Television presenter Jeremy Clarkson has made a candid confession about his health, stating that a popular weight loss medication is "eating my muscles".
The Muscle-Loss Side Effect
In a recent column for The Times, the former Top Gear host discussed his use of the drug Mounjaro, also known as Tirzepatide. While reflecting on New Year's resolutions and the difficulty of 'living clean', Clarkson revealed that scientific research had shown the treatment was causing him to lose muscle mass. To counter this effect, he said he "absolutely must" start weight training.
However, the 65-year-old admitted he is unwilling to follow this advice. "So what am I going to do about that? Come off Mounjaro probably," he wrote, adding, "I really can't abide being out of breath."
Rapid Weight Loss and a Plateau
Clarkson has previously hailed Mounjaro as an "astonishing" drug, telling The Sun it helped him lose an impressive three stone in just six months. He humorously noted that his shoes were now too big, suggesting he might be "the first person in the world to lose weight on my feet".
Despite the success, he confirmed his weight loss has now plateaued, though he continues the treatment to manage his appetite. Online pharmacy Chemist4U supports his experience, explaining that studies indicate up to a third of weight lost on such medications can be from non-fat mass, including muscle and bone.
Other Side Effects and Personal Impact
Speaking further about his experience, Clarkson said he had avoided common side effects like constipation. On the topic of diminished libido, he quipped, "I'm 65 - it's hard to know what's causing that."
He did concede, however, to feeling "a little bit duller and not quite as sharp," with his girlfriend Lisa Hogan reportedly observing he had become slightly grumpier since starting the treatment.
The NHS states that Mounjaro works by making patients feel full and slowing stomach emptying. Clarkson's frank admission highlights the complex trade-offs involved in using powerful pharmaceutical aids for weight management.
