Everything you need to know about tirzepatide (Mounjaro) weight loss treatment.

1 – What is tirzepatide and what is it used for?

Tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro) is an injectable medication used to regulate blood sugar levels and support weight loss. Tirzepatide acts as a dual incretin receptor agonist: it activates GLP-1 and GIP receptors. This dual mechanism gives it superior efficacy over GLP-1 receptor agonists alone like semaglutide (Wegovy).

2 – How does tirzepatide work?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) works by:

• Enhancing insulin secretion when blood glucose is high.
• Reducing glucagon secretion (a hormone that increases blood sugar),
• Slowing gastric emptying. This helps lower blood sugar and prolongs feelings of fullness while increasing the body's insulin response after eating, further aiding in effective blood sugar control.

The bottom line: The dual action of GLP-1 and GIP receptors help mimic the natural incretin response to a meal, which contributes to decreased appetite and weight reduction.

3 – Who is tirzepatide for?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is suitable for men who:

• Have struggled to lose weight with lifestyle changes alone.
• Need to reduce weight to improve or prevent metabolic conditions.
• Have a BMI of ≥ 30 kg/m² or ≥ 27 kg/m² with at least one comorbidity.
• Are not dealing with major gastrointestinal disorders like gastroparesis.

Check out our qualification criteria for more details below.

4 – How is tirzepatide different from other GLP-1 treatments for weight loss?

Although similar in usage, research has shown that a dual incretin receptor like tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is more effective for weight loss than GLP-1 alone. Studies have reported a weight loss reduction of up to 20% while Semaglutide sits at around 15%.

5 – Are Mounjaro and tirzepatide the same thing?

Yes, tirzepatide is the formal name of the medication while Mounjaro is the brand name but they are exactly the same thing.

6 – Can tirzepatide be used for conditions other than weight loss?

Yes, tirzepatide (Mounjaro) can be used for the management of type 2 diabetes by helping to lower blood sugar (glucose) levels when combined with diet and exercise.

7 – Can tirzepatide be combined with insulin if I have type 2 diabetes?

Combining tirzepatide (Mounjaro) with insulin is possible but it requires careful medical supervision to ensure safety, avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and optimize dosing.

8 – How much weight can I expect to lose using tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) can lead to weight loss around 15–20% of baseline body weight when used at the highest dose. Those starting on lower doses typically see a more gradual weight reduction–your doctor will advise what’s best for you to begin with and how to adjust for continued weight loss.

Results can vary based on factors such as baseline weight, metabolic status, lifestyle changes (diet, exercise), and individual sensitivity to the medication. We advise that making lifestyle changes alongside weight loss treatment is essential to making the most of tirzepatide.

9 – What are the key benefits of tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) boasts a range of key benefits for men with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes:

• Significant weight loss. In clinical trials, patients lost up to 21% of their baseline body weight over a period of 72 weeks–this result is higher than GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide/Wegovy. In turns, significant weight loss helps reduce visceral fat, waist circumference, and obesity-related inflammation.
• Improved blood sugar control. Lowers HbA1c (a marker of long-term blood glucose) more effectively than insulin and semaglutide. It also helps to reduce glucose spikes after meals and improves fasting blood sugar levels.
• Cardiometabolic improvements. Lowers blood pressure and improves lipid profile (e.g. cholesterol). It also improves insulin sensitivity and reduces markers of insulin resistance, thereby reducing risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
• Reduced food cravings & appetite. Decreases appetite and improves satiety (the feeling of fullness) via gut-brain hormonal pathways. Many users report less urge to snack or overeat, even just a few weeks after taking it.
• Potential long-term disease prevention. Ongoing studies suggest tirzepatide may lower the risk of progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes and potentially reduce cardiovascular events. There is also some evidence to suggest better outcomes in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

10 – Why is maintaining a healthy weight important for health and longevity?

Carrying excess weight–especially abdominal fat which is common among men–significantly increases your risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Heart disease (including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart failure)
• Stroke
• Certain cancers (such as breast, colon, kidney, and pancreatic cancer)
• Fatty liver disease
• Obstructive sleep apnea

Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for overall health, disease prevention, and longevity. It directly affects your risk of chronic illness, your quality of life, and your ability to live independently as you age.

