If you've recently started Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and find yourself reaching for an extra jumper more often than usual, you're not alone.
Feeling unusually cold is a side effect some people experience while taking Mounjaro. While it might not be widely discussed, it can feel unsettling if you're not expecting it.
Let's break it down and explore what might be going on, and what you can do to feel more comfortable.
Can Mounjaro Make You Feel Cold?
Yes, it can. Although not officially listed as a common side effect, many people report feeling cold more than usual, particularly during the early weeks of weight loss treatment. It can feel like a persistent chill, even when everyone else around you seems perfectly warm.
How Common Is Feeling Cold?
There aren't specific statistics for this side effect, as "feeling cold" isn't routinely measured in clinical trials. However, it's a well-noted experience among users, particularly on forums and support groups. It's not guaranteed to happen to everyone, but it's common enough to be worth mentioning.
Why Might Mounjaro Cause Cold Sensitivity?
While there's no single explanation, several factors may contribute:
Eating Less, Producing Less Heat: Mounjaro naturally reduces your appetite. Digesting food generates warmth, and your body also adapts to a smaller intake by running more economically, which can lower your metabolic rate.
Loss of Muscle: Muscle is your most metabolically active tissue and the tissue that shivers to warm you. Protein at every meal and resistance exercise two to three times a week help protect it, and this is the part you can most influence.
Reduced Insulation: As body fat reduces, it slows heat loss less effectively. Cool rooms, draughts and long periods sitting still feel colder, often in the hands and feet first.
How to Manage Feeling Cold on Mounjaro
Here are some practical tips to help you stay warm and comfortable:
Eat Enough, Regularly: undereating is the most common reason for feeling cold on treatment. Aim for regular balanced meals and include a source of protein at each one, which also helps protect muscle.
Check Your Iron, B12 and Thyroid: low iron, low B12 or an underactive thyroid all increase cold sensitivity and are easy to miss during weight loss. Speak to your GP if the cold is persistent, or comes with tiredness, breathlessness or hair thinning.
Keep Moving: walking, stretching or light resistance work boosts circulation and warms you from the inside out.
Layer Up: thermal socks, base layers or fingerless gloves indoors are a simple way to regulate temperature through the day, particularly for cold hands and feet.
Try Warm Meals and Drinks: soups, stews and porridge won't change your body temperature much, but they're comforting and an easy way to get nutrients in when your appetite is low.
Stay Hydrated: if nausea or reduced appetite has cut your fluid intake, dehydration can leave you feeling cold and lightheaded. Keep drinking steadily through the day.
Talk to Us if It's Affecting You: if you're struggling to eat enough or the cold is affecting your quality of life, contact our Patient Care team. A prescriber can review your intake, tolerability and dose escalation with you.
When Should I Seek Medical Advice?
While feeling a bit chilly now and then isn't usually a cause for concern, you should contact your healthcare provider if:
You constantly feel cold, regardless of the environment
Your hands and feet are regularly numb or tingling
You're also feeling weak, tired, or dizzy
You're experiencing very rapid weight loss
You suspect an issue with your thyroid or iron levels
Your comfort and safety come first so don't hesitate to get in touch if something feels off.
Feeling cold on Mounjaro can be unexpected, but it's not uncommon and it's usually manageable. With the right strategies and support, you can stay warm and continue progressing towards your health goals. If you're unsure about anything, speak to our support team - we're here to help.