Continuing Mounjaro... Part 24

[Jimmyneutronsforehead]

Pointers for newbies:
Please note: Mounjaro will only be be prescribed initially if your BMI is above 30. If you have additional health conditions you can get the medication with a BMI 27. (Prediabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or heart problems)
Mumsnet does not allow promo codes. Please do not post any. If you want one, ask and someone will PM you a code or there are now threads on the promo page that have codes for Mounjaro link below:
Promo codes :
https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/promo-codes-bargains
For all threads so far, pointers for newbies, weightloss tracker, links to discount codes, tips and tricks and high protein recipes.
Site with all the info :
https://wattnext.notion.site/e880d9342b7a4bab94c244b34e0e5841?v=cc1edc3f1c2b41dab3011c8d9063df0a
Miss Mounjaro UK has the most up to date price comparison charts: https://www.missmounjarouk.com/

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO EVERYONE WHO MADE THEIR GOALS WHETHER THEY WERE SMALL GOALS OR BIG GOALS!

Health and safety information regarding the medication:

Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro® (tirzepatide), outlines several potential side effects associated with its use. Common side effects include:
- Nausea
Diarrhea
Decreased appetite
Vomiting
Constipation
Indigestion (dyspepsia)
Stomach (abdominal) pain
These gastrointestinal symptoms are typically mild to moderate and often diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
However, Mounjaro may also cause serious side effects, such as:
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis): Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe, persistent abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, with or without vomiting. - I want to personally add that not all pancreatic pain radiates to the back and can present a-typically in that it can just be present on the front or be hard to locate the source of pain.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): The risk increases when Mounjaro is used in combination with other medications that can cause hypoglycemia, such as sulfonylureas or insulin. Symptoms may include dizziness, sweating, confusion, headache, blurred vision, shakiness, rapid heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, hunger, weakness, and feeling jittery.
- Serious allergic reactions: Discontinue use and seek immediate medical help if you experience symptoms like swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting; or rapid heartbeat.
- Kidney problems (kidney failure): Dehydration resulting from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can worsen kidney issues. It's important to maintain adequate fluid intake to reduce this risk.
- Severe stomach problems: Inform your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent stomach issues.
- Changes in vision: Report any vision changes during treatment to your healthcare provider.
- Gallbladder problems: Symptoms may include pain in the upper stomach, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and clay-colored stools.
Eli Lilly emphasizes the importance of discussing any side effects with your healthcare provider, especially if they are bothersome or persistent. They also advise reporting side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or via the FDA MedWatch website.
For comprehensive information, refer to the Mounjaro prescribing information provided by Eli Lilly.

Please all remember that we aren't medical professionals and so if you do have questions about side effects it is important that you contact your supplier, as well as 111 or your GP as soon as possible.

Another side effect is hair loss, this is normal for anybody new to this discussion. I hope I can put your mind at ease. Our hair goes through 2 phases, the anagen stage, where it is active growth, and the telogen stage where the growth stops. Whenever your body is in a deficit, and is finding it's new equillibrium, your hair is likely to go into a telogen stage, and so an increased amount of hair shedding is to be expected.

Things that can help are making sure that your hair is nourished, and that you're using the right type of hairbrush for your hair so you aren't causing more breakage which then gives the appearance of more significant hair loss, as well as really making sure you're hitting your protein goals for the day.

Protein isn't the only important thing you need to focus on. You need fibre. Natural sources of fibre are going to be best as in vegetables and fruits, but if you have to supplement that's also fine. Fibre intake is important for bowel movement regulation, as Mounjaro does slow down the digestive system.

Lastly, make sure you're getting in enough liquid. It's very easy to dismiss thirst if your appetite is suppressed. It will stave off a lot of the headaches that are common with Mounjaro, keep you feeling your best, and will also help with any constipation you may be having.

Happy thread 24 everybody, and the first thread of 2025 in this series. It's wonderful having you all, and I can't wait to see what this month brings us all.

Thanks @QueenOfHiraeth

@Jimmyneutronsforehead there is def something in mj that helps pain and joints

@Porlocksehy not take 15 from 12.5 pen.

my 15 came from iq no issues and quickly

Evening all. I've had my phone call with oviva, and they've said I'd definitely only be offered wegovy, but they have also said they'll happily refer me with a strong recommendation for weight loss surgery back to my GP who was happy for me to take this route at the original appointment.

I don't know what this means for me going forward with continuing mounjaro until that point. I think I might stay on a low dose if the GP agrees until such a point but I'm not expecting weight loss results until then, just curbing my appetite.