11 – How does tirzepatide treatment affect male health and fertility?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) can have a positive impact on multiple aspects of male health. Its benefits go far beyond weight loss, and many of them directly improve men’s physical, hormonal, and cardiovascular wellbeing:

• Weight loss and visceral fat reduction.
• Improved testosterone levels.
• Better glycemic control.
• Reduced risk of erectile dysfunction (ED).
• Cardiovascular protection.
• Mental health and energy.

12 – What should I do if I’ve tried losing weight the traditional way but it doesn’t work or seem to stay off?

If you've tried traditional methods–like diet and exercise–and haven’t been able to lose weight or keep it off, you're not alone. Long-term weight management is difficult for many men due to complex biological, psychological, and environmental factors.

We advise that you:

• Reassess the root causes. It’s not all down to willpower and the medical profession has recognised this. Consider the role of other factors that could be impacting your ability to lose weight such as: insulin resistance, low testosterone, sleep, stress or emotional eating.
• Work with a specialist. Rather than going it alone, consider working with a registered dietician, endocrinologist (to assess hormonal imbalances), GP or obesity specialist.
• Consider medical therapies. If lifestyle changes haven’t worked long-term, medically supported weight loss may be appropriate:
  • GLP-1 agonists like tirzepatide (Mounjaro) or semaglutide (Wegovy) can reduce appetite, improve metabolism, and lead to significant, sustainable weight loss.
  • Other options include orlistat, naltrexone/bupropion, or bariatric surgery–depending on your health and weight history.

13 – Can weight loss with tirzepatide be sustained long-term?

Yes, weight loss with tirzepatide (Mounjaro) can be sustained long-term—but only with ongoing support, and often continued treatment. Long-term changes to diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress management as well as behavioural coaching or some form of cognitive therapy (e.g. CBT) are vital for the root-cause success of any weight loss medication.

14 – Will I regain weight if I stop taking tirzepatide?

Like most weight-loss medications, stopping tirzepatide (Mounjaro) often leads to some weight regain. Evidence suggests that patients regained about half the lost weight within a year of stopping treatment. This is not unique to tirzepatide–a similar rebound is seen after stopping semaglutide (Wegovy) or even post-bariatric surgery without lifestyle follow-up.

Here at Heracles, you will get access to nutrition education and lifestyle advice to support tirzepatide treatment so that you can achieve both initial weight loss and adopt it as a root-cause health and longevity strategy.

15 – Am I a failure for turning to weight loss medications like tirzepatide?

For decades, weight loss was framed as a moral issue: eat less, move more, and if you can’t lose weight, you’re just lazy. But we now know weight regulation is biologically complex and involves many factors such as: genetics, hormones, stress, sleep, trauma, chronic conditions and brain reward systems.

Medical bodies like the World Health Organization, American Medical Association, and NHS recognise obesity as a chronic, relapsing disease. Using medication to treat a disease is normal and sensible. No one feels shame for taking insulin for diabetes or inhalers for asthma so why should it be different for obesity?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) isn’t a magic fix and it works best with lifestyle changes. It takes commitment and consistency. And if it helps you avoid diabetes, joint damage, or heart disease, then it’s not a shortcut–it’s a lifeline.

16 – What conditions do I need to meet for tirzepatide treatment?

In order to qualify for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) treatment at Heracles, you must have a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher or a BMI of 27 kg/m² or higher and at least one weight-related comorbidity (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia).

Our doctors’ initial assessment to qualify for tirzepatide treatment is tailored to the individual’s health profile, including their overall metabolic health, existing comorbidities, and risk factors. It is also viewed as part of a broader management plan that includes lifestyle interventions such as diet, exercise, and close monitoring by a healthcare professional.

17 – Do I need to see a doctor to be prescribed tirzepatide?

Yes, you need to see a doctor to be prescribed tirzepatide (Mounjaro)–whether for weight loss or type 2 diabetes. It's a prescription-only medication that requires medical supervision for safe and effective use. You can reach out to your GP or attend private clinics and online men’s health services like Heracles.

18 – What is the tirzepatide prescription process at Heracles?

We begin the process by asking you to fill in a questionnaire and submit photos to verify your weight. If your application for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) treatment is successful, you will be contacted by a member of our medical team to book in for your initial assessment. During the assessment, we will ask you targeted questions and a chance to discuss your medical history in order to build a root-cause picture of your case and treatment plan. You will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

19 – Why should I add on blood tests?

You can add on optional blood tests which we highly recommend for a thorough assessment of your case. Not only do they help ensure the medication is safe, appropriate, and effective for you, but they also serve as a benchmark for weight-loss progress and its effects on multiple systems within the body.

