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The Slimming Direct learning hub

Clear guidance.
For every stage.

A practical guide to treatment choices, realistic expectations, common side effects, food, plateaus, doses and what may happen when treatment changes.

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IN THIS GUIDEUnderstand the journey, one question at a time.
01Treatment choices02Side effects03Food & progress04Long-term care
Choose where to begin

Your guide to
supported progress.

You do not need to read everything in one sitting. Choose the question that matters today, then return whenever you need another part of the guide. Prescription decisions, dose changes and treatment switches must always be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

TREATMENT CHOICESMounjaro or Wegovy: understand the differences↘FEELING PREPAREDCommon side effects and ways to manage them↘EVERYDAY CHOICESFoods that support comfort, fullness and nutrition↘WHEN PROGRESS SLOWSWhy plateaus happen and practical next steps↘YOUR PRESCRIBED PLANHow Mounjaro doses usually progress↘LOOKING AHEADAppetite, maintenance and stopping treatment↘
01

Mounjaro vs Wegovy

Both medicines support weight management alongside healthy lifestyle changes. They work in related but slightly different ways, and suitability depends on the individual.

What is Mounjaro?

Mounjaro contains tirzepatide. It mimics two naturally occurring hormones involved in appetite regulation: GLP-1 and GIP.

  • May reduce appetite and food cravings
  • Can increase feelings of fullness
  • Slows stomach emptying

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy contains semaglutide. It mimics GLP-1, helping regulate hunger and food intake. It is used for weight management alongside dietary and lifestyle changes.

Key differences

FeatureMounjaroWegovy
Active ingredientTirzepatideSemaglutide
Hormones targetedGLP-1 and GIPGLP-1
AdministrationWeekly injectionWeekly injection
Dose escalationYesYes
Appetite reductionSignificantSignificant
Weight-loss potentialHigher averages in some clinical trialsSignificant clinical results

Which produces greater weight loss?

Clinical studies suggest tirzepatide may produce greater average weight loss than semaglutide in some populations. Results still vary with starting weight, diet, physical activity, adherence and underlying health conditions.

Which should you choose?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Your clinician considers BMI, medical history, current medicines and previous weight-loss attempts. Both medicines can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion and reduced appetite, especially after starting or increasing a dose.

02

How much weight can you lose with Mounjaro?

Research has shown substantial average weight loss over approximately 72 weeks when tirzepatide is combined with diet and exercise. An individual result cannot be predicted or guaranteed.

How it may help

  • Reduce hunger and food cravings
  • Increase feelings of fullness
  • Support healthier eating habits
  • Reduce calorie intake

What influences results?

Starting BMI, lifestyle changes, medication adherence and the dose reached can all influence progress.

A typical journey

Month 1

Reduced appetite, earlier fullness and less snacking may begin. Weight loss often starts gradually.

Months 2–4

As doses change, appetite suppression may feel stronger, cravings can reduce further and weight loss may accelerate.

Months 5–12

Many people continue to lose weight steadily while maintaining healthy lifestyle habits.

Supporting sustainable progress

Prioritise protein, vegetables, fruit and whole grains. Stay hydrated, exercise regularly, follow dose guidance, attend reviews and focus on long-term changes rather than a short-term result.

Keep expectations personal

Mounjaro can be effective for eligible patients, but results vary. Combining treatment with nutrition, movement and clinical support gives the best opportunity for sustainable progress.

03

Mounjaro side effects explained

Most reported side effects are mild to moderate and are more common when treatment starts or a dose increases. They often improve as the body adjusts.

Nausea

Eating smaller meals, avoiding fatty foods, eating slowly and staying hydrated may help.

Constipation

Increase water, choose fibre-rich foods and remain physically active.

Diarrhoea and appetite changes

Diarrhoea can happen during treatment initiation or a dose increase, so hydration matters. Reduced appetite is intended, but nutritious foods and enough protein remain important.

Other possible effects

  • Indigestion, bloating or heartburn
  • Fatigue or dizziness
  • Vomiting or stomach discomfort

These symptoms are often temporary.

