Understanding the interaction between Mounjaro and epilepsy
Mounjaro works by mimicking two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) that help control blood sugar and appetite.
These hormones also have receptors in the brain, which explains why researchers are studying their effects on neurological conditions.
The good news is that Mounjaro doesn’t directly interfere with how anti-seizure medications work.
The main concern is indirect, as Mounjaro slows down how quickly food moves through your stomach, which can affect when and how well oral medications are absorbed.
This means your epilepsy medication might take longer to reach your bloodstream or be absorbed slightly differently.
For most people, this doesn’t cause problems, but it’s something your doctor will want to monitor.
Your neurologist might suggest taking your epilepsy medication at a different time from your Mounjaro injection, or they may want to check your medication levels in your blood more frequently at first.
What the research shows about GLP-1 medications and seizures
Recent research has revealed some unexpected findings about medications like Mounjaro and brain health.
A comprehensive 2024 analysis published in Epilepsia Open examined nearly 200,000 patients across 27 clinical trials.
The researchers found that people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists (the same class as Mounjaro) had a 24% lower risk of developing late-onset seizures and epilepsy compared to those taking placebo.
Animal studies have also shown promising results. Research published in PMC found that semaglutide (a similar medication to Mounjaro) reduced seizure severity and improved cognitive function in epilepsy models.
The researchers believe this works by reducing inflammation in the brain.
These protective effects likely come from GLP-1 receptors in the brain, particularly in the hippocampus, an area heavily involved in both epilepsy and memory.
The medications appear to reduce inflammation and protect brain cells from damage.
While this research is encouraging, it’s important to note that most studies focused on other GLP-1 medications rather than Mounjaro specifically.
We need more research to understand exactly how Mounjaro affects people who already have epilepsy.
Safety considerations and potential risks
While the research is promising, there are some important safety considerations when combining Mounjaro with epilepsy.
The main risk comes from low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia), especially if you don’t have diabetes.
Very low blood sugar can trigger seizures in anyone, but people with epilepsy may be more susceptible.
This is particularly relevant if you’re taking Mounjaro purely for weight loss rather than diabetes management.
Your body isn’t used to the blood sugar fluctuations that can occur, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
Mounjaro can also lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, particularly when starting or increasing doses.
These side effects can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which might affect seizure control.
Some epilepsy medications, particularly the older ones like carbamazepine and phenytoin, speed up how quickly the liver processes other medications. This could theoretically make Mounjaro less effective, though this hasn’t been studied specifically.
Patient experiences shared on forums like Reddit suggest that people with epilepsy can use Mounjaro successfully, though some report needing closer monitoring of their seizure patterns initially.
Monitoring requirements while taking both medications
If you’re taking Mounjaro with epilepsy medications, your healthcare team will likely recommend more frequent check-ups initially.
Blood sugar monitoring becomes particularly important, even if you don’t have diabetes.
Your doctor might suggest checking your blood sugar if you feel unwell, especially in the first month of treatment.
Your neurologist may want to check the levels of your epilepsy medication in your blood more frequently. This helps ensure the medication remains effective and that Mounjaro isn’t affecting absorption.
Keep a seizure diary noting any changes in frequency, intensity, or timing of seizures. This helps your medical team spot any patterns related to starting Mounjaro.
Watch for signs of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, particularly if you experience significant nausea or vomiting.
Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, muscle weakness, or feeling generally unwell.
Most importantly, don’t adjust either medication without speaking to your healthcare team first.
If you’re having concerning symptoms, contact your neurologist or GP rather than stopping medications suddenly.
NHS guidance and getting started
The NHS doesn’t specifically restrict Mounjaro use in people with epilepsy, but you’ll need coordination between different parts of your healthcare team.
Your neurologist should be involved in the decision, particularly if you’re on multiple epilepsy medications or have frequent seizures.
Most neurologists are comfortable with the combination provided there’s appropriate monitoring.
For weight loss, you’ll likely need a private prescription as NHS funding for Mounjaro remains limited.
However, if you have both epilepsy and diabetes, NHS prescription may be possible through your diabetes team, but Mounjaro is being limited to those with the greatest clinical need.
Before starting, ensure that all your doctors are aware of both conditions. Your epilepsy specialist needs to know about the Mounjaro, and whoever prescribes Mounjaro needs your complete epilepsy history.
Many people with epilepsy find the weight loss benefits particularly valuable, as several epilepsy medications commonly cause weight gain.
Valproate, for example, causes weight gain in about 20% of people taking it.
Common questions about Mounjaro and epilepsy
Will Mounjaro interfere with my seizure medication?
Not directly, but it may affect absorption. Your doctor can adjust medication schedules if needed.
Should I be worried about low blood sugar?
Monitor for symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or feeling shaky, especially in the first month.
Keep glucose tablets handy if recommended by your doctor.
Can I stop taking either medication suddenly?
Never stop epilepsy medications suddenly as this can trigger seizures. Always speak to your healthcare team about any medication changes.
How quickly will I know if there are problems?
Most people notice any issues within the first 4-6 weeks. Keep in close contact with your healthcare team during this period.
Take home message
Taking Mounjaro with epilepsy is possible and may even offer some protective benefits for brain health.
While there are no major safety concerns about the combination, the indirect effects on medication absorption and blood sugar levels are worth considering.
Most people with epilepsy can use Mounjaro safely with the right medical oversight.
The potential for weight loss is particularly valuable for people with epilepsy, as many seizure medications cause unwanted weight gain.
With proper planning and monitoring, Mounjaro can be a useful addition to your treatment plan.
Remember that everyone’s situation is different. Work closely with both your neurologist and the doctor prescribing Mounjaro to ensure the combination is right for your specific circumstances.
Second Nature's Mounjaro programme
Second Nature provides Mounjaro as part of our Mounjaro weight-loss programme
Why choose Second Nature over other medication providers, assuming you’re eligible?
Because peace of mind matters.
We’ve had the privilege of working with the NHS for over eight years, helping people across the UK take meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier life.
Our programmes are designed to meet people where they are, whether that means support with weight loss through compassionate one-to-one health coaching, or access to the latest weight-loss medications (like Mounjaro) delivered alongside expert care from a multidisciplinary team of doctors, psychologists, dietitians, and personal trainers.
At the heart of everything we do is a simple belief: real, lasting change comes from building better habits, not relying on quick fixes. We’re here to support that change every step of the way.
With over a decade of experience, thousands of lives changed, and a long-standing record of delivering programmes used by the NHS, we believe we're the UK’s most trusted weight-loss programme.
We hope to offer you something invaluable: peace of mind, and the support you need to take that first step.
