Getting started with weight loss medications

While many people think of medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro as new, the class of medication that they belong to were originally developed as a type 2 diabetes treatment. The first medication was FDA-approved in 2005 and licensed for use in the UK in 2007. Researchers discovered that these drugs not only helped regulate blood sugar but also led to significant weight loss. Over time, newer GLP-1 treatments like liraglutide (Saxenda) and semaglutide (Wegovy) were specifically approved for obesity management.

GLP-1s work in the body by affecting multiple organs. They help to regulate appetite, metabolism, and fat storage.

This means that Mounjaro mimics two incretin hormones instead of just one. GIP also enhances insulin secretion after you eat and reduces appetite, which increases the effectiveness of Mounjaro.

Appetite suppression: Your treatment activates receptors in parts of the brain called the hypothalamus and brainstem to reduce your appetite and increase feelings of fullness. It also works on the dopamine dependent systems in the brain, reducing the desire to snack by reducing the rewarding effects.

This helps to reduce “food noise” which is an informal term which describes the feeling of constant food-focused thoughts, such as what to eat, when to eat, and how much to eat.

Slows digestion: Your medication slows down the rate at which food leaves your stomach, helping you stay fuller for longer.

Blood sugar regulation: After eating, your treatment enhances insulin secretion from your pancreas, helping to control blood sugar levels. Mounjaro also increases insulin sensitivity, which means your cells can respond more effectively to insulin. When cells respond effectively to insulin, they efficiently take up glucose from the bloodstream and help to keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range to reduce cravings.

This short video addresses the key differences between Wegovy and Mounjaro, as well as the benefits and considerations of each.

Mounjaro contains the active ingredient tirzepatide, which mimics two naturally occurring hormones in your body, GLP-1 and GIP. These hormones are released after you eat to help manage blood sugar levels and appetite. They tell your body to release insulin when needed, slow the rate food leaves your stomach, and help you feel fuller for longer. By mimicking both GLP-1 and GIP hormones, Mounjaro helps support steady blood sugar control and reduces hunger, which can lead to weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes.

Wegovy contains semaglutide, which mimics the natural GLP-1 hormone your body releases after meals. GLP-1 helps regulate blood sugar levels, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. That way, it helps you feel satisfied with smaller portions and fewer cravings.

• 1 x medication pen
• 4 x disposable needles
• Disposable alcohol wipes (Mounjaro customers only)
• Sharps disposal box
• Patient information leaflet
• Welcome booklet

• Keep your medication in the fridge between 2-8°C before your first use and between doses.
• Keep the pen cap on to protect the medication from light and contamination.
• Track expiration dates and set reminders to replace your medication if needed.

Injecting your treatment for the first time might feel intimidating, but many patients find it to be a quick and easy process. Follow the instructions below to make it a seamless part of your weekly routine.

Wegovy and Mounjaro are administered once a week. Choose a day that works best for your routine and set a reminder on your phone or calendar. Staying consistent helps your body adjust and makes it easier to remember.

Choosing Friday or Saturday gives you time to manage potential side effects (like nausea or fatigue), and adjust your routine without workday stress. If weekends tend to trigger binge eating or overindulgence, injecting towards the end of the week (e.g., Thursday or Friday) can help curb weekend cravings, promoting more mindful eating habits.

On the other hand, some people prefer early-week injections (like Monday) to reinforce healthy habits and maintain structure throughout the week.

Titration is the process of gradually adjusting your medication dose over time. This helps your body get used to the treatment and can reduce potential side effects. It’s a safe and supported way to find the dose that works best for you.

It works with GLP-1 medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro by starting at a low dose and may be increased gradually if needed. At MedExpress, our clinicians review your progress regularly and will only adjust your dose if it’s safe, appropriate, and helping you make steady progress. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way with reminders and guidance designed to make treatment simple and supportive.

There’s no single “right” dose for everyone. Your clinician will work with you to find what feels best, balancing comfort, side effects, and results. Some people stay on a lower dose for longer; others move up over time. The goal is always the same: to help you feel well, manage side effects, and see sustainable progress at a pace that suits you.