Mounjaro™: Uses, Side Effects, and More

  • Mounjaro™ is a prescription medication that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in adults.
  • It is administered as a liquid solution using a pre-filled pen that is injected under the skin (subcutaneously). It is typically taken once a week, with or without meals, at any time of day.
  • Mounjaro™ is a medication that helps to lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin production and decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. It also slows the rate at which food moves through the body, which can help you feel full for longer periods of time.
  • Mounjaro™ has been shown to be effective for weight loss in overweight patients. It is currently being studied in Phase 3 clinical trials for the treatment of weight loss in adults who are overweight, obese, or have weight-related health issues.

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Mounjaro™ Medication

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Mounjaro™ is an injection that is approved by the FDA for use in adults with type 2 diabetes to lower blood sugar levels. It should be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise. In clinical trials, Mounjaro™ has also been found to be effective for weight loss, but it is not currently approved by the FDA as a weight loss medication.

Diabetes is a chronic condition in which the body does not produce or use insulin effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels (HbA1c). Over time, high blood sugar can cause serious health problems, including heart disease, vision loss, and kidney disease.

Mounjaro™ helps to lower blood sugar levels by increasing insulin production and reducing the amount of sugar produced by the liver. It also slows the rate at which food moves through the body, making you feel fuller for longer.

Mounjaro™ (Tirzepatide) is the first dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it works on glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. It can be used as a standalone therapy or in combination with other diabetes medications, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, or SGLT2 inhibitors.

It is not known if Mounjaro™ is safe for use in people who have had pancreatitis.
This medication should not be used by people with type 1 diabetes.
FAQ

What does Mounjaro™ cost with Sunrise?

Our subscription fee is for access to online medical consultations, insurance advocacy, and other plan benefits. If appropriate, a licensed physician will prescribe a prescription treatment as part of your personalized treatment plan. If you have insurance, your co-pay will not be more than $25. Sunrise will give you an itemized receipt for out-of-network reimbursement. The medications prescribed are are HSA and FSA-eligible.

How Sunrise works with Mounjaro™

Our board-certified physician will review your information and speak with you to create a customized treatment plan. Based on your medical history, our physician may prescribe medications that specifically address your biological needs while also reducing your out-of-pocket expenses. We commonly prescribe 7 or more FDA-approved weight loss medications, including Wegovy®, Ozempic®, Mounjaro™, and Contrave®. You can pick up your medications at a local pharmacy or have them delivered directly to your home.

What is Mounjaro’s dosage?

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage of Mounjaro™ for you based on your specific needs. The following are some commonly used dosages, but it is important to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Mounjaro™ is typically administered as an injection once per week. Your doctor may start you on a low dose of the medication and gradually increase the dose after 4 weeks of treatment. This is done to help your body adjust to the medication. If your current dose of Mounjaro™ is not effectively managing your blood sugar levels, your doctor may increase the dose further after another 4 weeks, if necessary. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help minimize the risk of side effects. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions for taking Mounjaro™ and to let them know if you have any concerns about your treatment.

How is Mounjaro™ taken?

Mounjaro™ is a liquid solution that comes in a single-use prefilled pen and is administered as an injection under the skin once per week. You can take your dose with or without food. The injection can be given in the belly, thigh, or upper arm, but it is important to rotate the injection sites to prevent skin irritation. If you would like to inject Mounjaro into your upper arm, you may need someone to help you.

Before starting treatment with Mounjaro™, your doctor or pharmacist will show you how to properly inject the medication. For detailed instructions or a video on how to use Mounjaro™, you can visit the drug manufacturer's website.

If you are also taking insulin along with Mounjaro™, you can inject your doses into the same area of your body, such as your thigh, but it is important to use different injection sites that are a few inches apart to avoid injection site reactions, such as pain or irritation. Do not mix insulin and Mounjaro™ in the same syringe. If you have any questions about administering Mounjaro™, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist.

What are Mounjaro’s side effects?

As with any medication, Mounjaro™ may cause mild or serious side effects. The following lists describe some of the more common side effects that Mounjaro™ may cause, but they are not exhaustive. The side effects of a medication can depend on other health conditions you have and other medications you are taking.

Your doctor or pharmacist can provide you with more information about the potential side effects of Mounjaro™ and suggest ways to help reduce any adverse reactions. It is important to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider, as they can help determine the best course of action to manage them.


Mild side effects

Here is a list of some of the mild side effects that Mounjaro™ may cause:

  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Decreased appetite
  • Constipation
  • Belly pain
  • Injection site reactions
  • Heartburn
  • Mild allergic reaction

Mild side effects of many drugs may resolve on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if they become bothersome, you should speak with your doctor or pharmacist. For a complete list of mild side effects, or to learn about other potential side effects of Mounjaro™, you can consult with your healthcare provider or refer to the medication's prescribing information.

Serious Side Effects

While serious side effects from Mounjaro™ are rare, it is important to be aware of them and to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Pancreatitis (swelling of the pancreas)
  • Kidney problems
  • Gallbladder problems
  • Low blood sugar
  • Severe digestive side effects, such as severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Boxed warning: risk of thyroid cancer
  • Severe allergic reaction

If you experience any serious side effects while taking Mounjaro, it is important to call your doctor right away. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, you should call 911 or your local emergency number. Be sure to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider, as they can help determine the best course of action to manage them.

How does Mounjaro™ work?

Mounjaro™ is a dual-action GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that works as a single molecule to activate the body's receptors for GIP and GLP-1 and improve diabetes management in several ways:

  • It increases insulin production, but only when blood sugar levels are rising, which minimizes the risk of low blood sugar.
  • It reduces the production of sugar by the liver.
  • It slows the rate at which food moves from the stomach to the intestine, helping to manage blood sugars after eating and promoting feelings of fullness.

Studies have shown that Mounjaro™ can have a significant impact on weight loss, A1c levels, and cholesterol in people with type 2 diabetes.

What should be considered before taking Mounjaro™?

When considering treatment with Mounjaro™, it is important to discuss the following with your doctor:

  • Your overall health
  • Any medical conditions you may have

In addition, be sure to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, as some medications may interact with Mounjaro™. This is important to ensure that the medication is safe and effective for you.

Interactions

Interactions can occur when taking medications, vaccines, foods, or other substances with a particular drug, which can alter the way the drug works. It is important to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter types, as well as any vitamins, herbs, or supplements you use before starting treatment with Mounjaro™. Your doctor or pharmacist can advise you on any potential interactions these items may have with Mounjaro™. This information is important to ensure that the medication is safe and effective for you.

Interactions with drugs or supplements


Mounjaro™ can interact with several types of drugs, including insulins (such as insulin glargine and insulin lispro), sulfonylureas (such as glipizide, glyburide, and glimepiride), warfarin, and birth control pills (such as ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone). This list is not exhaustive, and there may be other drugs that can interact with Mounjaro™. Your doctor or pharmacist can provide you with more information about these interactions and any others that may occur with Mounjaro™. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking to ensure that Mounjaro™ is safe and effective for you.

How do I store Mounjaro™?

Mounjaro™ should be stored in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and kept in the original carton to protect it from light. If necessary, single-dose pens can be stored at room temperature for up to 21 days. It is important to store your medication as directed and to understand the proper storage instructions. If you have any questions about how to store Mounjaro™, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist.