The recent price rise news of Mounjaro in the UK has been difficult for many people. If you’re feeling worried or uncertain about what this means for your treatment, you’re not alone.
Because of these changes, a growing number of people are now considering alternatives such as Wegovy (semaglutide). Wegovy is often more affordable, and studies have shown that at higher doses it can lead to weight loss of up to 20%.
Still, it’s important to remember that Mounjaro and Wegovy are not the same medication. Each works differently, and switching from one to the other needs careful thought and planning with the right support.
To make things a little easier, we’ve pulled together the key things you should know before making a decision.
Because of these differences, there isn’t a direct like-for-like conversion between the two medicines. Instead, clinicians use approximate dose equivalents when making the switch.
Mounjaro is available in the following dose strengths (weekly injections):
Wegovy is available in these weekly dose strengths:
At Shemed, we understand that switching between treatments can feel overwhelming, and many people want clear answers. However, there is no strict dose conversion between Mounjaro and Wegovy. The choice of starting dose when switching should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional, taking into account your current treatment, medical history, and individual response.
⚠️ Important: Please don’t feel you need to figure this out on your own. Do not attempt to switch or calculate equivalent doses without support. Always follow the advice of your prescribing clinician, who will guide you safely through the transition and answer any questions you may have.
At SheMed we recommend:
At Shemed, your clinician will decide which starting dose of Wegovy is most suitable for you. Titration - that is, gradually increasing the dose over time - will be required to minimise side effects and ensure your body adjusts safely. The exact schedule will vary depending on your individual circumstances, and your prescribing clinician will guide you through this process step by step.
Common side effects during the switch can include:
These usually improve as your body adjusts, and your clinician will be on hand to support you if side effects persist or feel difficult to manage.
Need Support?
If you are considering switching from Mounjaro to Wegovy and would like tailored advice, our clinicians at Shemed are here to help. You can reach us at support@shemed.com for guidance and support with your treatment journey.
Have you recently started Mounjaro and found yourself dealing with unexpected and uncomfortable belching that smells a bit like rotten eggs? If so, you're not alone - and you're certainly not imagining it. These “sulphur burps” can be distressing, especially when you're otherwise motivated and hopeful about your weight loss journey.
Based on a survey in the UK, many patients reported that they felt blindsided by this peculiar side effect. One minute, they’re feeling hopeful with a powerful new weight loss injection, and the next, they’re wondering if something’s gone wrong with their digestive system. And perhaps you're wondering the same - Is this normal? Will it go away? And what can I do about it?
This guide was created to address those very concerns. We’ll explore why Mounjaro (tirzepatide) might cause sulfur burps, how common and manageable this issue is, and what you can do to ease the discomfort without compromising your progress. Let's unpack the science behind it and, more importantly, the practical ways to feel better.
Mounjaro has quickly become one of the most talked-about advances in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Approved by MHRA, it has brought fresh hope to individuals struggling with weight loss and metabolic health.
Its arrival on the NHS and in private weight loss clinics has been met with enthusiasm, especially because of its dual-action mechanism that promotes both improved blood sugar control and significant weight loss. For many, it offers the possibility of reclaiming health, mobility, and confidence.
But with all medications, especially newer ones, there can be surprises. One of these is gastrointestinal discomfort, and in particular, foul-smelling burps that some describe as tasting or smelling like sulphur. While not dangerous, they can be off-putting and even socially disruptive.
To understand why such a symptom might occur, it helps to know a bit about how Mounjaro functions in the body. Tirzepatide is what we call a dual incretin agonist. It mimics the actions of two naturally occurring gut hormones - GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). Together, these hormones help regulate blood sugar after eating, reduce appetite, and, importantly, slow down how quickly food moves through the stomach.
This slowing down of digestion is beneficial for weight loss, as it helps you feel fuller for longer and keeps post-meal blood sugars steady. But it can also lead to side effects, including nausea, bloating, and in some cases, excessive or unpleasant-smelling burping.
Mounjaro is approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes and weight loss in individuals with a BMI of 30 or more, or 27 with weight-related health conditions. It should always be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional who can guide you through its benefits and potential challenges.
Sulphur burps - sometimes called rotten egg burps - occur when gas containing hydrogen sulfide is released from the stomach and expelled through belching. The smell is distinctive and often compared to decaying eggs. It's not harmful in small amounts, but it can be unpleasant and, for some, embarrassing.
