with a weight-related health condition). It has been approved for use in the UK as a medical weight loss treatment.

The active ingredient in Mounjaro, tirzepatide, belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic the action of naturally occurring glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite. By slowing digestion and enhancing feelings of fullness, Mounjaro can help reduce calorie intake and support sustainable weight loss.

When used alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, Mounjaro has been shown to be an effective tool for managing obesity. 

What is the ‘Fifth Dose’ of Mounjaro, and Is It Safe?
Mounjaro is available as a pre-filled injection pen, which delivers a set number of doses. Some users have speculated about a so-called ‘fifth dose’ in the Mounjaro KwikPen, but here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Mounjaro’s Dosing Schedule
Mounjaro comes in various dose strengths, ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg, and is administered once a week. The standard dosing schedule is as follows:

Starting Dose: 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks
Titration (Adjustment) Phase: After 4 weeks, the dose may be increased gradually
Maintenance Dose: Typically 15 mg, but some patients may require lower doses due to side effects
The correct dose for you will be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. 

Why Do Some Patients Believe There’s a Fifth Dose?
Each Mounjaro KwikPen contains 3 ml of solution, with each injection delivering 0.6 ml per dose. This provides precisely four doses per pen. However, a small extra amount of liquid remains inside the pen after the four doses are used.

This leftover liquid is called a buffer and is included to ensure each injection delivers the correct amount of medication. Similar excess liquid can also be found in other GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic and Wegovy.

Some users attempt to extract an additional ‘fifth dose’ from their pen, believing it contains enough medication for an extra injection. However, this practice is not recommended due to the risks involved.

Is It Safe to Use the ‘Fifth Dose’ from a Mounjaro Pen?
No – using the leftover liquid as an additional dose is not safe.

Here’s why:

Inconsistent Dosage: The remaining liquid may not contain the correct concentration of medication, meaning you could receive too little or too much Mounjaro. This could reduce effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

Potential Pen Damage: Attempting to extract an extra dose could damage the pen’s mechanism, making it unusable and requiring the purchase of a new one.

Increased Risk of Side Effects: Mounjaro is carefully dosed to allow your body to adjust gradually. Taking an unmeasured extra dose could trigger stronger side effects, such as:

Nausea
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Constipation
Indigestion
For a full list of side effects, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet.

How to Take Mounjaro Safely
To get the best results from Mounjaro:
Follow the prescribed dosing schedule set by your doctor.
Use each pen for four doses only – do not attempt to extract a fifth dose.
Report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider.
Combine treatment with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

By sticking to the recommended guidelines, Mounjaro can help you achieve sustainable weight loss safely and effectively.

Start you Mounjaro assessment today.

References & Further Reading:
Mounjaro Official Website – www.mounjaro.com
Electronic Medicines Compendium (Mounjaro Patient Information Leaflet) – www.medicines.org.uk
NHS Guidelines on Obesity & Weight Management – www.nhs.uk