When researching weight-loss medications like Mounjaro, you will encounter a range of medical and pharmaceutical terms. This glossary explains the most important ones in plain English.
Drug-Related Terms
- GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1): A hormone produced in the gut that regulates appetite and blood sugar. GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide, liraglutide) mimic this hormone.
- GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide): Another gut hormone involved in insulin release and fat metabolism. Mounjaro targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors.
- Dual agonist: A medication that activates two different receptor types simultaneously. Mounjaro is a GIP/GLP-1 dual agonist.
- Tirzepatide: The generic (active ingredient) name for Mounjaro.
- Semaglutide: The generic name for Wegovy (weight loss) and Ozempic (diabetes).
- Liraglutide: The generic name for Saxenda (weight loss) and Victoza (diabetes).
Dosing and Treatment Terms
- Titration: The process of gradually increasing a medication dose over time to minimise side effects and find the optimal dose.
- Maintenance dose: The dose at which you remain once titration is complete and your prescriber is satisfied with your response.
- Subcutaneous injection: An injection into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin (not into muscle or veins). All GLP-1 injectables are administered this way.
- KwikPen: Eli Lilly’s pre-filled, single-use injection device for Mounjaro.
- Off-label: Using a medication for a purpose not specified in its marketing authorisation. For example, using Ozempic for weight loss when it is licensed only for diabetes.
Medical and Body Composition Terms
- BMI (Body Mass Index): A ratio of weight to height used to classify underweight, healthy weight, overweight and obesity.
- Comorbidity: A health condition that exists alongside the primary condition. Obesity comorbidities include type 2 diabetes, hypertension and sleep apnoea.
- Gastric emptying: The speed at which food leaves the stomach. GLP-1 medications slow this process, promoting fullness.
- Telogen effluvium: Temporary hair shedding caused by physical stress such as rapid weight loss.
- Lipodystrophy: Changes in fat tissue at injection sites, caused by repeated injections in the same area.
Regulatory and Pharmacy Terms
- MHRA: The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, the UK body that authorises medicines.
- NICE: The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, which issues guidance on NHS treatments.
- GPhC: The General Pharmaceutical Council, the UK regulator for pharmacies and pharmacists.
- POM (Prescription Only Medicine): A medication that can only be supplied with a valid prescription. Mounjaro is a POM.
- PIL (Patient Information Leaflet): The printed leaflet inside your medication box that details usage, side effects and storage instructions.
Bookmark this glossary and refer back to it whenever you encounter unfamiliar terminology during your treatment journey.