When to seek advice

Contact a healthcare professional for severe or persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms that are worsening rather than improving. Always follow your prescriber’s advice.

Ways to reduce discomfort

Follow the recommended dosing schedule, avoid large or greasy meals, drink plenty of fluids, eat slowly and include adequate protein. Do not change your dose yourself.

04

Switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro

Some patients may be able to switch, but only after assessment and guidance from a qualified healthcare professional.

Why a switch may be discussed

  • Progress has slowed or plateaued
  • Side effects are difficult to manage
  • A different treatment may be more suitable
  • Availability or personal goals have changed

How the transition is planned

Your prescriber reviews the current Wegovy dose, advises when to take the final dose, confirms when Mounjaro may begin and chooses an appropriate starting dose.

Do you start on the lowest dose?

Many people begin Mounjaro at its recommended starting dose even after Wegovy. A gradual approach helps the body adjust and can reduce digestive side effects.

Will side effects return?

Nausea, constipation, diarrhoea, reduced appetite or stomach discomfort may occur again and often improve as the body adjusts.

Frequently asked

Can I switch without a consultation? No. A prescriber must supervise the change. Do I need a break? Your prescriber decides whether a gap is appropriate. Will I lose more weight? Some continue to lose weight, while others progress more slowly; diet, movement, adherence and individual response all matter.

05

Switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy

A switch to semaglutide may be possible after clinical assessment. It should never be done without medical advice.

Reasons for changing

  • Difficulty tolerating side effects
  • A change in medical circumstances
  • Treatment availability
  • Personal preference after discussion
  • Your clinician believes another option is more suitable

How it is managed

Your current Mounjaro dose, response, side effects and the appropriate Wegovy starting dose are reviewed. Following professional guidance supports a safer transition.

Starting and side effects

Many patients begin Wegovy at the recommended starting dose. Temporary nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion or reduced appetite may occur.

Will progress continue?

Many people continue losing weight, but the rate varies. Balanced nutrition, movement, protein and ongoing clinical support remain important.

Frequently asked

Can I change treatment myself? No. Can both medicines be taken together? They work on similar pathways and are not intended to be combined for weight management. Will weight return during a switch? Most people follow a direct clinician-led transition; keeping healthy routines supports progress.

06

Wegovy side effects explained

Wegovy contains semaglutide. Many people tolerate it well, but side effects can occur when treatment begins or a dose increases.

Common effects

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Stomach discomfort or indigestion
  • Headache, fatigue or reduced appetite

Tips that may help

  • Eat smaller meals and eat slowly
  • Avoid greasy or high-fat foods
  • Stay well hydrated
  • Stop before you feel overly full

When to seek medical advice

Speak to a healthcare professional if you experience severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration or symptoms that do not improve. Follow your prescribed dosing schedule and read the patient information leaflet.

07

Best foods to eat on Mounjaro

Reduced appetite can make it easier to eat less, but nutritious choices are still essential for sustainable weight loss and preserving muscle.

Prioritise protein

Chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, Greek yoghurt, cottage cheese, tofu and lentils can support fullness and muscle maintenance.

Fill up on vegetables

Broccoli, spinach, peppers, cauliflower, green beans and leafy salads provide fibre, vitamins and minerals with relatively few calories.

Choose useful carbohydrates

Oats, brown rice, wholegrain bread, sweet potatoes and quinoa can form part of balanced meals.

Plan simple snacks

Protein yoghurt, boiled eggs, apple with peanut butter, mixed nuts or a protein shake may be useful choices.

The everyday aim

Build a balanced pattern around protein, vegetables and whole foods. This supports nutrition, comfort and muscle preservation during weight loss.

08

Why am I not losing weight on Mounjaro?

Weight loss is rarely a straight line. A slower week or month does not necessarily mean treatment is no longer helping.

You may still be early in treatment

Lower starting doses help your body adjust and may not create the strongest appetite effect.

