From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is indicated for adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control, alongside diet and exercise, as evidenced by the recent study published in 2023 1. The medication is also approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease. Key points to consider when prescribing Mounjaro include:
- The starting dose is typically 2.5mg injected subcutaneously once weekly for the first month, then gradually increased to a maintenance dose of 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, or 15mg weekly, depending on blood sugar control needs and tolerability.
- Mounjaro works by mimicking two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP, which help regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin secretion when blood sugar is high, slowing stomach emptying, reducing appetite, and decreasing glucagon secretion.
- Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and constipation.
- It should not be used by people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer, Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, or those with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disease. The study published in 2023 1 provides the most recent and highest quality evidence for the indications and usage of Mounjaro, and its findings should be prioritized in clinical decision-making. Other studies, such as the one published in 2008 2, may provide additional information on related topics, but are not directly relevant to the indications for Mounjaro.