Weight Loss

How Mounjaro (tirzepatide) works

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It works by mimicking two naturally occurring gut hormones — GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) — that are released after eating. Together, these hormones: - Signal to your brain that you are full, reducing appetite - Slow gastric emptying, helping you feel satisfied for longer - Improve blood sugar regulation Mounjaro is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. It is prescribed as part of a structured treatment programme and is most effective when combined with dietary changes and increased physical activity.

How semaglutide works

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which is released naturally after eating, to: - Reduce appetite and food intake - Slow the rate at which your stomach empties - Help regulate blood sugar levels Wegovy is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. As with Mounjaro, it is most effective as part of a comprehensive programme that includes lifestyle adjustments.

Weight loss dosing schedule

Weight management medications are introduced at a low starting dose to minimise side effects, with the dose increasing gradually over time as your body adjusts. Mounjaro (tirzepatide) — dosing schedule: Month 1: 2.5 mg (introductory dose) Month 2: 5 mg (auto-escalation, with patient opt-out available) Month 3 onwards: Patient-directed — escalate via app check-in at any time The 2.5 mg starting dose is an introductory phase. The principal clinical doses studied in trials are 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg. Patients are moved to 5 mg at the start of month two unless they opt out during onboarding. From month two onwards, dose increases are patient-initiated via a check-in in the Evernu app. You will receive a monthly prompt. If you do not respond to check-ins for 6 months, your treatment will be reviewed and may be paused.

Side effects — weight loss medication

The most commonly reported side effects with GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 medications are gastrointestinal in nature and typically reduce as your body adjusts to the medication. Common side effects: - Nausea - Vomiting - Diarrhoea - Constipation - Abdominal discomfort or bloating These are most likely to occur when starting treatment or after a dose increase, and usually settle within a few weeks. Managing side effects: - Eat smaller, more frequent meals - Avoid high-fat, rich, or spicy foods during the adjustment period - Stay well hydrated - Do not eat immediately before your injection When to contact us: If you experience severe or persistent side effects, or any of the following, contact our clinical team immediately: - Severe or persistent abdominal pain - Signs of a severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing, rash) - Symptoms of pancreatitis (severe pain radiating to your back) - Rapid heart rate - Vision changes You can log side effects directly in the Evernu app, which will flag any clinically significant symptoms to our team.

Hair loss and finasteride — important information