Aishwarya Mohanraj’s 22kg Weight Loss Journey with Mounjaro: Details & Side Effects

Comedian Aishwarya Mohanraj recently shared her weight loss journey, detailing her experience using the drug Mounjaro. In a 15-minute YouTube video, she described a significant weight gain following her marriage, rising from 51 kg in early 2021 to 72-74 kg within six months. This weight gain, she explained, was compounded by underlying health conditions – polycystic ovary disorder (PCOD) and hypothyroidism – both of which run in her family and contributed to difficulties with weight management.

Mohanraj’s attempts to lose weight were multifaceted. She initially tried various cosmetic procedures, including CoolSculpting, HIFU, RF, Morpheus, and Dermage. She also committed to a rigorous lifestyle regimen, incorporating daily workouts, eliminating junk food, increasing her protein intake, and consistently walking 10,000 steps each day. However, a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis forced her to discontinue her physical activity, prompting her to explore other options, ultimately leading her to Mounjaro.

“That month, I lost 4 kilograms,” Mohanraj stated in the video. “I took this drug every week for 6 months. In these 6 months, my weight reduced from 74 kilograms to 52 kilograms. It’s rapid. It’s mad. It’s crazy and insane.” She also openly discussed the side effects she experienced, including intense nausea and hair loss. She also noted the significant cost of the medication, approximately Rs. 4,000 per shot.

What is Mounjaro and How Does it Work?

Mounjaro, launched in India in March 2025, is a brand name for tirzepatide. It is a prescription medication primarily indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but has gained attention for its weight loss benefits. The drug functions by mimicking the effects of two naturally occurring hormones in the body: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP).

These hormones are released after eating and play a crucial role in regulating both blood sugar levels and appetite. Mounjaro amplifies the impact of these hormones by binding to and activating their respective receptors throughout the body. This dual action influences appetite and satiety, signaling fullness to the brain, curbing hunger, and reducing food cravings, ultimately leading to reduced caloric intake.

Beyond appetite regulation, Mounjaro also slows down gastric emptying – the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This prolonged digestion process contributes to a feeling of fullness after meals and helps to mitigate glucose spikes following food consumption. The medication is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection.

Who Should Not Use Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is not universally suitable and requires a thorough medical evaluation before use. It is a prescription-only medication and should only be considered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Certain individuals should avoid using Mounjaro due to potential health risks.

• Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC): Mounjaro carries a boxed warning regarding the observation of thyroid C-cell tumors in rodent studies.
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2): This genetic condition increases the risk of MTC and other endocrine tumors, making Mounjaro unsafe for individuals with this diagnosis.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Animal studies have demonstrated potential risks of fetal harm, including skeletal abnormalities.
• History of Pancreatitis or Severe Gastrointestinal Disorders: Mounjaro’s slowing of gastric emptying can exacerbate conditions such as gastroparesis, inflammatory bowel disease, or a history of acute pancreatitis.
• Type 1 Diabetes: Mounjaro is not approved or effective for type 1 diabetes and may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used in conjunction with insulin.
• Severe Kidney Impairment: Individuals with severe kidney impairment may be at risk of dehydration due to the gastrointestinal side effects of Mounjaro, such as nausea and diarrhea.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: A history of diabetic retinopathy requires careful monitoring, as rapid glucose control can potentially worsen the condition.

The use of medications like Mounjaro highlights the complex interplay between hormonal regulation, metabolic processes, and weight management. While offering a potential avenue for weight loss, it is crucial to recognize that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution and carries potential risks that must be carefully considered in consultation with a healthcare provider.