Continuing Mounjaro...part 14

[ObsidianTree]

Please note: Mounjaro will only be be prescribed initially if your BMI is above 30 until you get to a healthy BMI of 23 to BMI 25

Pointers for newbies:

1 - For taking your first dose you need to twist the pen a lot to get to 1! The instructions say prime each time you take a dose, but actually Eli Lilly have confirmed you only need to prime for the first ever use of a pen. (The video posted says every use, but this isn't true!)

2 - When injecting, hold down the button until the number goes back to 0. Once at 0, keep holding down the button and count to 5 with the needle still in so no medication is lost!

3 - Your first dose may not have an immediate effect. For some people the effects build slowly. It could take 3 or 4 days to notice anything, it could take a few weeks. Some people don't feel the meds working until they get to 5mg. See titration chart which shows how the medication builds up in your system. Also below you can plot the effect of your doses.
https://glp1plotter.com/

4 - 2.5mg isn't a therapeutic dose, meaning you aren’t meant to lose on 2.5mg. You need to start on 2.5mg to get your body used to the drug and gradually introduce it into your system and get used to any side effects.

5 - Not everyone loses a lot in the first few weeks. Don't feel discouraged if you don't lose a lot initially. Again, you might need a higher dose to start losing. Also, inches can be lost without anything showing on the scales. Start your journey by taking measurements and check them as you go along.

6 - If you do lose a lot in the first few weeks, please don't assume you will continue losing at this rate. The first few weeks it is usually water weight that is lost, after that a good weight loss is about 2lbs a week. Some weeks you might not lose anything, but this is ok too…again, taking measurements might show inches lost instead.

7 - Constipation, coldness, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, aches, are side effects. There may be other side effects also. Read info here :

www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/15481/pil#about-medicine

8 - Once you take your first dose you can choose to keep your pen in the fridge or somewhere else. It's up to you.

9 - Don't reuse any needles as this could risk infection. If you damage a needle or one isn't working, you can buy a pack of about 100 spares. https://www.chemist-4-u.com/carepoint-pen-needles-31g-4mm-pack-of-100?gclid=Cj0KCQjwiYOxBhC5ARIsAIvdH51rLZBVFQxuvS7mDJooegtK8BMiyT0PwREMRHhH_1atfQIo8TEbsmkaAkA0EALw_wcB

Also there is a 5th dose in each pen. To extract it you can either try a hard twist or use an insulin needle.
https://medbasic.co.uk/bd-micro-fine-30g-1ml-syringes-needles

10 - Protein is important as eating less protein can cause muscle wastage and hair loss. Try to have at least 100g a day.

Some natural sources of protein:
https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/best-sources-protein
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321522#high-protein-foods

11 - You can use supplements, some that people use are magnesium(for sleep and constipation), protein(to reduce muscle wastage), collagen (skin elasticity), aloe vera(for constipation), psylum husks(fibre for constipation), electrolytes.

12 - Drink lots of water. Water helps with the weight loss. Drink at least 2ltrs a day. Preferably 3ltrs.

13 - Don't be afraid to feel hungry. It is entirely normal and healthy to feel hungry. Just eat something. Treat it as an opportunity to start good habits around hunger. Eat a nice balanced snack or a meal if it's a meal time. It's ok.

14 - Does it makes any difference where you inject? yes it does! Drugs get absorbed at different rates depending on injection site

In order of fastest absorption, it goes:
• Tummy
• Arms
• Thighs
furthet reading about injection sites and the effects: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316618

15 - Abdominal side-effects are much easier to control with smaller meals. For example, having 4 small meals in the day vs 2 big meals can have an improvement in nausea and burps.

16 - You can track your calories / protein on apps such as My fitnessPal, Carb Manager or Nutracheck. Nutracheck is quite useful and easy to find foods /build recipes.

17 - Some of the places you can order from are:

Zava medical:
2.5mg £139, 5mg £139, 7.5mg £169, 10mg £189. 12.5mg £204. Zava offer refer a friend discount of 15% off. Ask for a code on here.

Simple online pharmacy:
£149 2.5mg, £149 5mg, £169 7.5mg £189 10mg

Bolt pharmacy:
2.5mg £149, 5mg £149. 7.5mg £169, 10mg £179, 12.5mg £199

MedExpress:
2.5mg and 5mg. £149.99. 7.5mg £169, 10mg £189. Coupon codes no longer working!

The Family Chemist:
2.5mg and 5mg £149. 7.5mg £169, 10mg £169, 12.5mg £194

Asda:
2.5mg and 5mg £179. 7.5mg £189, 10mg £189

There are others not listed.

