Mounjaro, a popular weight loss medication, has become increasingly common, particularly in the U.S., where the use of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) antagonists has skyrocketed by 700% in the last four years. While it’s known for its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels and control hunger by slowing digestion, experts strongly advise against using what’s been dubbed the “golden dose,” the leftover medication in the pen after the prescribed dose.
What is the ‘Golden Dose’?
Each Mounjaro pen contains 3ml of liquid, providing four doses at 0.6ml each. However, due to the design of the pen, a small amount of liquid remains after the final dose, which some users mistakenly refer to as a “bonus” or “golden dose.” This leftover liquid is not an extra dose, but an intentional overfill designed to ensure accurate delivery of each prescribed injection.
Some people are using Mounjaro’s ‘golden dose’ (Peter Dazeley/Getty Images)
Why Should You Avoid Using the ‘Golden Dose’?
- Risk of Underdosing
Dr. Earim Chaudry, Chief Medical Officer at Voy, warns that using the golden dose could result in underdosing, which can disrupt the treatment’s effectiveness. Mounjaro works by recalibrating your body’s response to hunger and fullness, and inconsistent or low doses can stall progress. If you notice slower-than-expected weight loss, increased hunger, or cravings, underdosing may be the cause, potentially leading to frustration and discontinuation of the treatment. - Risk of Overdosing
While the idea of taking the extra liquid may seem like a smart workaround, it’s actually risky. “The pens aren’t designed for precision beyond their intended use,” Dr. Chaudry explains. Using more than the prescribed amount could cause dangerous side effects like severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and, in rare cases, pancreatitis. Overdosing puts your health at significant risk.
Using the ‘golden dose’ could lead to you underdosing (Peter Dazeley via Getty Images)
- Infection Risk with Unsterile or Expired Pens
Dr. Chaudry also emphasizes the dangers of using a pen that’s expired or no longer sterile. An unsterile pen could introduce bacteria, leading to serious infections at the injection site or even a systemic infection. Moreover, expired medication may no longer be effective, which could compromise your treatment.
Conclusion
Experts stress that the leftover medication in Mounjaro pens should not be used as a “golden dose.” To ensure the medication works as intended, always follow the prescribed dosing guidelines and avoid using any extra medication. Proper use of the pen, along with maintaining sterility and checking expiration dates, is essential for both your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.