I'm not really sure what the next steps are, so I'll keep this thread going until then, but if I am offered the surgery I'd be really grateful if someone else can take over these threads and keep the community going.

That's a bit of a mind-fuck @Jimmyneutronsforehead Lots of decisions to be made.
I'm not sure I'm around enough to be thread monitor but, hopefully, someone will be along soon to help if you need it

@QueenOfHiraeth They were really comprehensive in their questioning to be honest and I was really impressed with their screening procedure. I thought they were going to ask me for my national insurance number, debit card details, mothers maiden name and name of my first school the questioning went on so long.

But when we got to the nitty gritty they said given my only conditions are PCOS and autism, no sleep apnoea, diabetes, hypertension or heart disease they would only be offering me wegovy.

I explained that I'd already tried wegovy and I didn't even have appetite suppression on it, and I understand the average weight loss on semaglutide is somewhere around 6% body weight in trials compared to tirzepatide which was higher. They said seen as this is tier 3, its basically choosing which fork in the road I want to go down, one is the medical route and one is the surgical route, and if wegovy hasn't worked for me in the past then they'd support my decision to opt for the surgical route if they wanted to refer me back to GP care.

I've pre-empted it and sent an e-form to the GP to ask if a referral for surgery is possible before I throw all my eggs in one basket but my original phone call with the GP was "have you done the tier 2 weight management? Good, we can get in touch with bariatrics and place you on the surgical wait list if you'd like" to which I said I'm solo parenting at the moment and I can't risk the side effects of surgery. I'm still in that predicament, but I will be for a long time and I'm sure I could get family support for a short recovery period.

It's just bonkers to me that they would rather give me a surgery when the medication exists that I'm already paying for privately even though it's running me into the ground financially. I've also had many instances of medical sexism but the fact they won't recognise PCOS as a comorbidity for obesity and make it a criteria for mounjaro just takes the cake really.

@Jimmyneutronsforehead I think there is rarely good enough information and support regarding bariatrics (a bit of my worked touched on it for a while so I do have a bit of clinical knowledge of this) Rather like MJ, it is not a magic wand and needs a lot of patient input and commitment to be successful so I would make sure you get lots of info to weigh it all up.
If I was going down that pathway I would probably opt for bypass rather than sleeve as it is gives higher weight loss for fairly similar recovery time etc

Hope it's OK to keep posting here even if @Jimmyneutronsforehead needs to be elsewhere.

SW: 105kg bmi 34.3
CW: 87.1kg bmi 28.4
GW: 77kg bmi 24.9

Negatives: another bout of side effects this weekend which really wasn't pleasant, and I just sitting on the sofa recovering before girding loins to go to the footie.

Positives: a good exercise class or two, and tried on something size 16 on Wednesday (not challenging, elasticated waist) and it fitted.

Hi all!

Sorry I've been quiet lately. So much going on here my life is upside down.... but one thing that is constant is my MJ journey and this week marks 12 months for me! I'm 3 weeks into 10mg so still using the 'slow and steady' mantra!

I've just crossed the obese / overweight plateau so all my stats are green / amber! No more red!

I'll do a full update at next weigh in with the full update. I may start to titrate down when I get to 11 1/2 stone as that's my ideal weight. I want to find the sweet spot to use MJ to make sure everything is reset.

@InspectorGidget Yaaay! Well done!
We must have started similar time as I am about 2 weeks off from my anniversary and have also just crossed into overweight (woohoo!) although I am a bit heavier than you so, presumably, a bit taller.
I don't have the super-whizzo scales though and am older so assume my body composition is still that of a suet pudding
I don't know what my end goal is. To be a healthy BMI I would need to be below 11stone and I think I would look like a prune at my age so will stop before then but it's been so long since I was anywhere near this weight, I have no clue. I need to start building up weight training too

This thread has been very quiet lately, I suspect a lot have reached maintenance and moved on but it's good to see you still here too

Hi @QueenOfHiraeth

I think a lot of people hit target faster too and drop off the threads but would be nice if they came back and gave an update too.

I've stopped sharing my codes on the newbie threads as I've got a few with Zava now and if I decide to stay on for maintenance I'll switch to oushk I think.

I've enjoyed my pace too to be honest. I've been able to make the most out of my clothes and people are noticing more.

I'm the same re a healthy weight. I think it's under 10st for me which is a crazy thought. I really need to start toning now though!! I think I'll always qualify for MJ based on my bmi!!

