At Tracey Bell Clinic, we have been providing weight loss injections, including Mounjaro, for nearly two and a half years. One of the most common concerns we hear from patients is: “Why am I not losing weight?” or “Will I be a responder to this treatment?”. While Mounjaro can be an effective tool for weight loss, it’s not a magic solution—there are several factors that influence its success.
Here, I’ll break down the most common reasons why you might not be losing weight on Mounjaro and what can be done to address it.
1. You’ve Hit a Weight Loss Plateau
Weight loss is not always linear. In fact, it’s more like a rollercoaster, where progress can slow down, stall, or even temporarily reverse. A weight loss plateau happens when your body senses weight loss and responds by lowering your metabolism to conserve fat stores. This is known as your body’s set point—a mechanism designed to maintain a certain level of stored fat.
A plateau can last anywhere from 8 to 12 weeks, and during this time, you may even regain some weight before continuing to lose again. To break through a plateau, consider:
- Increasing physical activity—especially resistance training, which helps build muscle and boost metabolism.
- Adjusting your diet—reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing protein consumption can support metabolic function.
- Tracking calorie intake—even though Mounjaro reduces appetite, it’s still possible to consume excess calories unknowingly.
2. You’re Not Sticking to the Advised Dosage
Mounjaro is designed to be taken weekly, starting with a low dose (2.5mg) to minimise side effects. Over time, most patients will increase their dosage to 5mg, 7.5mg, or even higher based on their tolerance and response.
If you’re not losing weight, ask yourself:
- Are you taking the injection consistently, once per week? Missing doses or taking them irregularly can affect results.
- Have you increased your dose as recommended? Some people need a higher dosage for optimal results.
- Are you experiencing side effects? If nausea or digestive issues are preventing you from eating properly, you may not be absorbing nutrients effectively.
If you are unsure about your dosage or experiencing side effects, we strongly recommend speaking with us at the clinic for guidance.
3. Lifestyle Habits: It’s Not Just About the Injection
Many people mistakenly believe that Mounjaro will cause automatic weight loss, regardless of what they eat or how much they exercise. This is not the case.
Mounjaro works by reducing appetite and slowing digestion, which helps lower caloric intake. However, if you continue eating high-calorie foods, you can still consume more calories than your body burns, leading to a lack of weight loss—or even weight gain.
Here’s what to focus on:
Diet:
- Prioritise whole foods—lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar.
- Stay hydrated—dehydration can cause hunger and slow metabolism.
Exercise:
- At least 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week.
- Resistance training (weight lifting, bodyweight exercises) is key to increasing muscle mass and burning more calories.
- Daily movement matters—even a short walk after meals can help digestion and fat loss.
Avoid Old Habits:
- If you return to unhealthy eating habits, the weight will come back.
- Mindful eating and portion control are crucial for long-term success.
If you drive through McDonald’s every day or continue eating the same as before, you won’t see results. This medication isn’t a substitute for a lifestyle change.
4. Your Starting Weight Matters
Mounjaro is intended for people with a BMI of 30 or higher or for those with a BMI of 27+ with weight-related health conditions. If your starting weight is already relatively low, you may not experience dramatic weight loss.
For those with a higher starting weight, results may take longer to appear, but the overall weight loss potential is greater. Patience and consistency are key.
5. Underlying Health Conditions
Some patients simply do not respond to Mounjaro, and this is not uncommon. Clinical trials have shown that about 15% of people do not experience significant weight loss on Mounjaro.
Certain medical conditions can also affect weight loss, including:
- Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease)
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Insulin resistance or diabetes
- Hormonal imbalances
- Certain medications (steroids, antidepressants, etc.)
If you suspect an underlying condition is affecting your weight loss, we recommend a full health review at the Tracey Bell Clinic.
Final Thoughts: It’s a Journey, Not a Quick Fix
Weight loss is a long-term commitment, and while Mounjaro can be a powerful tool, it works best when combined with positive lifestyle changes. If you stop taking it and go back to old habits, weight regain is likely.
At Tracey Bell Clinic, we support our patients every step of the way. If you have concerns about your weight loss progress, we’re here to help. Feel free to book a review appointment, and we can assess your progress, discuss your diet and exercise, and adjust your treatment plan if needed.
Remember: this isn’t a miracle drug, but with the right approach, it can be a game-changer for weight loss.
For support, guidance, or to book an appointment, contact us at Tracey Bell Clinic today.
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