Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)

What is Tirzepatide and how does it work?

Tirzepatide, the generic version of Mounjaro, is an FDA-approved antidiabetic medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and has shown promising results in studies to help with weight loss even for people without diabetes. 

Tirzepatide differs from other weight loss medications because it mimics two incretins, GLP- 1 (glycogen-like protein) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors, while others only mimic one incretin (GLP-1). Being a receptor agonist, Tirzepatide leads to improved blood sugar control, thus it can cause more weight loss than other alternatives.

Tirzepatide helps manage weight loss by decreasing blood glucose levels, slowing stomach emptying, and suppressing appetite. It works best with a healthier lifestyle through exercise and balanced diet.

How frequently do I take my medication?

Tirzepatide is administered through subcutaneous injection once a week and may be taken in the morning, afternoon, or evening; depending on your schedule. However, it is not recommended to be taken on an empty stomach.

What if I miss a dose?

Missed a dose? You don’t have to worry too much about missing a dose as the medication has a 4-day window of time to take your dose and stay on track with your dosing regimen. If 5 days has passed since your dosing date, we recommend skipping the current week and resume the medication on your next regular dosing day the following week.

What are the most common side effects of Tirzepatide?

Like any medication, Tirzepatide can cause side effects especially when the body is still adjusting to the medication. Most of them are mild and usually go away in no time, however, if these side effects persist or become severe, please contact your healthcare provider who prescribed the medication immediately.

The following are some of the common side effects of Tirzepatide: 

• • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal Pain
  • Appetite Loss
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Upset Stomach

What are the more serious side effects of Tirzepatide?

The following potentially the less common but more serious side effects of Tirzepatide that needs immediate attention: 

• • Pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder Disease (may include gallstones)
  • Kidney Problems
  • Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
  • Hypersensitivity
  • Severe Allergic Reaction
  • Thyroid Cancer

When you experience any of these, please stop using the medication and contact your doctor immediately.

How effective is Tirzepatide for weight loss?

As of May, 2023, Tirzepatide is not FDA approved as a weight loss drug. It is being used off-lable for the weight loss purposes. Tirzepatide has been shown in several clinical trials to lead to significant weight over 9.5% to 16.0% from baseline.  Another clinical trial with over 2,500 people with obesity reported that they experienced significant loss of weight up to 20% with weekly dose of Tirzepatide over 72 weeks.

It is important to note that the effectivity of Tirzepatide depends on person to person, and on factors such as diet, exercise, and an individual’s response to the medication.

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