Patients describe them as sudden, foul-smelling belches that seem to come out of nowhere, sometimes accompanied by a sour or metallic taste. They can happen after meals or even on an empty stomach, and in some cases, they disrupt sleep or social activities.
Although they aren’t included as a common side effect in Mounjaro’s official safety profile, reports of sulphur burps have emerged among users, particularly those in online forums, weight loss support groups, and anecdotal clinic feedback. While not everyone will experience them, they are a recognised concern and likely tied to how the medication alters digestion.
One of Mounjaro’s main effects is slowing gastric emptying. That means food stays in your stomach and upper digestive tract longer than usual. While this helps you feel full and eat less, it also gives gut bacteria more time to break down the food, especially proteins and certain carbohydrates. When this bacterial fermentation happens, it can release gases like methane, hydrogen, and hydrogen sulfide.
Hydrogen sulfide is the culprit behind the rotten egg smell. The risk of producing this gas increases if your diet contains a lot of high-sulphur foods - think eggs, onions, garlic, cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and broccoli, red meats, and certain dairy products. Add in high-fat meals, which can slow digestion even further, and the stage is set for fermentation and gas production.
It's also important to note that every individual has a unique gut microbiome. Some people naturally have more sulphur-producing bacteria, which might explain why only certain individuals experience this side effect on Mounjaro, even when eating similar diets.
If you’re dealing with sulphur burps while taking Mounjaro, you don’t need to suffer in silence. There are several practical ways to ease the issue without having to stop the medication.
Similarly, opting for lighter, lower-fat meals can support faster digestion. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day may prevent your stomach from becoming overly full and reduce the fermentation time.
If dietary changes and mindful eating don’t fully resolve the issue, certain over-the-counter remedies may offer relief, but they should be used with guidance from your pharmacist or GP.
Simethicone-based products such as Wind-eze can help break up gas bubbles in the gut, making it easier for your body to expel them naturally. It also comes in our SheMed support pack.
Some people find benefit in taking probiotics, which can help rebalance gut bacteria. Not all probiotic strains are effective for this purpose, so look for ones supported by evidence in digestive health - your pharmacist or dietitian can recommend appropriate UK-approved brands.
Another option is bismuth subsalicylate (like Pepto-Bismol), which can bind to hydrogen sulfide and neutralise the smell. However, this should only be used occasionally and with medical guidance, especially if you’re on other medications, as it can interact with drugs.
Activated charcoal is sometimes suggested, but it can also bind to medications and nutrients, interfering with absorption. It's best to approach this option cautiously and only after speaking with your doctor.
While sulphur burps are usually a benign and manageable side effect, there are situations where you should seek medical advice. If your symptoms become persistent, worsen over time, or start to impact your daily life, speak to your GP or prescribing clinician. You may need a review of your dosage, further dietary support, or even a check for other digestive issues such as gastritis or bacterial overgrowth.
In some cases, sulphur burps could be a sign of an underlying gastrointestinal condition, particularly if they’re accompanied by red flag symptoms like severe abdominal pain, ongoing nausea or vomiting, diarrhoea or constipation, fever, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your stool or vomit.
Don’t wait to report these symptoms. Mounjaro may need to be paused or adjusted, and your doctor can ensure there’s nothing more serious occurring in the background.
Starting Mounjaro is a significant and often hopeful step in addressing weight or metabolic health challenges. While it can come with surprises like sulphur burps, it’s important to remember that most side effects are manageable - and often temporary. You don’t have to choose between relief and results.
With the right strategies, support, and awareness, you can continue progressing on your weight loss journey without being held back by uncomfortable symptoms. Stay in regular touch with your healthcare team.
Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns, especially about digestive side effects. You are not alone, and your concerns are valid. Mounjaro is one tool in a broader toolkit that includes lifestyle changes, nutrition, movement, and mental well-being. Together, these elements can help you achieve your goals in a sustainable, empowered way.
FAQs
While not officially listed as a common side effect in clinical trials, sulphur burps have been reported by some Mounjaro users. They are likely linked to the way the medication slows digestion, which can increase gas production in the gut. The symptom is usually manageable and not harmful.
Reducing foods high in sulphur - like eggs, onions, garlic, cabbage, broccoli, and red meat - may help. Limiting high-fat meals and fizzy drinks can also reduce burping. Keeping a food diary can be useful for identifying personal triggers.
Not usually. Most cases improve with dietary changes and supportive measures. However, if the symptoms are severe, persistent, or affecting your quality of life, speak to your prescribing doctor. They may suggest adjustments or further assessment.
