For the past six months, I’ve been taking Mounjaro injections weekly, and the results have been nothing short of life-changing.
I’ve dropped nearly two stone, shrinking from a post-menopausal size 18 to a lean and muscly size 12.
Beyond the numbers on the scale, I feel energized, healthy, and happier in my skin than I have in decades.
While these medications aren’t designed to be addictive, I’ve discovered I can’t imagine life without them.
The Physical and Emotional Benefits
Every morning, I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror and marvel at the changes.
My mornings now start with a sense of gratitude, pulling on my sports gear and heading to the gym with renewed enthusiasm.
I’m no longer reliant on blood pressure medication, my sleep apnoea has vanished, and my arthritic joints feel pain-free.
I managed to keep costs down by ordering my injection pens from an online pharmacy, using half doses each week to stretch a 10mg pen over two weeks.
My calculations show that my routine costs less than £3 a day—a small price compared to the savings on food and wine as my appetite has naturally decreased.
The Price Hike Shock
Earlier this month, my world was shaken. Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, announced a price increase of 170 per cent for the medication.
At the same time, my supplier refused my next order, questioning the gap since my last purchase.
Panic set in. My carefully controlled routine suddenly felt threatened, and I found myself spiraling into anxiety about returning to my old life, weighed down by hunger, cravings, and failed diets.
When Addiction Takes Hold
I started exploring expensive online pharmacies, signing up for high-cost subscription schemes, and bending the rules to secure my next dose.
I even disguised my weight in photos to qualify for new prescriptions.
My behavior shocked me, but it’s a stark reminder of what dependency can do—even with something as life-enhancing as weight-loss medication.
The Broader Struggle
I’m aware I’m fortunate to afford Mounjaro privately, but the fear of losing access was overwhelming.
Online support groups are filled with stories like mine—people panicking over affordability, some even considering going into debt just to maintain their treatment.
Chemist4U reported a surge in demand, and many pharmacies are struggling to keep up with orders.
A Return to Calm
Thankfully, my supplier eventually delivered my pen, and my anxiety eased. Still, the episode left me horrified at my reaction.
The rise in prices has exposed the precarious balance for many people relying on Mounjaro to manage their weight and health.
The Rising Cost of Weight-Loss Medications
Price hikes will vary depending on the dose and pharmacy, with larger doses being affected most. A 2.5mg pen could cost £136–£277, a 5mg pen £159–£292, and the highest doses up to £436.
Over a year, following the recommended dosage progression, users could see total costs increase by 50–150 per cent.
Alternatives and Advice
Some alternatives exist. Lower doses, microdosing strategies (under medical supervision), and switching to Wegovy can help manage costs.
Natural methods like protein-rich diets, soluble fiber, healthy fats, and intermittent fasting stimulate GLP-1 but cannot match the weight-loss effects of medications.
Looking Ahead
I’m committed to staying healthy and active well into my 70s and 80s, and Mounjaro has become an integral part of that journey.
Even if I’m “addicted,” as long as I have access to my injection pens, I feel empowered and in control of my health—and that’s worth every bit of effort and vigilance.