18 - Worried about your supply being cut off when you get to a healthy BMI? Below is some info on some places maintenance plans.

MedExpress: Once at healthy BMI continue on maintenance dose for 6 months and then step down medication and monitor loss
The Family chemist :Would consult you as approached healthy BMI to discuss maintenance under close supervision
Curate: up to 2 years
Cloud: up to 2 years
Boots: Cut off at BMI 23
Asda: Cut off at a healthy BMI
Pharmacy2u: Will supply for maintenance
Bolt:Individual assessment once BMI 22
Zava:Once healthy BMI will stop prescribing this treatment

19 - If you want to switch suppliers, make sure you have pics of your Mounjaro box with your name and dose. This will come in useful when other suppliers ask for evidence.

1st thread:

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5007744-mourjano-starting-soon?page=1

2nd thread:

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5028495-continuing-murnjaropart-2?page=1

3rd thread:

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5037623-continuing-mounjaropart-3?page=1

4th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5044316-continuing-mounjaropart-4?page=1

5th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5048290-continuing-mounjaropart-5?page=1

6th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5057916-continuing-mounjaropart-6?page=1

7th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5062935-continuing-mounjaropart-7?page=1

8th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5068850-continuing-mounjaropart-8?page=1

9th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5074054-continuing-mounjaropart-9?page=1

10th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5080755-continuing-mounjaro-thread-10?page=1

11th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight_loss_chat/5085436-continuing-mounjaro-thread-11?page=1

12th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight-loss-injections/5090788-continuing-mounjaro-thread-12?page=1

13th thread:
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/weight-loss-injections/5096704-continuing-mounjaropart-13?page=1

Thread for newbies just starting out in June:

https://www.mumsnet.co
m/talk/weightlosschat/5082791-mounjaro-june-24-starters

Video on how to inject:

@PonyPatter44 I got into double figures today, you will definitely get there. Clothes sizes seem to change all of a sudden. I went from still wearing my size 24s to suddenly in a 20 and even a (large) 18. I've lost 20kg now, it'll happen.

4 weeks on 2.5 and total loss is 9lbs I'm very happy with this because besides the actual weight loss the NSVs make up for it such as no food noise and a calmed mind it's so nice I feel free.

Took bonus dose of 2.5mg tonight and the pen was acting up so ended up jabbing myself 3 times (changed needles for each jab) just to try get the full dose out but got it in the end.

im ordering the 5mg this week and going to do 2 weeks at 3.75mg.

@RagzRebooted - yes, I’ve had an honest ‘long-term-goal’/BMI target conversation with them and will be sticking with them as I know they’re happy with that, rather than switching providers. I did agonise over that a bit, seeing the prices other people are paying!

I’ve resigned myself to paying more over the long-term, but I have peace of mind and some confidence that they’re being careful and responsible and will see me through to target (they say they do this on a ‘case by case basis’). You don’t get instant approval with them with the first or subsequent orders, which I hope means their pharmacists taking their time to review responsibly!

@3wDavid Interesting. I ordered my 4th 2.5mg last week, no questions! Maybe it’s the extra tightening up that their doing? I planned on ordering another next week so maybe once I order I’ll email proactively to explain my decision?

I ordered with MedExpress again earlier. I know there are cheaper places but it means I don’t have to piss about sending photos and ID.

I tried the codes posted too and it’s important to note that they are for new users only

Does anyone have experience of delivery from Curate? I was approved on Friday and still not dispatched

NSV: Maybe aTMI, the water in the bath ran down around me, didn't pool behind me when emptying 😆

I don't touch the sides anymore 😁

Hi, I am another person who has been lurking for a while (on and off) and finding these threads very helpful to inform my decision to start and next steps. Thank you to all the regular posters!

I’ve lost 8kgs (SW 85.4kg) in the first 3 weeks on 2.5mg with minimal side effects but being careful about small, plain meals. The initial whoosh was big but settled into 1kg for last couple of weeks which feels sustainable. I’m now 31 BMI. Interim GW is 70kg and then will replan.

I’ve just switched from Voy to Bolt for the 5mg pen based on reviews here but my Bolt order is stuck at the ‘awaiting approval’ stage since Saturday. Have others experienced this? I haven’t seen it referenced yet but might have missed a post. I haven’t been asked for photos or evidence of my current prescription - just self disclosure of weight and height. They’ve taken payment though! I have messaged to ask for an update but can try the chatbot too if no response.

When I first signed up with Bolt they requested extra information via e mail - maybe check your junk mail.

Yes, me! I have multiple conditions, but as of next week I will be off my morphine completely for the first time in 15 years.

Tell your friend to go for it.