“Why don’t I want food the way I used to?” It’s a quiet question many people on GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, or Mounjaro find themselves asking - not out of distress, but with a sense of surprise.
In recent years, GLP-1 receptor agonists - like Wegovy and Mounjaro have surged in popularity, marking a paradigm shift in the way clinicians manage obesity and type 2 diabetes. Once reserved for glycaemic control, these medications are now heralded as revolutionary tools in weight management, prompting widespread headlines and heated dinner-table debates. From celebrity endorsements to NHS programmes, the influence of GLP-1s stretches far beyond clinics.
Clinical benefits are clear: reductions in appetite, improved glycaemic markers, and meaningful weight loss (often between 10–20% of total body weight). But beneath this success story lies a more nuanced truth - these drugs do more than suppress hunger. They appear to recalibrate how users think about, crave, and emotionally respond to food. It’s no longer just about portion control; it’s about fundamentally shifting one’s relationship with eating.
This blog dives deeper into that shift - from gut mechanisms and brain signalling to emotional complexities and cultural implications. We’ll explore how GLP-1s dampen desire, reshape social dynamics, and force users to confront food in new ways - and what this means for the future of eating.
GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a hormone naturally released in the gut after eating. This gut-derived peptide, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), plays several critical roles in managing hunger and blood sugar.
Mimicking Natural HormonesThese drugs stimulate the GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas and brain. They help regulate insulin release, suppress glucagon (which raises blood sugar), and send signals to the brain that the body is full.
Delayed Gastric EmptyingGLP-1s slow how quickly food exits the stomach. This delay prolongs the sensation of fullness and reduces the desire to snack frequently - often resulting in a natural reduction in meal frequency.
Appetite Suppression via Brain SignallingThey impact the hypothalamus, a brain region involved in hunger and satiety. Users often describe feeling full earlier during meals and no longer needing snacks between meals.
Blood Sugar RegulationBy enhancing insulin secretion and lowering post-meal glucose spikes, GLP-1s also stabilise energy levels, which can indirectly reduce sugar cravings and mood-related eating episodes.
Initial Impact on Eating HabitsClinical trials and observational studies suggest a 20–30% reduction in daily calorie intake. This manifests as smaller portions, fewer snacks, and less desire to eat emotionally. The reduction isn’t forced - it’s passive, which often surprises new users.
Here’s how they help reshape eating behaviour:
In short, GLP-1s do more than curb appetite - they help reset your brain’s relationship with food, opening the door to a more mindful and sustainable approach to eating.
While the benefits are significant, life on a GLP-1 also comes with challenges - especially when food is woven into personal identity or cultural traditions.
Social ImplicationsImagine sitting at a Christmas feast or Sunday roast with loved ones and feeling disinterested in the spread. Users on social media report discomfort at family meals, where eating is expected and emotional significance is high. Food-centric events can become stressful.
Food Identity & Psychological AdjustmentFor those who identify as foodies or use cooking as creative expression, this shift can be jarring. Navigating a life where food no longer sparks joy or where choices are driven by function rather than desire can feel like a loss of identity.
Mindful EatingBy quieting cravings, GLP-1s create space to truly listen to hunger cues. Users can develop a more intuitive approach to nourishment - eating when the body asks, not when emotions command.
Prioritising Nutritional QualityWith lower intake, nutritional density matters more. The guidelines from the NHS and British Dietetic Association suggest focusing on lean proteins, fibre-rich vegetables, and fortified foods. Every bite must count.
Redefining IndulgenceIndulgence may become less about decadence and more about connection - savouring small amounts of a favourite dish, appreciating texture, or sharing meaningful conversations over meals.
Professional SupportThe NHS is increasingly supporting GLP-1 patients with multidisciplinary guidance including dietitians, diabetes specialists, and psychologists. This holistic approach ensures both physical and emotional wellbeing are prioritised.
GLP-1 medications offer powerful support in reshaping eating habits and reducing cravings - but what happens when you stop taking them?
For many, the mental and physical effects begin to fade gradually. Appetite may increase, food noise can return, and emotional eating patterns might re-emerge - especially if the underlying behaviours or triggers weren't fully addressed during treatment.
Rebound Weight & “Food Noise” ReturnStudies indicate that when GLP-1 treatment ends, hunger signals and cravings can resurface. Weight regain is common unless new habits are firmly embedded.
Learning from the GLP-1 PhaseHowever, those who used this time to cultivate healthier habits - practising mindful eating, breaking emotional dependencies, living an active lifestyle, and learning how to nourish themselves - may sustain benefits longer. The medication can act as a scaffold while behavioural change is built.
Ongoing Support is KeyBehavioural therapy, nutrition counselling, and peer support are essential in transitioning off medication. The goal? To internalise changes so they persist independently of pharmacological support.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are more than appetite suppressants. They are reshaping how individuals experience food - from physical cravings to emotional fulfilment. For many, this is life-changing; for others, it presents unexpected psychological adjustments.
Like any tool, these medications require intention, support, and context. They can help lay the foundation for healthier eating patterns, but sustaining those patterns demands effort beyond the prescription. For long-term success, medical guidance must be complemented with emotional insight and cultural sensitivity.
Ultimately, GLP-1s invite us to rethink our relationship with food - not just what we eat, but why, when, and how food fits into our lives. It's not just about fullness - it's about finding meaning in what remains beyond the bite.
1. Why do I feel less interested in food on GLP-1 medications?GLP-1s affect brain centres involved in hunger, reward, and motivation.They don’t just reduce appetite - they can change how you emotionally and mentally respond to food.
2. Is it normal to feel disconnected from food I once loved?Yes, many users report feeling emotionally neutral about previously craved foods. This shift can be surprising, even unsettling, but it’s a known effect of GLP-1 therapy.
3. Can GLP-1s affect social eating or shared meals?Absolutely. Smaller portions or lack of appetite can impact social interactions and cultural routines. Planning ahead and communicating openly can help maintain connection while adjusting.
4. Will my appetite and food enjoyment return if I stop the medication?For most people, appetite gradually returns after stopping GLP-1s. However, some emotional or behavioural shifts around food may persist, depending on your journey.
References
What if a weight loss medication could transform more than just your body? The rise of new-generation weight loss medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro has been nothing short of revolutionary. Initially celebrated for their powerful effects on type 2 diabetes and obesity, these drugs, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, are now at the centre of exciting new research. Scientists are discovering that their benefits may extend far beyond the scale, offering new treatments for some of the most challenging health conditions we face today. This isn't just about managing weight; it's about reshaping our approach to overall health. From protecting the heart to preserving brain function, here are seven conditions that these groundbreaking medications might one day treat.
The link between obesity and cardiovascular disease is well-established, so it's no surprise that weight loss would improve heart health. However, recent studies suggest these drugs do more. The landmark SELECT trial showed that semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) significantly reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death in patients with pre-existing heart disease and obesity, but without diabetes. Similarly, tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound) has shown potent cardiovascular benefits, positioning these medications as a new frontier in heart disease prevention.
Heart failure, a condition where the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, could also be a new target for these drugs. The SUMMIT trial provided compelling evidence that tirzepatide could significantly reduce deaths and hospitalisations in patients with a specific type of heart failure known as ‘heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)’, a condition notoriously challenging to treat. Beyond weight reduction, semaglutide has also shown promise in improving heart failure symptoms and physical limitations, according to both global and UK-led studies, suggesting a direct positive effect on heart muscle function.
Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and protecting kidney function is a critical part of patient care. Research is showing that GLP-1 medications may offer robust protection. Clinical trials are investigating semaglutide as a potential treatment for kidney failure. Studies have also indicated that drugs like tirzepatide can slow the progression of kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes, offering hope for preserving this vital organ's function long-term.
Metabolically-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. In its more severe form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure. Because these conditions are closely linked to obesity and metabolic health, researchers are optimistic. Clinical trials are currently underway to determine if semaglutide can effectively treat MASH, potentially reversing liver damage and preventing its progression.
Perhaps the most surprising area of research is the potential role of GLP-1 drugs in treating neurodegenerative diseases. Scientists believe these medications may reduce the chronic inflammation in the brain that is associated with conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Early evidence is promising enough that major clinical trials are now underway to see if semaglutide could become a tool to slow or even prevent the progression of these devastating diseases.
Anecdotal reports from patients about reduced cravings for alcohol and nicotine have sparked scientific interest in whether GLP-1 drugs could treat addiction. The theory is that these medications may act on the brain's reward pathways, dampening the pleasurable response associated with addictive substances and behaviours. While research is still in its early stages, studies are exploring whether these drugs can help people with substance use disorders by reducing cravings and supporting recovery efforts.