Calories can be easy to miss

Drinks, snacks, sauces, takeaways and weekend eating can add more energy than expected.

Protein and movement matter

Low protein may increase hunger and reduce muscle preservation. Regular activity supports energy expenditure and long-term management.

Your needs change

As weight decreases, the body requires fewer calories. Progress may naturally slow even when habits stay the same.

Practical next steps

Track food intake honestly, increase protein, stay hydrated, move regularly and continue treatment as prescribed. Consistency over months usually matters more than short-term fluctuations.

09

Weight-loss plateau guide

A plateau is a period when weight loss slows or temporarily stops despite ongoing treatment and healthy habits. It is a normal part of many journeys.

Why plateaus happen

  • Your body requires fewer calories after weight loss
  • Metabolism adapts
  • Activity levels may change
  • Water retention naturally fluctuates

Review portions

As appetite changes, portion sizes can gradually increase without being obvious. A short, honest review can reveal small adjustments.

Protect muscle

Include protein at every meal where possible and consider walking, resistance training and regular daily movement.

Stay consistent

Avoid drastic changes. Sustainable habits generally produce better long-term outcomes. A plateau does not automatically mean treatment has stopped working.

10

Mounjaro dose guide: 2.5mg to 15mg

Treatment is increased gradually to help the body adapt and reduce side effects. Your prescriber decides if and when a change is appropriate.

Typical dose progression

2.5mgStarting dose
5mgOften after four weeks
7.5mgFurther progression
10mgMaintenance option
12.5mgWhen appropriate
15mgMaximum licensed dose

Do you need to reach 15mg?

Not necessarily. Many patients achieve useful appetite control and progress at lower doses and remain where benefits and side effects are balanced.

If you miss a dose

Follow the Patient Information Leaflet and ask your prescriber or pharmacist if you are unsure. Do not double up or change the plan yourself.

Your dose is personal

Gradual progression helps balance effectiveness and tolerability. A strength selector or general schedule never replaces an individual prescription.

11

Foods to limit on Mounjaro

No food is completely prohibited for everyone, but some choices may worsen nausea, bloating or indigestion and make progress harder.

High-fat foods

Fried food, burgers, pizza, creamy sauces and pastries digest slowly and may worsen discomfort. Try grilled chicken, baked fish, lean mince, air-fried meals or tomato-based sauces.

Large meals

Because stomach emptying is slower, large portions can feel uncomfortable. Try smaller meals, eat slowly and stop when comfortably full.

Sugary and processed foods

Limit frequent fizzy drinks, cakes, biscuits, sweets, chocolate, sugary cereals, crisps, fast food, processed ready meals, pastries and processed meats.

Alcohol

Alcohol adds calories and may worsen dehydration when vomiting or diarrhoea occurs. If you drink, keep it moderate, stay hydrated and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.

Focus on nourishment and hydration

Build meals around lean protein, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and moderate fruit. Many adults aim for around two litres of fluid daily, although individual needs vary with health, activity and weather.

12

What happens when you stop Mounjaro?

Mounjaro helps regulate appetite while it is being used. When treatment stops, those effects gradually reduce and appetite may return.

Appetite may change

You may feel hungrier between meals, notice more cravings, eat larger portions or snack more frequently. The timing varies between people.

Can weight return?

Weight regain is possible, particularly when eating and activity habits are not maintained. Research on this class of medicine shows many people regain some weight after stopping, although the amount varies.

Ways to maintain progress

  • Eat a balanced diet and prioritise protein
  • Stay physically active
  • Monitor weight regularly
  • Protect sleep and manage stress
  • Use ongoing professional support

When treatment may be reviewed

This may happen after reaching a target, when side effects are not tolerated, when expected benefit is not seen, if medical circumstances change or when another option is more appropriate.

Do not stop without advice

Speak with your prescriber before stopping unless you have been told to stop because of side effects or another medical reason. Weight management is often long term, and your clinician can help make a plan for treatment, lifestyle and ongoing support.

Your next step

Ready to talk through your options?

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