Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro 10mg?


  • Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro 10mg?
  • Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro 15 mg
  • Why am I not losing weight on mounjaro 12.5 mg
  • Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro 5mg ?
  • Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro 2.5 mg ?
  • Why am I still hungry on Mounjaro 5mg?
  • How do I maximize my weight loss in Mounjaro?
why am i not losing weight on mounjaro 15 mg

Mounjaro miracle drug?

Mounjaro has taken the weight-loss world by storm, hailed by many as a miracle drug. Social media platforms like TikTok are flooded with success stories—people claiming they’re shedding pounds effortlessly while eating whatever they want.

Intrigued, I began following these users, reading their comments, and observing their journeys. Some of them are literally an affiliate of GLP-1 company. Price is published and anyone who will comment to any video or Threads it will receive a message with the price and from where can be ordered. Therefore, I don’t know how genuine some of these people are.

Do they really struggle with their weight, do they take this weight loss injections? who knows?

Spending money, time, facing side effects, food noise, frustration.

Losing weight is not easy and straightforward process. Lets make this clear: there is not one size fits all, its not about only calories restriction and moving more.

why am i not losing weight on mounjaro 10mg

This cross-sectional study aimed to describe the content of the first 100 video results under the hashtag #Ozempic on TikTok. Videos extracted from TikTok were primarily uploaded by consumers and viewed ∼ 70 million times. 

According to Mor et al (2024)1 who tackled Pharmaceutical industry promotional activities on social media concluded

Misinformation & Ethical Risks: Poor-quality, biased health information dominates social media promotions, often exaggerating benefits and downplaying harms, with viewers unaware of risks. Ethical violations (e.g., misleading ads) persist despite regulations.

Call for Transparency & Regulation: Strengthen policies to enforce accurate disclosures, balanced risk/benefit representation, and curb influencer marketing’s unchecked impact on consumer health choices.

Definitely people who are struggling with weight loss takes Mounjaro, Ozempic, Wegovy weight loss injections, and some of them are struggling with side effects. However, among the success stories, there’s a different reality: many individuals on Mounjaro aren’t experiencing the dramatic results they expected. Some have hit frustrating plateaus, while others have stopped the medication due to side effects or its high cost.

I’ve spoken to people who, after undergoing bariatric surgery, considered trying Ozempic or Mounjaro to combat post-surgery weight regain. Many gastric sleeve patients, despite their initial weight loss, found themselves struggling again, questioning whether these medications could be the solution they were looking for.

Experiencing challenges with weight loss while on Mounjaro (tirzepatide) can be frustrating. Let’s address your concerns and provide insights to help optimize your weight loss journey.

While Mounjaro can be an effective tool for weight loss, its long-term use should be tailored to the individual’s needs, health status, and ability to maintain lifestyle changes. Regular consultations with healthcare providers are essential to determine the most appropriate strategy for sustained weight management.

Is Mounjaro for diabetes and weight loss?

GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are gaining attention for their effects on obesity and diabetes. If you’re diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, you’ve likely been prescribed metformin as an initial treatment. When starting a GLP-1 medication, you may question whether to continue taking metformin.

Mounjaro is one of several GLP-1 medications available for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes. Its active component, tirzepatide, is distinct among GLP-1 medications due to its dual-action nature, functioning as both a GLP-1 and GIP combination drug.

GIP, or Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide, is produced in the small intestine. Similar to GLP-1, this incretin hormone promotes insulin secretion and can reduce hunger while increasing satiety. It also contributes to fat metabolism and can assist with weight management.

Mounjaro, the tirzepatide medication, has received FDA approval specifically for Type 2 Diabetes treatment.

