What to expect from Mounjaro: setting your weight loss goals and understanding doses
Peter Paumgardhen | Last update: 29th January 2026
Thinking about starting Mounjaro or already a few weeks in? Understanding how this weight loss drug works, and what to expect in the weeks and months ahead, can make a big difference to your results.
This article walks you through typical weight loss targets, the titration (dose adjustment) schedule, how long you might stay on each dose, how side effects may shift over time, and how to plan for life after Mounjaro.
Start slow, think long term
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is not a quick fix. It’s a tool to help you lose weight steadily and reset your appetite, but it works best alongside changes to your eating habits, movement, and mindset.
You’ll start on a low dose, 2.5 mg once a week, and gradually move up over time. This is known as titration. The aim is to find the dose that gives you the best weight loss results with manageable side effects.
Typical Mounjaro dose schedule
The usual titration pathway looks like this:
| Week(s) | Dose | Notes |
| 1–4 | 2.5 mg | Starting dose — this dose helps your body adjust and is not intended for weight loss. |
| 5–8 | 5 mg | First dose for active weight loss. Some people stay here if results are good. |
| 9–12 | 7.5 mg | Usually where side effects can return. Watch how your body responds. |
| 13–16+ | 10 mg and above | Further dose increases up to 15 mg if needed — always based on how you’re doing. |
Your prescriber will usually increase your dose every 4 weeks, if you’re tolerating it well and losing less than expected. Some people stay longer on a dose to reduce side effects. That’s OK too.
Read: Weight loss drug side effects and how to manage them
What kind of weight loss can I expect?
In clinical trials, over 18 months:
- Average weight loss on 10 mg of Mounjaro: around 21% of body weight
- Average loss on 15 mg: up to 22.5%
That means a person weighing 100 kg could lose 20–22 kg or more over time. But these are averages. Some lose less, others more. And it takes time — these trials were over 72 weeks, so plan your weight loss and expectations accordingly.
“The first few weeks felt slow, but once I hit 7.5 mg, the weight really started to shift.” Amanda, SlimrChat member
Do I have to increase every 4 weeks?
No, your journey is individual. Many people stay on 5 mg for longer than 4 weeks. Some even stay there permanently if it works for them.
Reasons to delay moving up a dose:
- You’re still losing weight steadily
- Side effects are strong (nausea, fatigue, etc.)
- You’re struggling to eat enough protein or calories
Remember: slower titration = fewer side effects. Rushing into high dosage can cause unpleasant symptoms or increase dropout risk.
Read: 10 tips to overcome side effects
What dose is best for long-term use?
There’s no single best dose for everyone, the ideal maintenance dose is the lowest dose that gives you consistent weight loss and good appetite control.
Some people maintain well at 5 mg or 7.5 mg. Others need 10 mg or even 15 mg.
You and your prescriber will work together to find what suits you.
When and how to come off Mounjaro
Most people stay on Mounjaro for at least 6 months, often longer – and some may remain on it long term.
But if you’re reaching your target weight or want to stop for another reason, here’s what to expect:
| Step | What to do |
| 1 | Talk to your prescriber about tapering – you may drop to a lower dose before stopping. |
| 2 | Make sure you’ve built solid eating habits – focus on high protein, fibre, and regular meals. |
| 3 | Plan a transition – some users report cravings and hunger returning after stopping. |
Read: How to maintain weight loss after stopping Mounjaro
Side effects and dose changes
Increasing your dose can bring back nausea, tiredness, reflux, or constipation. That’s normal – it’s your body adjusting.
If side effects are intense, you can:
- Pause at your current dose for longer
- Drop back to the previous dose
- Try simple tricks like switching injection day or taking smaller meals
Read more: Feeling tired on weight loss drugs
Planning ahead: your next 6 months on Mounjaro
Use this table to map out your possible path. Remember – everyone’s journey is different.
| Month | Typical dose | Focus |
| 1 | 2.5 mg | Adjusting, learning new habits |
| 2 | 5 mg | Starting weight loss, managing hunger |
| 3 | 7.5 mg | Testing higher dose if weight loss slows |
| 4–6 | 10–15 mg | Sustained loss, building a new lifestyle |
| 6+ | Maintenance or tapering | Focus shifts to maintaining or coming off safely |
Final word from SlimrChat
Setting goals on Mounjaro isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about progress at your pace, learning what your body responds to, and using this time to build habits that last.
The dose schedule is a tool, not a race. Some weeks you’ll lose more, some less but if you stay consistent, listen to your body, and use this time to reset how you eat and live, the results will follow.
Read more from the manufacturers (Eli Lilly) website here