The connection between physical and mental health is undeniable. Beyond the psychological benefits that often accompany significant weight loss, there is emerging evidence that GLP-1 drugs may have a more direct impact on mental well-being. Many users report a quieting of “food noise”, the constant, intrusive thoughts about food, which can significantly reduce anxiety and improve quality of life. Researchers are now exploring if these medications could also have beneficial effects on conditions like depression, potentially by influencing brain chemistry and reducing inflammation.
The landscape of medicine is on the cusp of a significant shift. What started as a new approach to diabetes and obesity is rapidly evolving into a potential multipronged attack on a host of chronic diseases. While much of this research is ongoing and requires further study, the initial findings offer immense hope. As always, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider to understand the risks and benefits of any medication. But for the first time, a single class of drugs holds the promise of simultaneously tackling many of modern society's most pressing health challenges.
Could GLP-1 medications be proper for you? At SHEMED, our experts stay on the cutting edge of medical research. Book your consultation now.
At SheMed, we know that any changes or updates in the world of GLP-1 medications can feel overwhelming especially when you’re on your own health journey. That’s why we’re here to break down the science in simple, supportive ways, so you feel informed and reassured, not anxious.
Wegovy isn’t a brand-new medication. It contains semaglutide, the same active ingredient as Ozempic, the diabetes medication you may already have heard of. Ozempic was often in the headlines as many well-known figures have used it to support weight loss.
Doctors and researchers noticed something important: people taking Ozempic for diabetes were also losing a significant amount of weight. That discovery sparked a wave of clinical studies, which ultimately led to the creation of Wegovy, a version of semaglutide developed and licensed specifically for long-term weight management.
Today, Wegovy is one of the most well-studied GLP-1 medications worldwide, with robust evidence showing its ability to deliver safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss.
The recent STEP UP trial asked a simple but important question: if Wegovy at 2.4 mg already helps people achieve significant weight loss, could an even higher dose help those who haven’t quite reached their goals?
The study recruited more than 1,400 adults living with obesity across 11 countries. Participants were randomly given one of three weekly injections for 72 weeks:
Everyone also received lifestyle guidance advice to reduce calories and increase physical activity. Doses were gradually titrated up to help the body adjust.
After 72 weeks, the results were exciting:
The higher dose also led to a greater reduction in waist size (11.7 cm compared with 8.6 cm at the standard dose). This matters because waist circumference is a strong marker for heart and metabolic health often more predictive than BMI.
Like all GLP-1 medications, the most common side effects were digestive, such as nausea, diarrhoea, or constipation. These tended to happen during dose increases and were usually mild or moderate. While slightly more common at the higher 7.2 mg dose, serious side effects remained rare, and most symptoms eased over time.
For now, Wegovy at 2.4 mg remains the only licensed dose for weight management in the UK. The results of STEP UP suggest that in the future, higher doses could become an option for people who need extra support — but this would require regulatory approval first.
At SheMed, our focus is on safe, steady progress at licensed doses, helping you achieve results that last while protecting your health along the way. New research like this is exciting because it shows just how much potential semaglutide has in changing the future of weight care.
And no matter what the science says next, one thing won’t change: we’ll be by your side with expert guidance, transparency, and care every step of the way.
The active ingredient in the popular weight loss and diabetes injection Mounjaro has been found to slow the growth of obesity-related breast cancer in mice, according to new research.
The preliminary findings, presented at the Endocrine Society’s annual conference, suggest that the drug, tirzepatide, could have benefits beyond weight management.
Obesity is a significant public health issue in the UK and is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast cancer. While losing weight has been shown to improve cancer outcomes, many people find it difficult to achieve through traditional methods alone.
Lead study author Amanda Kucinskas, a researcher at the University of Michigan, said, "While it is very preliminary data, our studies in mice suggest that these new anti-obesity drugs may be a way to reduce obesity-associated breast cancer risk or improve outcomes.”
In the study, researchers used a mouse model to investigate the drug's effect. After being fed a high-fat diet to induce obesity, the mice were given either tirzepatide or a placebo.
The results showed that mice treated with the drug lost around 20% of their body weight and body fat, a figure similar to the weight loss seen in humans using the medication. More significantly, the drug also reduced the volume of breast cancer tumours compared to the placebo group. Researchers noted a direct correlation between lower body weight and smaller tumour size at the end of the study.
Scientists are now conducting further studies to understand if the drug has a direct anti-cancer effect or if the tumour reduction is purely a result of the weight loss.
The drug at the centre of this research, tirzepatide, is marketed as Mounjaro in the UK. It is currently available on the NHS for treating type 2 diabetes and can be obtained privately for weight loss.
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