One in five adults in the UK now lives with either diabetes or pre-diabetes — that is over 12 million people. Managing type 2 diabetes often means tackling two challenges simultaneously: keeping blood sugar within safe limits and dealing with excess weight. Mounjaro injections are one of the newer treatments being explored for both. Our pharmacists explain how Mounjaro works, what benefits it may offer, and what important considerations you should know if you are considering it.
What are Mounjaro injections?
Mounjaro is a prescription injection that contains tirzepatide. It was originally developed for type 2 diabetes treatment and is now also licensed in the UK for weight management in adults who meet certain BMI criteria. Unlike older treatments that target just one pathway, Mounjaro works in a dual way, which may explain why it shows promise for both blood sugar and weight control.
Mounjaro for diabetes treatment
Mounjaro is licensed in the UK for adults with type 2 diabetes. It is usually recommended when other treatments, such as metformin, are not enough to keep blood sugar within safe limits.
Mounjaro for blood sugar control
Research shows that Mounjaro can lower HbA1c levels more effectively than some other commonly used medicines. Lower HbA1c means better long-term management and a reduced risk of complications like kidney or eye disease.
How does Mounjaro work?
Mounjaro mimics the action of two natural hormones in the body: GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones help regulate blood sugar and appetite. By acting on both, Mounjaro may provide stronger effects compared with medicines that act on just one.
Supporting insulin response
When you eat, Mounjaro encourages your pancreas to release insulin at the right time, which helps bring blood sugar levels down after meals.
Slowing digestion
It also slows how quickly food leaves the stomach. This means sugar from food enters the bloodstream more gradually, avoiding sudden spikes.
Reducing appetite
Many people report feeling fuller for longer when using Mounjaro weight loss injections, which can make it easier to eat less without feeling deprived.
What are the benefits of Mounjaro injections?
The benefits of Mounjaro injections go beyond lowering blood sugar. Clinical trials suggest that many people also lose a meaningful amount of weight, which is important since excess weight makes diabetes harder to manage.
Key Mounjaro benefits reported in studies
- Improved blood sugar control (lower HbA1c levels)
- Noticeable weight loss compared with other diabetes medicines
- Lower risk of heart-related complications in ongoing studies
- Weekly injection rather than daily tablets, which may be more convenient
Are there side effects to consider?
Like all prescription medicines, Mounjaro can cause side effects. The most common include nausea, diarrhoea, and reduced appetite. These often improve with time, but some people may need adjustments or monitoring. Rare but more serious effects include inflammation of the pancreas or gallbladder issues.
Our pharmacists can discuss your medical history and help you understand whether this treatment is suitable.
Is Mounjaro right for you?
Mounjaro may be considered if you have type 2 diabetes and your current treatment is not providing enough blood sugar control, especially if weight is also a concern. It is not suitable for everyone, and eligibility depends on individual health factors.
Book your appointment with a Touchwood Pharmacy pharmacist today and get personalised advice on whether Mounjaro injections are the right option for your blood sugar control and weight goals.
FAQs about Mounjaro Injections
How quickly can Mounjaro injections start lowering blood sugar?
Many people notice improvements in blood sugar within the first few weeks of treatment. HbA1c levels usually show significant changes after around 3 months, which is the standard time frame used in clinical monitoring.
Do Mounjaro weight loss injections work if you do not have diabetes?
Yes. In the UK, Mounjaro is licensed for weight management in adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 and above with a weight-related condition, even if they do not have diabetes.
What makes Mounjaro different from other diabetes injections?
Unlike many other diabetes medicines that target just one hormone, Mounjaro acts on both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual action supports stronger blood sugar control and may lead to greater weight reduction compared with single-action treatments.
Can Mounjaro help if other diabetes medicines are not working?
Yes, Mounjaro is often considered when standard treatments such as metformin or sulphonylureas are not enough to keep blood sugar at safe levels. It can be added to existing treatment plans or used alone, depending on individual needs.
Are the weight loss effects of Mounjaro permanent?
Weight loss with Mounjaro depends on continued use alongside healthy eating and activity. If treatment is stopped, appetite and blood sugar may return to previous levels, so long-term management is important.
Who should avoid Mounjaro injections?
Mounjaro may not be suitable for people with a history of pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or certain thyroid conditions. A pharmacist consultation is essential to check suitability before starting treatment.
