What is Mounjaro®?

Mounjaro is an FDA-approved medication developed for management of type-2 diabetes. The drug was developed by Eli Lilly, one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies and released in June 2022. Eli Lilly specializes in the development of drugs called GLP-1’s, which have been shown to work well in managing insulin levels in type-2 diabetics. Eli Lilly developed the drug Trulicity, based on a molecule called “dulaglutide.” They discovered that in overweight or obese diabetic patients, these drugs were shown to curb appetites and led to remarkable weight loss properties. Mounjaro® is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that may improve clinical outcomes beyond those achieved by GLP-1 agonists.

How does Mounjaro® Work?

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) is known as a dual incretin agonist or a “twincreatin” because it works on the receptors for 2 hunger hormones GIP and GLP-1.Tirzepatide functions as an imbalanced agonist with the greater potency of GIP agonists to complement the binding ability of GLP-1s. After you eat a big meal, your body releases incretin to signal a feeling of fullness. Incretin tells your brain to stop eating.  Mounjaro mimics this hormone, reducing cravings for sugary or unhealthy foods and helps to prevent the effects of insulin resistance. Coupled with diet and exercise, Mounjaro has been shown to have significant weight loss properties.

How do I take Mounjaro®?

Take as a once-weekly injection. It is a prepackaged pen with a needle. You simply place the pen on your stomach or thigh and press down. No medication dosing or handling needles. Injection is relatively painless. Consult a physician before starting any new medication like Mounjaro®.

How much weight might I lose on Mounjaro®?

Mounjaro users with type 2 diabetes lost an average of ~17lbs with diet and exercise over a 40 week period based on Eli Lily's prescribing information. Another clinical study has shown as much as ~22% weight-loss with once weekly 15mg Mounjaro injections. Tirzepatide or any other weight loss medication is not a magic bullet but simply a tool to lower appetite for sustained calorie reduction. There is no perfect medication for obesity. A medication that may work for a family member or a friend may not be the ideal medication for you. Treating obesity can be complicated so it is best to work with a knowledgeable health care professional who is dedicated to working with you over the long term.

Is Mounjaro® FDA-Approved for Weight Loss?

No, Mounjaro® is not yet FDA-approved for weight loss, only for type 2 diabetes. If you choose to take this medication, be sure to understand/consent to the risks involved. See below "Mounjaro Black Box Warning" click the link for additional information.

Mounjaro® Side Effects:

The majority of individuals who take Mounjaro® typically experience minimal side effects. Some side effects are considered low risk. The most frequent side effects that occur with Mounjaro® are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, headache, fatigue, upset stomach, dizziness, bloating, belching or gas, stomach flu, heartburn, and loss of appetite. If any of these side effects become bothersome or persistent, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional. Your medical team can provide guidance and supportive care for any concerns that arise. In the event of severe side effects, such as anaphylaxis or dificulty breathing, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

Mounjaro® Black-Box Warning:

WARNING: RISK OF THYROID C-CELL TUMORS. Tirzepatide causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rats. It is unknown whether MOUNJARO® causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans as the human relevance of tirzepatide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined. MOUNJARO® is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Counsel patients regarding the potential risk of MTC and symptoms of thyroid tumors.

Mounjaro® Packaging Insert:

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf

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