What is the initial dose for Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss?

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Last updated: May 9, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

The initial dose of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss is 2.5 mg is not supported by the provided evidence, however, the dose range for tirzepatide is 15 mg weekly for diabetes or weight loss as per 1. However, the provided evidence does not specify the initial dose for weight loss. Considering the information provided in the evidence, the dose range for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is 15 mg weekly for diabetes or weight loss as per 1. Some key points to consider when prescribing Mounjaro (tirzepatide) include:

  • Administration route: subcutaneous
  • Pharmacokinetics: not fully specified in the provided evidence
  • Total dose range: 15 mg weekly for diabetes or weight loss
  • Bioavailability: 80% for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) as per 1
  • Volume of distribution: 24 l for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) as per 1
  • Fraction bound to plasma protein: 10.3% for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) as per 1
  • Elimination half-life: 5 days for tirzepatide (Mounjaro) as per 1 It is essential to consult the prescribing information and relevant clinical guidelines for the most up-to-date recommendations on dosing and administration of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss. In clinical practice, the dose of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) may need to be adjusted based on individual patient factors, such as response to treatment and tolerability. Patients should be closely monitored for potential side effects and adjustments made as necessary to minimize risks and optimize benefits. The medication should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for optimal weight loss results.

From the FDA Drug Label

The recommended starting dosage of MOUNJARO is 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly. The initial dose for Mounjaro for weight loss is 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly 2.

  • The dosage is for treatment initiation and is not intended for glycemic control.
  • After 4 weeks, the dosage can be increased to 5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly. Key points to consider:
  • The maximum dosage of MOUNJARO is 15 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly.
  • If a dose is missed, instruct patients to administer MOUNJARO as soon as possible within 4 days (96 hours) after the missed dose 2.

From the Research

Initial Dose for Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) for Weight Loss

  • The initial dose for Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is not explicitly stated in the provided studies as a single, specific dose for weight loss.
  • However, the studies mention that tirzepatide is administered via subcutaneous injection once a week, with doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg being used in clinical trials 3, 4, 5.
  • In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, participants received tirzepatide at doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg once weekly, with a 20-week dose-escalation period 4, 5.
  • The studies suggest that the dose of tirzepatide may be escalated over time, with the 5 mg dose being the starting point and the dose being increased to 10 mg and then 15 mg as needed and tolerated 4, 5.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Tirzepatide for Obesity Treatment and Diabetes Prevention.

The New England journal of medicine, 2024

Research

Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity.

The New England journal of medicine, 2022

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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