Experts Warn Against Dangerous ‘Golden Dose’ Hack with Mounjaro Weight-Loss Drug

As demand for the weight-loss drug Mounjaro (tirzepatide) grows in the UK, experts are warning users not to attempt the risky “Golden Dose” hack. This unsafe practice, widely discussed on social media, involves extracting an extra dose from the KwikPen injector. Pharmacists and health officials have labeled the method as dangerous and potentially harmful.

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What Happened?

Mounjaro users, who typically receive four weekly doses through the KwikPen injector, are trying to remove leftover liquid from the device, calling it the “Golden Dose.” This extra amount is not part of the prescribed treatment and poses serious safety risks.

The trend comes amid growing shortages of the drug in the UK, with prices set to rise from £122 to £330 per month starting September 1, 2025. The combination of limited availability and rising costs has pushed some patients toward unsafe methods.

What is the ‘Golden Dose’?

The Golden Dose refers to the small amount of leftover medication in the KwikPen, which is normally used only to prime the device before injections. Some users are trying to withdraw this liquid using syringes or improvised tools, assuming it provides a full extra dose.

However, pharmacists and Eli Lilly (the drug manufacturer) stress that the KwikPen is designed for only four accurate doses. Any attempt to extract extra medication is unsafe and not supported by medical guidance.

Background and Timeline

• Mounjaro KwikPen: Designed to deliver four weekly injections.
• Priming Liquid: Exists only for proper device functioning—not for additional doses.
• Social Media Influence: YouTube tutorials and online forums have promoted the hack, increasing risks.
• Price Hike: Eli Lilly will raise prices on September 1, 2025, fueling stockpiling behavior.
• Shortages: Major UK pharmacies like Superdrug and ASDA have reported running out of stock.

Social Media Buzz and Public Reaction

On platforms like Facebook and YouTube, some users share step-by-step hacks to extract the Golden Dose, while others raise serious safety concerns. Even eBay UK listings for “Golden Dose plungers” have surfaced, encouraging the trend.
One user posted: “Waiting for my next delivery—Golden Dose might be the only way.”

Expert and Official Warnings

Olivier Picard, President of the National Pharmacy Association, called the practice “completely unacceptable,” warning of risks such as plastic or glass contamination, incorrect dosing, and severe side effects.
Pharmacies like ASDA and Family Chemists urge customers to follow prescriptions strictly. Reported overdose symptoms include nausea, constipation, and diarrhea.
Eli Lilly confirmed that leftover liquid in the KwikPen cannot provide a full dose and emphasized: “The pen must be discarded after four doses or within 30 days of opening.”

What Happens Next?

With shortages continuing and price hikes looming, demand for Mounjaro will likely stay high. Health officials warn patients to avoid unsafe hacks and instead consult medical professionals for guidance.

Conclusion

The “Golden Dose” hack is not only ineffective but also dangerous. Experts urge users to stick to prescribed doses, avoid risky social media trends, and seek professional medical advice rather than experimenting with unsafe methods.