Hi everyone, I don’t update very often but I keep up with the thread and thought seeing as it’s quieter I would! I am 11 months in now and I have lost just under 7st. I am still just over a stone away from my BMI dropping below 30, which was my initial goal, but I think I will keep going for a bit longer after that.

I’ve been spending a lot of time at the gym and I can see some definition now peeping out amongst the remaining flab! I don’t have any loose skin yet but I think it will be coming soon as the skin on my upper thighs and stomach is starting to look a bit wrinkly.

MJ has been life changing for me, there’s no way I would have stuck at it this long without it. I’m on 10mg now, I’ve moved up the doses slowly and have been lucky with side effects. I hope to be able to come off it though when I am ready.

Nice to see some updates. Well done @InspectorGidget on your progress.

I’ve gone down to 7.5 and have a 5mg pen so have titrated down. I’m a healthy BMI but not quite at my original target of 147lbs. Currently at 153lbs and have finally bought lots of new clothes in a size 12. I’m very happy to take this last stage slow and see where I end up. I plan to stay on 5mg for a while and then maybe try stopping. I moved to Oushk when MedExpress cut me off and so far so good.

I've still got a bigger than I’d like doughy stomach but I’m approaching my mid 40s and have had babies so maybe I just need to accept this. People have noticed my weight loss now which is a weird feeling. Could not have done it without this amazing medicine.

Hope you are all having a lovely bank holiday weekend 😁

Great to read the updates!

I've reached the top end of a healthy BMi, losing just over 4 stone in 11 months. As I'm older, I don't intend to lose any more despite the wobbly bits. Also, the weight i am now is the weight I was for my 20s and 30s (pregnancies excepted) so feels about right as I'm a stocky build.
Despite the weight similarity though, my body looks nothing like it did 20 years ago and, TBH, is a bit of a car crash. No bum but a wobbly tummy, flabby arms, fat ankles and still can't wear old rings. Wrinkly everywhere!
So now I'm hoping that there will be some improvement over time. Throughout I've been exercising including strength training, prioritising protein, hydrating and slathering myself in expensive lotions. If any of that made a difference, I dread to think what I'd have looked like without!
I'm with Oushk now. On 10mg, down from 12.5 and intending to slowly titrate down. Not sure when/if I'll come off completely.

I was a little sad when my usual threads went quiet as I enjoyed reading everyone's successes and feeling a part of a village supporting each other throughout this shared experience. It's nice to read updates from some familiar names this morning.

Yesterday morning I weighed in at 209.5, going just beyond my interim goal of 210 (15 stone). I was a little shocked and so happy to have reached another goal. I don't have an end goal yet as I'm not sure what is possible or right for my frame.

I'm starting to see real changes in my body and mobility. I will have lots of flab and loose skin that will remain with me. I think that's to be expected given my starting weight and height. Just sitting down to write this in Costa had me smiling. I automatically moved the table out to fit me, then realised I fit anyway. Losing 12 inches from my waist is making a difference.

Good luck to everyone still plodding on, as it does feel like a slow plod now. And congratulations to those who are nearing the end or have finished their journey.

That's fab @LucyBnotG and all.

I set my goal weight based purely on BMI. But I've heard from the friend who was on MJ before me that she really looked a bit gaunt at her original goal weight (I'd agree though I would never have said it at the time, her looks are up to her). So she's sitting about half a stone above a healthy BMI. I will see how I go with that as I get nearer.

@BellaCriesAndThatsAlright @Fromthesidelines @LucyBnotG
I'm reading all your stories of loss and am really pleased for you. Can you tell me what else you do apart from inject?
I'm on my second pen of 7.5 mg and only just losing very slowly (one pound this week!)
I've lost 8lb in total (3 inches off my waist) in 3.5 months
The suppression only started at 7.5mg - so 3 months in!! I've ordered a second of the same.
I'm exercising hard 3-5 times a week (eg an hour of body pump /Zumba classes/cycling) but its so slow. It is going down but I am jealous of the 4 stone+ losses in 6 months.
(my starting weight was 16st5). I can't excercise more without being knackered!! I'm eating a small lunch (2crackers with cheese and an apple) and a small portion (much smaller plate) in the evening.
Any hints please?

