Mounjaro® in New Zealand: Frequently Asked Questions
Mounjaro® in New Zealand: Frequently Asked Questions
With Mounjaro (tirzepatide) now available in New Zealand, we’re getting lots of questions about how this medication works, how it compares to other weight management medications and whether it could help people to reach their weight loss goals more effectively.
There’s a lot to discuss, so we thought we’d share the answers to our most commonly asked questions here.
1. What is Mounjaro®?
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly prescription medication that mimics two naturally occurring hormones: GLP-1 (glucagon –like peptide 1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide).
These dual hormones help support weight management by:
Regulating blood sugars
Slowing stomach emptying
Reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness
By reducing hunger and supporting portion control, Mounjaro® can help to support clinically significant weight loss when used alongside lifestyle modification.
2. How is Mounjaro® different from other GLP-1 medications?
Most first-generation medications (such as Saxenda® or Wegovy®) work only by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone.
Mounjaro® mimics two satiety hormones:
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) - slows digestion, increases fullness, reduces appetite
GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) - enhances insulin response and may further influence appetite and fat metabolism
Because it activates both pathways, Mounjaro® is sometimes referred to as a “dual-action” or next-generation weight management medication.
This doesn’t necessarily mean this is a better fit than other medications such as Wegovy. Our Nurse Practitioner/Prescriber, will help guide you on which medication would be best suited to your unique health circumstances.
3. Who might benefit from Mounjaro®?
At Tailor Clinics, we prescribe Mounjaro® within our Medical Weight Loss Program for:
Individuals who have had bariatric surgery and are experiencing recurrent weight gain
Individuals who have not had surgery and are exploring non-surgical weight-loss options
It may be appropriate for people living with obesity, metabolic syndrome, or type 2 diabetes - following a comprehensive medical assessment.
4. Can Mounjaro® help for recurrent weight gain after bariatric surgery?
Recurrent weight gain after bariatric surgery can feel frustrating and emotionally heavy. It is also more common than many people realise.
Biology changes over time. Hormonal adaptations, stress, life transitions, and habit changes can all influence weight trajectory after surgery.
If clinically indicated, medications like Mounjaro® may help by:
Reducing hunger signals and managing ‘food noise’
Supporting appetite regulation
Assisting with metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes
However, bariatric patients are already at higher risk of:
Not eating enough protein
Micronutrient deficiencies
Loss of lean muscle mass
Close medical and nutritional monitoring are essential.
5. How much weight can you lose?
Clinical studies show that GLP-1 (+/- GIP) medications, when combined with lifestyle intervention, can result in meaningful weight loss over several months. During the initial consultation of our Medical Weight Loss Program, we will discuss realistic expectations based on your starting point and goals. Results vary depending on the individual and adherence to the program.
6. What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects are gastrointestinal and may include:
Nausea
Constipation
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Bloating
These symptoms are often most noticeable when starting treatment or increasing the dose.
Strategies that help minimise side effects include:
Smaller, well-spaced meals
Appropriate fibre intake
Adequate hydration
Gradual dose titration under medical supervision
Our Nurse Practitioner/Prescribers and Nutritionists work closely with our patients to help manage and mitigate any side effects that may arise.
7. Why is nutrition so important while taking Mounjaro®?
Because appetite is reduced, some people unintentionally eat too little - or miss key nutrients.
Without support, this may lead to:
Increased muscle loss
Fatigue
Hair thinning
Worsening of gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation
Nutrient deficiencies
In our Medical Weight Loss Program, we combine nutrition guidance, lifestyle and behavioural support, and exercise strategies to help preserve muscle, support metabolic health, and build sustainable habits alongside medication. While medications like Mounjaro® can reduce appetite, long-term success relies on the foundations of nutrition, movement, and behaviour change.
8. Will I regain weight if I stop taking it?
Weight regain can occur if long-term habits are not established whilst taking the medication.
Mounjaro® reduces hunger while you are using it - but it does not permanently alter lifestyle behaviours or eliminate emotional triggers.
That’s why we focus on:
Habit formation
Strength training
Emotional eating support
Long-term weight stability strategies
Our goal is not just weight loss whilst taking the medication, but to build a lifestyle that can support your goals long-term.
9. How is Mounjaro® prescribed at your clinic?
We offer Mounjaro® as part of our multidisciplinary Medical Weight Loss Program, which includes:
Specialist medical oversight from our Nurse Practitioner/Prescriber
Individualised nutrition guidance from our Registered Nutritionists
Behavioural and lifestyle support from Experienced Psychologists
Physical Activity support from our Exercise Specialists
Ongoing monitoring, blood tests and follow-up
At Tailor Clinics, medication is never prescribed in isolation.
10. What should I do next?
If you’re interested in exploring Mounjaro® or other medical weight loss options:
1- Find out more about our Medical Weight Loss Program here.Designed for both bariatric patients experiencing recurrent weight gain and individuals seeking structured, non-surgical weight-loss support.
2 - Sign up for our online masterclass to learn how to optimise your nutrition alongside a GLP-1 medication.You’ll learn practical strategies for protein targets, managing gastrointestinal side effects, muscle preservation, and long-term success.
Mounjaro® represents an exciting development in medical weight management - but sustainable success comes from combining medication with expert nutrition care, behavioural support, and ongoing medical guidance.
If you have any further questions, feel free to reach out to our team on 07 859 0185 or reception@tailorclinics.co.nz
Disclaimer: this blog post is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice. For more support please always seek the guidance of your relevant health practitioners.