Can I stay on 2.5mg of Mounjaro for weight loss?

All medical information is reviewed by our clinical partners at MedicOnline.

Dr. Jahan Khan, CMO @ MedicOnline. IMC 409788

Can I stay on 2.5mg of Mounjaro for weight loss?

This is a question many patients have, especially if they are feeling good on the 2.5mg dose or are nervous about side effects.

The short answer is that the 2.5mg dose of Mounjaro is not intended as a long-term dose for weight loss. Below, we explain this in more detail.

1. It Is a "Starter" or "Titration" Dose

The 2.5mg dose is prescribed for the first four weeks for a very specific reason: tolerability.

Its main purpose is to introduce the medication to your body slowly. This helps to minimise the common gastrointestinal side effects (like nausea) that can occur. It is considered a "non-therapeutic" dose, meaning it is not the dose at which significant weight loss is expected.1

2. The Clinical Trial Doses

The major clinical trials for Mounjaro (like the SURMOUNT-1 study) found that significant weight loss occurred at the higher maintenance doses of 5mg, 10mg, and 15mg.

To achieve the clinical results, the plan involves "titrating" (escalating) the dose, typically moving to 5mg after the first four weeks.

To achieve the clinical results, the plan involves "titrating" (escalating) the dose, typically moving to 5mg after the first four weeks.

This Is a Decision for Your Doctor

This is where a doctor-led programme is essential. Your journey is individual.

While some people do lose weight on the 2.5mg dose, the standard, evidence-based treatment plan involves moving up to the 5mg dose to see a proper therapeutic effect.

At Bua Health, your treatment is managed by an IMC-registered doctor from our clinical partner, MedicOnline. They will monitor your progress and your side effects. If you are experiencing side effects or have concerns, you can discuss this with them. Our unlimited support is designed for these exact situations, allowing you to ask clinical questions at any time.

Your doctor will work with you to find the dose that provides the best balance of effectiveness and tolerability for your personal journey.

Ready to start your assessment?

At Bua Health, our clinical partners MedicOnline are committed to the highest standards of patient safety. We make it easy to transfer your care from other providers - be that your local GP or another digital-first clinic. It all starts with a free online eligibility assessment.

References

1. Jastreboff, A. M., et al. (2022). Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. The New England Journal of Medicine, 387(3), 205-216.

2. European Medicines Agency (EMA). (n.d.). Mounjaro (Tirzepatide): Summary of Product Characteristics.

3.