@Elboob
I don't think it is that unusual to have to go up to the higher doses to get an effect. One thing I've learned from reading these threads for the last year is how different everyone's experience is, so what works for me may not be the same for you.
In my own case, I never had the high suppression experienced by some, but neither have I had much in the way of side effects. Therefore I've been able to make sensible food choices but have always been able to eat. Losses have not been fast (average just over 1lb a week - but some weeks no loss at all and the biggest weekly loss was 3.5 lbs).
I've found that carbs, especially simple ones, cause my weight to stall even when in a calorie deficit so largely avoided them or kept them to a minimum. I have an eating window of 11 to 7. Lots of veg and protein (fish, chicken, tofu, pulses) and largely avoid UPFs. I batch cook so have plenty of options in the freezer. And drink plenty of water.
Now I'm maintaining, I'm having more carbs (brown rice, new potatoes., sourdough) but find I still have to be careful or the weight starts creeping back on again.
Good luck.

@Fromthesidelines thanks. Great information. I will cut out the carbs and up the protein.

@Elboob I had an appointment with a nutritionist when I started out. She told me to use a TDEE calculator, take 500 off that and aim for that in calories each day but, within that figure, aim for 100g protein and try to prioritise that. She explained it to me that the protein fires up metabolism and helps build muscle which fires it up more so the body responds differently to a 500cal meal with lots of protein to the same calories but carb-based
It sounds daft but are you eating enough? Of course we all lose weight by not eating but, in time, the body starts hanging onto everything if it thinks it is starving.

@Elboob I echo what @QueenOfHiraeth and @Fromthesidelines have said. Counting calories has been my main approach and have also subtracted 500 from my TDEE. I also make a real effort to drink more fluids. To make water interesting I often have sugar free squash in my second litre of the day as a treat.

I hope that finding your sweet spot of 7.5 helps to boost your losses and that you get into a good rhythm of losing regularly. I know it doesn't seem like much of a loss so far, but think how much you might have gained in those months if you were eating as before.

Have you noticed any NSVs during this time? Like improved mobility or not getting out of breath so quickly?

Hi, looking to restart MJ after a couple of months off. Previously I used Asda and they were reliable but seem really expensive compared to other suppliers. Not sure if I’m allowed to ask for supplier suggestions, but has anyone taken a break and started again with a different supplier? My BMI is overweight rather than obese so I’m not sure if anyone will allow me to start? Thanks!

@GlueNoGlue I can't find the name of the site to link it but there is a woman on Tiktok called Ails who runs a weight loss medication comparison site which has more filters on it, like who offers maintenance, etc. That might give you some pointers. Good luck

@Fromthesidelines @LucyBnotG and @QueenOfHiraeth thank you very much.
I think I've not been eating enough and the wrong things (like you said)
I've upped my protein and veg and dropped the carbs.
I definitely feel a lot fitter but I have simultaneously started a much more determined exercise routine (a mo th before starting mj, back in January). I'm hoping together I get the kick I need and I do feel lighter and more free.

I’m now trying to maintain on 7.5mg. Not getting much suppression and with Easter, work trips and visitors, it’s been though to keep the weight off. I was going to drop down to 5mg but I gained a little even with the 7.5mg so need to be more careful. Final BMI is around 26 which I’m ok with, but don’t want it to creep up again. Would be interested to hear from others who are trying to maintain

Hi all, hope you're doing well. Sorry I've been absent.

I've had my phone call for referring to bariatric surgery and I meet all the criteria so I've been referred. The doctor said to stop the WLI, but couldn't tell me how long the waiting list was to be assessed by bariatrics at the hospital.

I finished my last pen a while ago anyway and subsequently regained all my weight and then some so I won't be re-ordering.

I feel a bit sad. I really wished the WLI worked for me like it has worked for some.

My cousins girlfriend started after me, and lost 5 stone in what felt like a flash and she looks amazing and she didn't really change what she ate whereas it felt like I was living off of lettuce and chicken and would barely see the scales move. I hardly live a sedentary life, I might not make it to the gym everyday but I am always on my feet and it's a real treat for my bum to touch the sofa.

For the first time ever though on my call to the doctor I felt validated that my PCOS was playing a huge part in my inability to lose weight in a timely manner and that was reassuring, but I'm a bit scared now because it all feels like it is becoming too real and I'm having a lot of "what if this doesn't work" thoughts.

I am still a massive advocate for these drugs, and I'm really proud of all the progress updates and pictures everyone who has got to maintenence have posted.

I just want to wish everyone all the best on your journeys, and keep sticking to the safety guidelines for proper use. It's been lovely doing this with you all.

Good luck @Jimmyneutronsforehead and thanks for doing the threads, it's been lovely talking to you. It is so complex and impossible to know what the future holds. Wishing you all the best.