Our blood tests include: lipids (cholesterol), Hba1C, TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), FT4 (free thyroxine), liver function and kidney function.

20 – What’s the best medical treatment for weight loss?

Let’s start by saying that ‘best’ depends on how much weight you need to lose, your medical history and health risks, and your personal preferences, all of which you can discuss with one of our medical professionals.

Nonetheless, evidence suggests that the most successful medical weight loss treatments–as defined by the most amount of weight lost relative to baseline body weight–are:

• Metabolic / bariatric surgery e.g. gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, with 25-35% loss of baseline body weight. Most of the weight stays off when surgical after-care is good.
• Dual / triple incretin drugs e.g. tirzepatide (Mounjaro), with approximately 20% loss of baseline body weight. Some weight regain occurs after stopping.
• GLP-1 only drugs e.g. semaglutide (Wegovy), with 15% loss of baseline body weight. Some weight regain occurs after stopping.

Important: Medication can suppress appetite and improve metabolic health, but it does not permanently rewire habits or biology. Without lifestyle support, the risk of weight regain is significantly higher. Structured diet, resistance training, sleep hygiene, and stress management–all of it matters and needs to be applied alongside treatment in order for you to reap the benefits during and after coming off it.

21 – What medical weight-loss treatments are available at Heracles?

At Heracles, we are able to offer you medical weight-loss treatment in the form of injectable tirzepatide (brand name Mounjaro).

Tirzepatide is administered as a once-weekly injection under the skin using a single-use, prefilled pen. It’s designed to be simple, discreet, and self-administered at home.

Start low and go slow. Our recommended starting dose is usually 2.5 mg once weekly which assesses initial tolerance. From then on, your dose can be gradually increased and any initial side effects will start to subside.

22 – How long does it take to see results after taking tirzepatide?

You can start seeing results within the first few weeks, but the full effects build gradually over several months, depending on your treatment goals (e.g. weight loss vs. blood sugar control). As a general rule of thumb, by months 3-6 you will have seen a significant and steady weight reduction (5-10% of starting body weight is common). By months 12+ you will have achieved the maximum amount (15-20% of starting body weight).

Important: The degree of weight loss you experience depends on reaching higher maintenance doses, which are gradually increased over time, as well as the application of lifestyle factors.

You’re more likely to stop or reduce your dose successfully if you’ve built lasting habits around food, movement, sleep, and stress and you’ve lost a healthy amount of weight (e.g. 10–15%) and maintained it for several months.

23 – How safe is tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is generally considered safe and well-tolerated when used under medical supervision. However, like any medical weight-loss therapy, it comes with risks and side effects that must be balanced against the benefits.

24 – Are there any side-effects to taking tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Most are gastrointestinal and dose-dependent:

• Nausea. Most common side effect. Occurs in 20-40% of patients for the first few weeks or after dose escalation.
• Diarrhoea. Mild, resolves with time.
• Vomiting. Less common, but can occur after dose escalation.

Less common and serious side effects:

• Gallbladder problems.
• Pancreatitis.
• Acute kidney injury.
• Hypoglycemia.

25 – Who can NOT take tirzepatide?

Anyone who has a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) must not take tirzepatide (Mounjaro) because in rodent studies, tirzepatide caused C-cell tumors in the thyroid. Though this hasn’t been observed in humans, the risk is taken seriously due to its severity.

Anyone who has a personal or family history of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) must not take tirzepatide (Mounjaro) because of the same reason as above.
Anyone who has the following conditions must not take tirzepatide (Mounjaro):

• Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
• History of pancreatitis
• Known allergic reaction to tirzepatide

26 – Why can’t I take tirzepatide if I have a personal or family history of MTC or MEN-2?

You must not take tirzepatide (Mounjaro) if you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) because of a theoretical but serious cancer risk identified in preclinical rodent studies.

27 – Can I consume alcohol while taking tirzepatide?

Yes, you can technically drink alcohol while taking tirzepatide, but it’s not recommended. Very light drinking (1 drink) while taking tirzepatide is considered generally safe. If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption while taking tirzepatide, please consult with a doctor.

28 – How long do I need to take tirzepatide (Mounjaro) for?

