What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro belongs to the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist family of medications.
It’s primarily used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus, in combination with metformin. These treatments are done as part of an overall treatment plan that includes dietary changes and exercise.
Typically, Mounjaro is used in monotherapy when the person has contraindications or an intolerance to metformin.
For more resources, including a full list of the risks and benefits of Mounjaro, please review the product monograph.
How does Mounjaro work?
Mounjaro’s main function is to lower your blood sugar levels, by helping your body release more insulin when your blood sugar is high.
Mounjaro also works by reducing levels of glucagon, which is a hormone in your body that prevents blood sugar from decreasing too much.
What is Mounjaro used to treat?
Mounjaro is primarily used as a treatment for people with type 2 diabetes, in combination with dietary changes and exercise.
In some cases, Mounjaro is used by itself, as part of monotherapy. However, in some cases, it’s used in tandem with other medications.
The most effective treatment plan needs to be determined by a licensed healthcare practitioner, based on each person’s current needs and medical history.
How do you take Mounjaro?
The specific dosage of Mounjaro selected for you will be determined by your healthcare practitioner, but different doses are used the same way.
Mounjaro injections are meant to be used under the skin (subcutaneously), which means you should never inject Mounjaro into muscles or veins.
Follow the instructions on the package of your injection to prepare your dose. The best places to inject Mounjaro are the front of the abdomen (stomach), the front of the thighs, and the upper arms.
You should only ever take your prescribed dose of Mounjaro, and for the medication to work most effectively, it’s best to take it at the same time each week.
How long does Mounjaro last after you take it?
What are the common side effects of Mounjaro?
The most common side effects from taking Mounjaro injections include:
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue or feeling tired
- Gas (flatulence or burping)
- Increased heart rate
- Indigestion
- Reactions at the injection site (i.e., bruising, pain, irritation, itching, and rash)
- Nausea
- Acid reflux or heartburn (gastro-esophageal reflux disease)
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
- Unexpected weight loss
If you start to experience any serious side effects when taking your Mounjaro injections, be sure to talk to your Felix healthcare practitioner. They may be able to suggest alternative dosages or medications that may work better for you
Who shouldn't take Mounjaro?
It’s important to note that certain people shouldn’t use Mounjaro, including:
- People under the age of 18
- People over the age of 65
- People allergic to tirzepatide or any other ingredient in Mounjaro
- People who have had (or have family members who have had) Medullary Thyroid Cancer (MTC)
- People who have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- People who are pregnant or breastfeeding
In addition to this, there are others who should be cautious about using Mounjaro. These are people who:
- Have type 1 diabetes
- Have heart conditions that increase their heart rates
- Have experienced severe allergic reactions in the past to GLP-1 receptor agonists
- Have ever had diabetic ketoacidosis (increased ketones in the blood or urine)
- Have severe stomach problems or issues with digestion
If you believe any of these additional conditions could apply to you, be sure to tell your Felix healthcare practitioner during your assessment. They may be able to suggest alternative medications that could work better for you.
What happens if Mounjaro is taken regularly by men?
Further reading