Transformed by Mounjaro: An update on my weight loss journey

Originally published on Hemophilia News Today by BioNews, Inc.

The medication has had numerous benefits for this columnist

In a previous column, I shared my journey of embarking on a weight loss program using the type 2 diabetes medication Mounjaro. I’ve used it off-label, as I do not have diabetes. Last November, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the same medication, tirzepatide, for weight loss under the brand name Zepbound.

Inspired by Oprah Winfrey’s recent TV special “An Oprah Special: Shame, Blame and the Weight Loss Revolution,” which aired on ABC on March 18, I’m compelled to offer an update on my progress. Since embarking on this journey in November 2022, my dedication has yielded remarkable results: I’ve shed an impressive 56 pounds. (Insert pat on the back.)

Mounjaro has been instrumental in reshaping my relationship with food and wellness. With my body mass index (BMI) now at 27, I’ve transitioned from the obese category to overweight, marking a significant milestone in my pursuit of better health. Losing nearly 27% of my body weight underscores a physical transformation and a profound enhancement of my overall well-being.

For people like me grappling with hemophilia, excess weight can exacerbate joint damage, particularly in weight-bearing areas like the knees and ankles. This heightened stress increases the risk of bleeds and ensuing complications. Additionally, surplus weight can hinder mobility, resulting in a sedentary lifestyle that is detrimental to joint health. Regular physical activity emerges as a crucial ally, fostering joint flexibility and muscle strength to prevent bleeds and bolster overall well-being.

Benefits beyond weight loss

Furthermore, the benefits for me extend beyond mere weight loss. Previously plagued by high blood pressure, I now find myself within a healthier range, occasionally even dipping into the realm of low blood pressure. My fatty liver disease has improved from stage 3 to stage 2.

During a recent consultation at my bariatric clinic, my doctor recommended transitioning from active weight loss to maintenance. However, because my liver is still fatty, we’ve extended the active weight loss phase by another three months, hoping for me to attain a BMI within the “healthy weight” range for my height.

Amid these strides, the financial aspect remains a formidable hurdle in my Mounjaro journey. Despite its effectiveness, my insurance company’s refusal to cover it presents a substantial challenge. While I do use a discount coupon, the cost remains significant. Moreover, the medication’s unpredictable availability adds further complexity, often requiring exhaustive searches at multiple pharmacies, like a frustrating game of whack-a-mole that tests my resilience and resourcefulness.

Despite the hurdles I’ve faced, I wholeheartedly encourage anyone grappling with excess weight to talk to your doctor about the new weight loss medications available. For me, the advantages have far surpassed any drawbacks. Personally, I’ve reached a pivotal milestone: I finally feel at ease in my own body. This profound sense of comfort and confidence is a testament to the transformative power of these medications.