Obesity is now understood as a chronic, relapsing disease, not a temporary condition.
Like diabetes or hypertension, the best outcomes often come from ongoing medication plus lifestyle change. Many doctors prescribe tirzepatide indefinitely, especially if you’ve had obesity-related conditions (e.g. diabetes, PCOS, sleep apnea), you regain weight when stopping or lifestyle changes alone haven’t been enough.

29 – How can I change my lifestyle to support tirzepatide treatment?

It’s a known fact that tirzepatide (Mounjaro) works best when combined with healthy, sustainable lifestyle changes. These changes help you maximize fat loss, preserve muscle, prevent weight regain, and improve blood sugar and energy levels both during and after treatment.

Eat a quality-driven diet. Since tirzepatide tends to reduce appetite, it's essential to make every meal nutrient-dense. Focus on high-protein foods like eggs, lean meats, fish, Greek yogHurt, or legumes. Include fiber-rich carbohydrates such as vegetables, berries, oats, and lentils, which help stabilize blood sugar and keep you fuller longer. Healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocado also support hormone health and satiety (the feeling of satisfaction).

Prioritise strength training. Combining tirzepatide with strength helps preserve lean muscle as you lose fat and boost your metabolism. Strength training two to three times per week will help maintain muscle mass.

Improve sleep. Often overlooked, sleep is essential for hormone regulation and recovery. Poor sleep disrupts appetite hormones like ghrelin and leptin, which can increase cravings and slow progress. Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night, stick to a regular bedtime, reduce blue light exposure from screens before bed, and limit caffeine in the afternoon.

Reduce stress and anxiety. Chronic stress can trigger emotional eating, raise cortisol levels (which promote belly fat), and reduce your motivation to stay consistent. Mindfulness practices, deep breathing, journaling, or therapy can help.

30 – What’s the best diet alongside tirzepatide treatment?

For someone on tirzepatide (Mounjro), the best diet is one that works with the medication’s effects–namely, reduced appetite, slowed digestion, and enhanced insulin sensitivity–while supporting long-term fat loss, muscle retention, and metabolic health.

Here’s a rough guide:

• Is driven by quality, not quantity.
• Prioritises protein and healthy fats.
• Focuses on fiber-rich foods.
• Avoids processed food, sugar, alcohol, seed oils.

As part of your treatment plan at Heracles, you will get access to nutrition education and lifestyle advice to support tirzepatide treatment. We cover more than just the basics of a healthy diet, enabling you to fuel your body for high performance and longevity.

31 – How can I support my mindset to get the most out of tirzepatide treatment?

A strong, realistic, and compassionate mental approach can help you stay motivated, consistent, and resilient–especially as your body and habits change.

Here’s how to build a mindset that helps you get the most from tirzepatide (Mounjaro) treatment:

• Shift from ‘quick fix’ to ‘long game’. Tirzepatide is not a crash diet or a magic bullet—it’s a powerful tool to help treat a chronic condition like obesity or type 2 diabetes. Reframe your journey as a long-term investment in your health, not just a short-term fix for weight loss.
• Expect and accept plateaus. It’s normal for weight loss to stall periodically—this doesn’t mean the medication isn’t working. Plateaus are your body’s way of adjusting. Use them as opportunities to review habits, not as reasons to give up.
• Visualise your future self. Connect to the why behind your journey: How do you want to feel 6–12 months from now? Visualise the energy, freedom, and confidence you’re building–not just the number on the scale.

As part of your treatment plan at Heracles, you will get access to mindset techniques and mental health ‘hacks’ to support your journey. Tirzepatide may be a physical manifestation but psychology plays a huge role–we will teach you how to get the most out of your treatment for decades to come.

32 – Is tirzepatide addictive?

No, tirzepatide (Mounjro) is not addictive as it does not stimulate reward pathways in the brain like addictive substances (e.g., opioids, nicotine, or stimulants). However, you may need to stay on it long term to maintain its benefits—especially if you have a history of weight regain or severe metabolic disease. This is a medical management strategy, not a sign of dependency.

33 – What do I do if I have an adverse reaction to tirzepatide (Mounjaro)?

If you experience:

• Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Severe abdominal pain (especially if it radiates to the back or is accompanied by vomiting or fever)
• Signs of hypoglycemia (confusion, fainting, shaking, blurred vision, difficulty speaking)

Stop taking the medication and seek urgent medical help.

If you experience:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation that lasts more than a few days or interferes with eating or hydration
• Persistent fatigue or dizziness
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, low urine output, dizziness)
• New or worsening vision problems (especially in diabetics)

Contact your doctor or GP. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.