Mounjaro is often touted as an effective treatment for weight loss. Marketed in France since 2024, it nevertheless remains very regulated in its use.
Among all the weight loss medications available in France is Mounjaro. Originally, this medication is a treatment for type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a new generation of medications that act on the mechanisms of hunger. A new one has just been authorized in the United States. Regarding the Mounjaro, “it is a medicine that reduces appetite and restores the feeling of fullness“, explains Dr. Arnaud Cocaul, nutritionist, to Journal des Femmes. In practice, patients eat less, which sometimes leads to significant weight loss. But this treatment is not for everyone. It is reserved for people who are obese or overweight with complications. “Someone who comes to see us wanting to lose 2 or 3 kilos, obviously it is out of the question to prescribe such medication.“, insists the specialist.
In affected patients, the results can be significant. Some lose several dozen kilos. “We are less hungry, so we eat less and lose weight“, summarizes the doctor. But this effectiveness is based on a simple mechanism and does not exempt from overall support. The treatment must be implemented gradually and can cause side effects, particularly digestive. Above all, without work on diet, sleep and physical activity, weight regain is common when stopping. “Very rapid weight loss is not necessarily a sign of good health“, recalls Dr. Cocaul.
Contrary to some popular belief, Mounjaro cannot be obtained freely in France. “No, you must have a prescription“, insists the specialist. Its prescription requires a medical evaluation in order to verify the indications and rule out contraindications. In fact, deviations exist. “I have had patients who were supplied on the internet via foreign markets“, observes the doctor. A situation which is not without risk. There is a real danger in taking this type of medication without medical supervision.
Not reimbursed by Health Insurance, Mounjaro can cost several hundred euros per month, depending on the dosages. This situation fuels strong demand, including among patients who do not necessarily fall within its indications. “The number one request from patients is to lose weight“, concludes Dr Cocaul. In this context, the role of the doctor remains central to supervise the prescription and assess, on a case-by-case basis, the benefit-risk balance.
