Title: Why Some Companies Are Unsuitable for Mounjaro Maintenance: The Sudden BMI Cut Off Issue
Monj has received numerous reports that some companies immediately hit a “BMI cut off” that’s not made clear to patients without warning, cutting off weight loss medication.
In recent years, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have transformed the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. These medications have proven highly effective in helping patients lose weight and improve metabolic health. However, as demand grows, so does scrutiny over how they are prescribed. One contentious issue is the practice of some companies and healthcare providers stopping Mounjaro prescriptions once a patient reaches a BMI of 23–24, a range considered “normal.” While this may seem reasonable, it raises concerns about long-term maintenance and patient centred care.
The BMI Cut Off: A Rigid Approach
Body Mass Index (BMI) is widely used to categorise as underweight, normal weight, over weight, or “Qbese”. However, BMI has significant limitations. It doesn’t account for muscle mass, bone density, body composition, or fat distribution—factors crucial to assessing health. A BMI of 23–24 may be “normal,” but it doesn’t reflect every patient’s unique needs or metabolic profile. To Cut off BMI’s at this range immediately, rather than planning maintenance seem short-sighted and potentially detrimental.
For those who’ve lost weight with Mounjaro, maintaining that loss can be challenging. Weight regain is common, especially for patients with a history of obesity or metabolic disorders. To cut off BMI 23–24 suddenly, overlooks the complexity of weight maintenance and the potential need for ongoing support. This rigid approach can leave patients vulnerable to weight rebound, which may lead to the return of diabetes, hypertension, and other obesity-related conditions.
The Importance of Maintenance Therapy
Mounjaro and similar medications aren’t just for weight loss—they’re also valuable for weight maintenance. Research shows that GLP-1 receptor agonists help regulate appetite, improve insulin sensitivity, and support metabolic health long-term. For many patients, stopping the medication too soon can disrupt these benefits, leading to increased hunger, metabolic imbalances, and eventual weight regain.
Maintenance therapy is a well-established concept in medicine. Patients with hypertension or diabetes, for example, often stay on medications indefinitely to manage their conditions. Similarly, those who’ve struggled with obesity may need ongoing support to maintain their progress. By imposing a strict BMI cutoff, some companies and providers fail to recognise obesity as a chronic condition requiring personalised, long-term care.
Risks of Stopping Mounjaro Too Soon
Stopping Mounjaro abruptly at a BMI of 23–24 can have unintended consequences. Patients may experience a sudden return of appetite and cravings, making it harder to maintain healthy habits. This can lead to frustration, reduced motivation, and a sense of failure, increasing the risk of weight regain.
The psychological impact of discontinuing a life-changing medication shouldn’t be underestimated. For many, reaching a “normal” BMI is a huge achievement. Removing the support that helped them get there can feel like abandonment, potentially undermining their confidence and commitment to maintaining their progress.
A Call for Patient-Centred Care Instead of to Just “Cut Off”
The practice of stopping Mounjaro at a BMI of 23–24 highlights a broader issue in healthcare: overreliance on rigid guidelines at the expense of individualised care. While BMI can be useful, it shouldn’t be the sole factor in treatment decisions. Providers should consider a patient’s medical history, metabolic health, weight loss journey, and personal goals.
Companies and providers using a one-size-fits-all approach risk compromising patient outcomes. A more patient-centred model would involve ongoing assessment and collaboration, adjusting treatment as needed. This might include tapering dosages, transitioning to a maintenance plan, or exploring other supportive therapies.
Exploring Alternative Providers With Lower “BMI Cut Off”
For patients seeking long-term support, it’s worth exploring alternative providers. Many healthcare platforms and clinics now offer tailored maintenance plans for medications like Mounjaro. These providers often focus on individual needs rather than rigid BMI cutoffs, ensuring patients receive the ongoing care they require.
If you’re concerned about maintaining your progress, visit the Mounjaro Maintenance Page to find providers who prioritise patient-centred care. These alternatives can help you sustain your weight loss and metabolic health without the limitations imposed by arbitrary BMI thresholds.
Conclusion
Finally, Mounjaro has been transformative for many patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes. However, discontinuing the medication at a BMI of 23–24 is a flawed approach that ignores the complexities of weight maintenance and the chronic nature of obesity. Companies and providers must move beyond rigid cut-offs and adopt personalised, patient-centred care.
The goal should be overall health and well-being, not just hitting a specific BMI. For many, this means continuing Mounjaro or similar therapies beyond a BMI of 23–24. By exploring alternative providers and advocating for tailored care, patients can achieve lasting success. The big players in the healthcare industry must adapt to meet these needs, ensuring better outcomes for all.
Here is a links to Eli Lilly’s patient pamphlet on Mounjaro
If you have any information or have experienced this, please let us know! Some pharmacies are not forthcoming with this type of information – please drop Monj a message