  1. Mechanism: Tirzepatide is a dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, which enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite.
  2. FDA Approval2:
    • Type 2 Diabetes: Mounjaro (tirzepatide) was first approved in May 2022 for glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
    •  The FDA approved tirzepatide injections for weight management under the brand name Zepbound. 
    • Weight Loss: While not yet FDA-approved specifically for obesity, the SURMOUNT-1 trial (2022) demonstrated its efficacy for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals, leading to anticipated expanded indications.
    • Off-Label Weight Loss: Many clinicians prescribe Mounjaro off-label for obesity based on SURMOUNT-1 data.
    • Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is no longer in clinical trials in the UK. It has completed pivotal trials and received regulatory approvals for both type 2 diabetes and weight management

Key Takeaways

  • Mounjaro is used for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss.
  • Dosage effectiveness and side effects vary among individuals.
  • Discuss costs and health impacts with a healthcare provider.

Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro 10 mg (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 15 mg)?

People are starting with a low dose and starting gradually to increase the dose; however, I have received multiple questions regarding not seeing any changes despite of the injection dosages.

Is there any medical reason why I am not losing weight?

Several factors might contribute to limited weight loss on Mounjaro:

  • Caloric Intake: Even with appetite suppression, consuming more calories than you expend can hinder weight loss. It’s essential to maintain a caloric deficit.
  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise complements the effects of Mounjaro. A sedentary lifestyle may impede progress.
  • Medication Adherence: Inconsistent use or incorrect dosing can reduce effectiveness.
  • Individual Variability: Genetics, metabolism, medication, hormonal changes, thyroid issues and other underlying health conditions can influence weight loss outcomes.

Is it possible for Mounjaro not to work? Mounjaro not working anymore

Yes, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) may fail to induce weight loss in some individuals due to hormonal imbalances or medication interactions.

Here are 6 hormonal/metabolic reasons:


1. GLP-1/GIP Receptor Resistance

  • Genetic polymorphisms or chronic obesity may downregulate GLP-1/GIP receptors, reducing tirzepatide’s ability to suppress appetite or slow gastric emptying.
  • GLP-1 resistance is observed in insulin-resistant states (e.g., PCOS, metabolic syndrome) .
  • Medication InterferenceCorticosteroids (e.g., prednisone) counteract GLP-1 signaling via glucocorticoid receptor activation .

2. Hypothyroidism

  • Low thyroid hormone (T3/T4) slows basal metabolic rate (BMR), negating calorie deficits required for weight loss.
  • Even with appetite suppression, weight loss stalls if BMR drops significantly .
  • Medication InterferenceLevothyroxine underdosing or poor adherence worsens metabolic slowdown .

3. Hypercortisolism (Chronic Stress/Cushing’s)

  • Excess cortisol promotes visceral fat storage, insulin resistance, and muscle catabolism, countering tirzepatide’s effects.
  • Cortisol blunts GLP-1-induced satiety and increases hedonic eating .
  • Medication InterferenceExogenous glucocorticoids (e.g., hydrocortisone) mimic hypercortisolism .

4. Leptin Resistance

  • Leptin receptor dysfunction in obesity prevents the brain from sensing satiety, despite tirzepatide’s appetite suppression.
  • Patients remain hyperphagic despite medication .
  • Medication InterferenceAtypical antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine) worsen leptin resistance via hypothalamic inflammation .

5. Hyperinsulinemia

  • Severe insulin resistance (e.g., type 2 diabetes) causes compensatory hyperinsulinemia, promoting fat storage and blocking lipolysis.
  • Tirzepatide’s insulin sensitization may be insufficient in advanced cases
  • Medication InterferenceSulfonylureas (e.g., glimepiride) exacerbate hyperinsulinemia .

6. Androgen Excess (PCOS/Adrenal)

  • High testosterone or DHEA-S in PCOS/adrenal hyperplasia drives visceral adiposity and insulin resistance, overriding tirzepatide’s effects.
  • Androgen excess reduces GLP-1 receptor expression in adipose tissue
  • Medication InterferenceProgestins (e.g., medroxyprogesterone) worsen androgen-mediated metabolic dysfunction .

