Charles Barkley has always been a larger-than-life personality, both on the basketball court and behind the sports desk. But lately, it’s his personal health journey that has fans talking. The NBA legend and current broadcaster recently revealed that he’s lost over 60 pounds — and it all started when he began taking the medication Mounjaro.
Let’s take a closer look at Barkley’s weight loss transformation, what Mounjaro actually is, and what health experts are saying about this growing trend.
How much weight did Charles Barkley lose?
Barkley didn’t hold back when he spoke about his weight on The Dan Patrick Show in May. He explained that back in January, he weighed 352 pounds. By the time of the interview, he was down to about 290 pounds.
That’s a huge drop in a short amount of time — more than 60 pounds in less than six months.
He admitted he felt better than he had in years. “You don’t even realize how crappy you feel until you start losing weight,” Barkley said honestly.
What is Mounjaro and how does it work?
Mounjaro, also known by its generic name tirzepatide, was originally made for treating type 2 diabetes. But it’s gaining attention fast for helping with weight loss.
Mounjaro is part of a group of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications work by slowing down how fast your stomach empties and changing how your body responds to hunger.
It’s similar to other drugs you might have heard of — like Ozempic or Wegovy. But only Wegovy is currently approved by the FDA for weight loss. Mounjaro is still used off-label in that space, but it’s quickly becoming a go-to option for some people trying to lose weight.
Is it safe to lose weight that fast?
Dr. Michelle Pearlman, a physician and nutrition specialist, says that while Barkley’s weight loss might sound extreme, it really depends on where someone starts.
“For someone who is already quite overweight, losing that amount may not be as drastic as it sounds,” she explained.
Still, she pointed out that a healthy goal is usually about one to two pounds per week. Barkley’s weight loss is certainly on the faster side, but again, everyone’s body is different.
Is everyone a good fit for weight loss injections?
Not necessarily. According to Dr. Pearlman, these medications aren’t magic. If you’re still eating high-calorie meals at night and not changing your habits, the meds alone might not do much.
“I have patients who think they can eat 2,000 calories at 10 at night and still lose weight just because they’re on the drug. That’s not how it works,” she said.
Kate Regan, a registered dietitian, added that the role of professionals like her is to help people understand both the benefits and the limitations of these drugs. “My job is to give people the information and let them decide what’s best for them,” she said.
What are the side effects of Mounjaro?
Like most medications, Mounjaro comes with a list of possible side effects. These can include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Even for those taking it for diabetes, the way it affects appetite can make it hard to know when you’re hungry or full. That’s why experts say it’s important to keep eating regular, balanced meals — even if you don’t feel hungry.
What about long-term use and cost?
This is where things get a bit tricky. Mounjaro and drugs like it don’t come cheap. In many cases, they’re not covered by insurance, especially if they’re being used for weight loss instead of diabetes.
Dr. Pearlman said some of her patients are paying $1,500 a month. And even when they can afford it, supply issues often delay treatment.
There’s also the question of how long someone needs to stay on the drug. “We just don’t have long-term data yet,” Pearlman said. “We don’t know if this is something people will take for several years or for the rest of their lives.”
Are there other options for weight loss?
Absolutely. According to Dr. Mir Ali, medication is just one tool in the toolbox. Surgery might be more effective for those with significant obesity. For others, lifestyle changes, including nutrition counseling and consistent exercise, can also make a big difference.
The key is to find the approach that works for your body and your lifestyle.
What can we learn from Charles Barkley’s experience?
Barkley’s weight loss is a reminder that transformation is possible at any age. It also shows how important it is to be honest with yourself about your health.
Yes, medications like Mounjaro can help, but they work best when paired with real change — smarter eating, consistent movement, and long-term planning.
Charles said it best: “I feel so good physically. I’ve got to make sure I don’t get fat again.” That kind of mindset — focused on health, not just appearance — is something we can all learn from.
