Aishwarya's Weight Loss
Stand-up comedian Aishwarya Mohanraj recently shared a detailed account of her personal weight loss journey, opting for transparency over curated online
portrayals. She discussed the health and mental challenges that contributed to her weight gain, which began in early 2021. Initially weighing 51 kg, her weight steadily climbed to nearly 70 kg within months. Aishwarya attributed this not solely to lifestyle factors but also to medical conditions like PCOD and hypothyroidism, which significantly complicated her efforts to manage her weight. The emotional toll was considerable, leading her to withdraw from public life and her online presence due to her dissatisfaction with her appearance. Her struggle was particularly focused on her double chin, which she identified as her primary insecurity. By January 2025, she embarked on a plan involving diet and daily exercise, hoping to achieve a more defined jawline. However, this regimen had to be halted due to a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and elevated uric acid levels, which resulted in further weight gain and significant mental fatigue. It was after consulting with her doctor and reviewing her medical reports in May that she decided to explore alternative avenues for weight management.
Introducing Mounjaro
Aishwarya Mohanraj's transformative weight loss was facilitated by Mounjaro, a weekly injectable medication prescribed for weight management. This treatment yielded rapid and substantial results. She reported losing 1 kg in the first week, followed by a total loss of 4 kg within the first month. Over a period of six months, her total weight loss amounted to 22 kg, bringing her down from 74 kg to 52 kg. Beyond its impact on her weight, Aishwarya noted that Mounjaro also helped regulate her menstrual cycle, an issue she had experienced for years. However, she was upfront about the associated side effects. These included initial bouts of nausea and an intense suppression of appetite, which contributed to the rapid nature of her weight loss. A more concerning side effect she experienced was noticeable hair loss, a direct consequence of the speed of her physical transformation. Despite the positive outcomes regarding her weight and health markers, Aishwarya expressed reservations about recommending Mounjaro to others.
Mounjaro: Use and Costs
Mounjaro is administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection, typically given on the same day each week. It's crucial for patients to adhere to the prescribed schedule for optimal results. If a patient is also using insulin, it's imperative to administer these medications separately and avoid injecting them in close proximity to each other. Healthcare providers advise rotating the injection site with each administration to prevent tissue irritation and ensure effective absorption. Aishwarya Mohanraj highlighted a significant barrier to the accessibility of this treatment: its substantial cost. She indicated that each injection costs approximately ₹4,000, making it a financially demanding option for many individuals. This considerable expense is a critical factor for anyone considering Mounjaro, as consistent use is necessary for sustained results, which can place a significant financial burden on patients over time.
Therapeutic Benefits
Beyond its primary role as a weight loss agent, Mounjaro offers significant cardiovascular benefits. Studies and anecdotal evidence suggest it can contribute to improved heart health by positively influencing cholesterol levels, potentially lowering blood pressure, and reducing the overall risk of developing heart-related complications, particularly those associated with diabetes. These cardioprotective effects are a notable advantage for individuals who may have underlying risk factors for cardiovascular disease. By addressing multiple health aspects simultaneously, Mounjaro presents a more comprehensive approach to health management for some patients, extending its utility beyond just weight reduction. This broader impact on cardiovascular well-being is an important consideration when evaluating the overall profile of the medication.
Adverse Effects
While Mounjaro can be effective, it is associated with a range of common side effects that individuals may experience. These frequently include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or vomiting, and alterations in bowel habits, leading to either diarrhea or constipation. Stomach discomfort, including pain and cramping, along with bloating and increased gas, are also commonly reported. On the more serious, though less frequent, end of the spectrum, there is a risk of developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallbladder difficulties, and kidney problems. These potential adverse events underscore the importance of medical supervision and patient monitoring while undergoing treatment with Mounjaro, as prompt identification and management of side effects are crucial for patient safety and treatment adherence.
Pancreatitis Risks
A critical, though rare, concern associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy, is the potential development of severe pancreatic inflammation, or pancreatitis. This condition requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms to be vigilant about include intense abdominal pain that may radiate to the back. Healthcare regulators, such as the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), emphasize the importance of both patients and healthcare professionals being aware of these warning signs. Dr. Alison Cave, the MHRA’s chief safety officer, has stated that while the probability of these severe side effects is very low, awareness and prompt recognition of symptoms are paramount. Patients experiencing such severe pain should seek urgent medical evaluation to rule out or manage pancreatitis effectively.