Solutions

  • Testing: Screen for thyroid dysfunction (TSH, free T4), cortisol (24-hour urine), leptin, and androgens (testosterone, DHEA-S).
  • Adjust Medications: Replace sulfonylureas with SGLT2 inhibitors, minimize glucocorticoids, and optimize thyroid therapy.
  • Combination Therapy: Add metformin (improves insulin sensitivity) or spironolactone (reduces androgens) as needed.

Work with an endocrinologist to address these barriers!

Why is my Mounjaro not working for weight loss?

If Mounjaro doesn’t seem effective:

  • Dosage: The initial dose (e.g., 2.5 mg) is often for acclimatization. Higher doses may be necessary for significant weight loss.
  • Plateaus: Weight loss plateaus are common. The body may adapt, requiring adjustments in diet or activity levels.
  • Lifestyle Factors: Diet quality, sleep, and stress management play crucial roles. Relying solely on medication without lifestyle changes may limit results.

Why am I still feeling hungry on Mounjaro ?

Why am I still hungry on Mounjaro 5mg?

Possible reasons include:

  • Dosage Insufficiency: The 5 mg dose may not be adequate for appetite suppression in some individuals.
  • Tolerance Development: Over time, the body might adapt, reducing the medication’s effectiveness.
  • Diet Composition: Consuming foods with low satiety can lead to persistent hunger.

Discussing dosage adjustments and dietary strategies with a healthcare provider it is important.

We are happy to help!

What happens when you stop Mounjaro for weight loss?

Upon discontinuation:

  • Appetite Increase: Hunger levels may return to baseline.
  • Weight Regain: There’s a risk of regaining lost weight, especially without sustained lifestyle changes.
  • Blood Sugar Levels: For those with diabetes, blood sugar control may be affected.

How do I maximize my weight loss on Mounjaro?

To enhance weight loss:

  • Balanced Diet: Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, and fiber-rich vegetables, including supplements
  • Regular Exercise: Incorporate both aerobic and strength-training activities.
  • Hydration: Adequate water intake supports metabolism.
  • Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
  • Stress Management: Techniques like meditation or yoga can help.
  • Supplements to help burning fat and control cravings.

Consistency in these areas complements the effects of Mounjaro.

How many calories should you eat on Mounjaro?

Caloric needs vary based on factors like age, gender, activity level, and weight goals. A common approach is to consume 500 calories less than your daily maintenance needs to achieve a safe weight loss of about 1 pound per week. Consulting with a nutritionist can provide personalized guidance.

Can you take a break from Mounjaro?

Taking a break isn’t typically recommended:

  • Weight Regain: There’s potential for weight regain during the hiatus.
  • Side Effects: Upon resumption, side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort may reoccur.

Always consult with a healthcare provider before making changes to your medication regimen.

Mounjaro withdrawal symptoms

While not associated with traditional withdrawal symptoms, stopping Mounjaro can lead to:

  • Increased Appetite: Return of previous hunger levels.
  • Weight Gain: Potential to regain lost weight.
  • Blood Sugar Variations: Especially pertinent for individuals with diabetes

How long does it take for Tirzepatide to suppress appetite?

Onset of Appetite Suppression:

  • Immediate Effects: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite shortly after their first dose of tirzepatide. This is due to the medication’s action on hormones that regulate hunger.
  • Gradual Effects: In clinical studies, significant appetite reduction was observed over time. For instance, a study published in Diabetes Care noted that participants reported reduced appetite scores at week 28 of treatment. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Factors Influencing Appetite Suppression:

  • Dosage: Higher doses of tirzepatide have been associated with more pronounced appetite suppression. However, the appropriate dosage should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and tolerability.
  • Individual Variability: Responses to tirzepatide can vary. Some individuals may notice immediate changes in appetite, while others might experience gradual effects over several weeks.