I'm really struggling to get my protein quota daily. Trying but failing to get 100g. Would be most grateful for tips and suggestions.

Clear whey protein if you're not already using it.

When mixed with water it's like drinking juice and there are loads of flavours to choose from.

20g of protein just from having a refreshing glass of juice! It's been a game changer for me as I've doubled up on those when I haven't been able to eat any more food.

This is helpful. I desperately need to do something to sort this stall out. Does anyone have any recommendations for any decent tasting ones? I only like peach squash!!

I see Myprotein does a tub for £20.

@AgathaMystery

I like the Tropical flavour from Perfuzion. It's a bit cheaper and slightly better macros than MyProtein.

I am not a big fan of their mango one.

Thanks I will have a look. I don’t like anything sweet so peach is the limit. Mango is my nemesis!

@AgathaMystery I like the grape one from my protein. Also quite like the strawberry kiwi and peach tea. I can send you a referral link that will give you £10 off your first order (and I'll also get £10 off my next one!)

thanks @blackfriyay that got me £30 a double order of pens. I'm stocked up on 5 & 7.5...so fully committed now.

Here is my code for 15% of Zava for anyone who needs it. I think they are the cheapest

There’s no better gift than the gift of good health. Use my code and you’ll get 15% off your first order at ZAVA: REFMW2TU
www.zavamed.com/uk/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=refer_a_friend
Maximum discount value: £30

I have had two orders go adrift from them.

They seem to dispatch via parcel 2u or something, and then it gets taken to a royal mail depot.
My first pen took about 5 days to come and I said I wasn't accepting it , so they sent a replacement.

The replacement then went via the same route, but sat in a Glasgow depot since Wednesday I till TODAY! I complained again and they said it's my remote location and cancelled my order. They are processing a refund.
The second pen seems cold enough, not chilled but not above room temp either, so I have ended up with 2 free pens and will just re order from Med express.....dearer but I know their deliveries get here.

I can't understand the Curate problem, I do live in a remotish area but never have delivery issues. Don't know why Curate had an issue twice.

I guess if you live in a non remote area, they are a decent price and I was quite impressed by their communication when I contacted them.

They just need to sort out their postage.

@spottydogsarethebest @AgathaMystery I use a lot of the myprotein clear whey and it's definitely increased my protein levels (from what my fancy scales tell me).

Lots of us on here have discount codes if you need one, but note that Boots often have the small tubs on their £10 Tuesday offers. So if you just want to try a small tub without paying delivery then that might be a good option. I did this so I could try the Vimto flavoured one as it worked out cheaper to buy from Boots (it's really strong and needs watering down a lot!).

I love the raspberry lemonade and the cranberry & raspberry. Also, make sure you have a decent shaker to make them with.

for the first time ever, while on MJ, I have been paying attention to and prioritizing protein! I average between 100-120 grams per day. I get it in the following way:

1. morning protein/banana milkshake: 35 grams of protein (I make it myself - I use Dose & Co vanilla protein collagen powder, a banana and then I have been bumping it further by using Alpro Soya Protein Milk). This is my breakfast and I find it very satisfying and filling.
2. lunch: either a bagel (protein bagel, cottage cheese and turkey slices): 20 grams of protein; or a wrap (protein wrap, hummus, prawns, iceberg lettuce): 24 g of protein; or a salad with grilled chicken or turkey: 45 grams of protein.
3. dinner: usually some iteration of the salad with grilled chicken: 45 g of protein
4. dessert: I used to have a massive sweet tooth, now I am really not bothered, but when I feel like having a treat I go for either a protein pudding (GetPro are YUMMY!): 18 g of protein; or for a protein bar (my fav are Fulfill): 14 g of protein.

I do a variation of these options usually, as I actually really enjoy them, and my protein intake is never less than 100 grams, and sometimes as high as 150 grams for the day!

Do the clear protein drinks have sweeteners in them ?

.

Today marks exactly 30 days still starting on my MJ journey and I’m amazed that I am 9 kg / stone and a half down! I am continuing on the 2.5 mg, as for now I see no need to move up.

SW: 107.2 kg
CW: 98.1 kg
GW 1: 90 kg
GW 2: 85 kg
GW 3: 75 kg

I do not have a diabetes or pre-diabetes diagnosis but I occasionally track my waking glucose. Have been remembering to do it most mornings over the last fortnight (started mj 3 weeks ago). It was previously always in the 'pre diabetes' zone and even sometimes in the red, no matter what/when/if I ate the day before. Am fascinated at the effect mj seems to be having on it - and so quickly too.
Bit of a long shot, but is anyone else tracking blood sugar without a type 2 diagnosis and seeing similar?