Conclusion:

While some individuals may experience appetite suppression soon after starting tirzepatide, significant effects are typically observed over several weeks of consistent use. It’s essential to maintain regular communication with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to the medication and make any necessary adjustments.

Key Takeaways for People Struggling to Lose Weight on Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

If you’re not seeing results with Mounjaro, strict adherence to the SURMOUNT-1 trial’s lifestyle protocol is critical. Here’s what worked in the trial for 20.9% average weight loss at the highest dose:


1. Non-Negotiable Lifestyle Components

  • 500 Calorie/Day Deficit:
    • Calculate your baseline calorie needs (e.g., 2,000 kcal/day → aim for 1,500 kcal/day).
  • Balanced Diet:
    • 50% Carbs: Focus on whole grains, vegetables, and legumes (avoid refined sugars).
    • 20% Protein: Prioritize lean sources (chicken, fish, tofu) at every meal.
    • 30% Fats: Healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil.
  • Fiber-Rich Foods: Aim for 25–30g/day (e.g., oats, chia seeds, broccoli) to enhance satiety.

2. Exercise Requirements

  • 150+ Minutes/Week of Activity: Brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
  • Add Resistance Training: 2x/week to preserve muscle mass (key for maintaining metabolism).

3. Professional Support

  • Monthly Counseling: Trial participants had dietitian/healthcare coaching to troubleshoot plateaus and improve adherence.
  • Hydration & Electrolytes: Prevent dehydration (a risk for kidney issues) with 8–10 glasses of water daily + electrolyte-rich foods (e.g., bananas, spinach).

It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before stopping the medication.

Mounjaro side effects thyroid. Mounjaro side effect cancer

Recently I have noticed that threads on Threads Instagram.

Despite of official reports, people complaints of various side effects.

mounjaro side effects thyroid

Thyroid C-Cell Risks in Rodents:

Mounjaro caused thyroid tumors (C-cell hyperplasia/adenomas) in mice/rats at high doses.

Human relevance remains unclear—no confirmed cases of thyroid cancer (MTC) in clinical trials.

Human Data Insights:

  • Calcitonin Levels: Small, non-clinical increases observed in trials, but within normal range.

Thyroid Dysfunction:

  • Hypothyroidism: 1.2% vs. 0.8% (placebo)—not statistically significant.
  • Hyperthyroidism: Rare (0.3%), no causal link to Mounjaro.

🚫 Contraindications:

Avoid in patients with personal/family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or MEN2 syndrome.

Not recommended if baseline calcitonin is elevated (>50 ng/L).

🔍 Monitoring Guidelines:

No routine calcitonin checks unless symptoms arise (e.g., neck swelling, difficulty swallowing).

Screen for thyroid cancer risk factors before prescribing.

Long-Term Safety Unknowns:

Mounjaro is relatively new (FDA-approved in 2022), so long-term side effects remain unclear.

Did You Know?
Could Semaglutide Face Bans Over Unproven Suicide Risks?
(Lessons from History: Sibutramine & Rimonabant)

Two groundbreaking weight-loss drugs—sibutramine (appetite suppressant) and rimonabant (endocannabinoid blocker)—were pulled from global markets in the 2010s after reports of suicidality and depression in patients. Despite their efficacy, regulators prioritized caution over unclear causality:

  • Obesity and depression often coexist, creating a chicken-or-egg dilemma: Does the drug worsen mental health, or does untreated depression heighten risks in vulnerable populations?
  • Neither drug had conclusive proof of direct harm, but the mere association triggered bans, depriving patients of effective tools.

Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) now faces similar scrutiny. Recent case reports link GLP-1 agonists to suicidal ideation, prompting EU and WHO investigations.

Long-term data is still emerging.

Like all medications, it may carry unforeseen risks over time. Stay informed, follow contraindications, and prioritize symptom monitoring.

Mounjaro for weight loss cost

Mounjaro cost per month UK

The monthly cost of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) varies depending on the country, dosage, and provider.

In the UK, the price is influenced by whether it is purchased privately or via a prescription. Private costs may result in higher out-of-pocket expenses compared to using the NHS. Patients may need to consider supplemental expenses like consultation fees or additional health check-ups.

For those not covered by insurance or NHS, budgeting for Mounjaro involves more factors, including consistent prescription refills. It is recommended that individuals speak with healthcare providers to understand the long-term financial commitments required for treatment as these costs can add up over time.

Below is a table summarizing the approximate monthly costs in the United States and the United Kingdom

CountryDosageApproximate Monthly CostNotes
United StatesAll$1,069.08The list price for a one-month supply of Mounjaro is $1,069.08, regardless of dosage. Actual prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and any available discounts or insurance coverage. pricinginfo.lilly.com
United Kingdom2.5 mg£179Prices for Mounjaro in the UK start from £179 per month for the 2.5 mg dose. Costs increase with higher dosages. onlinedoctor.asda.com

Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on the pharmacy, location, and any applicable discounts or insurance coverage. It’s advisable to consult with local pharmacies or healthcare providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

Do You Have to Take Mounjaro Forever?

The necessity of continuing Mounjaro indefinitely varies among individuals and depends on several factors:

  1. Weight Maintenance: Clinical studies have shown that discontinuing Mounjaro after significant weight loss can lead to weight regain. For instance, a study published in JAMA found that participants who stopped tirzepatide treatment regained a portion of the weight they had lost during the treatment period.
  2. Lifestyle Modifications: Integrating sustainable lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular physical activity, is crucial. These habits can help maintain weight loss achieved during Mounjaro therapy and may reduce the need for long-term medication use.
  3. Individual Response: Some individuals may find that after reaching their weight loss goals, they can maintain their new weight without continued use of Mounjaro, especially if they have successfully adopted healthy lifestyle habits.
mounjaro appetite suppression wearing off

Maintenance Therapy: Continuing Mounjaro at a maintenance dose after achieving weight loss goals may help prevent weight regain. The appropriate duration of maintenance therapy should be personalized and discussed with a healthcare provider.

Role of Nutrition in Mounjaro Therapy

Nutrition plays a critical role in maximizing the benefits of Mounjaro for weight loss and metabolic health. A high-protein, fiber-rich diet helps maintain satiety, stabilize blood sugar, and support muscle retention. Avoiding processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive refined carbohydrates can enhance Mounjaro’s appetite-suppressing effects. Hydration and mindful eating are also key to long-term success.

Conclusion
Mounjaro can be an effective tool for weight loss, but sustainable success depends on long-term dietary and lifestyle changes. Proper nutrition, regular physical activity, and ongoing medical guidance can help achieve and maintain weight loss, whether on or off the medication.

  1. Mor, J., Kaur, T., Menkes, D.B., Peter, E. and Grundy, Q., 2024. Pharmaceutical industry promotional activities on social media: a scoping review. Journal of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research15(4), p.rmae022. ↩︎
  2. FDA Prescribing Info for Mounjaro (2023). ↩︎

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Madelena Tapliga
Madelena Tapliga

MSc Clinical Nutritionist, accredited Nutritionist of UK from Association for Nutrition (AfN)
Clinical Lead
Herbal Medicine
MLD therapy My specialities: Malnutrition (diet advice weight gain), Weight management, bariatric surgery recovery and lifestyle advices, recovery post surgery, gastrointestinal and colorectal health, type2 diabetes, food sensitivities, food intolerances, skin health, family and meal planning, nutrient deficiencies, thyroid disorders, IBO, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Hypochlorhydria (low acid gastric), Immune system, Arthritis, vgetarian and vegan diets, mindfulness eating, stress management, recipe developer, personalised nutrition. Intermittent Fasting, evidence based nutrition, sounds therapy, manual lymphatic drainage .

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