From the FDA Drug Label
The recommended starting dosage of MOUNJARO is 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly. Follow the dosage escalation below to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. The 2. 5 mg dosage is for treatment initiation and is not intended for glycemic control. After 4 weeks, increase the dosage to 5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly. If additional glycemic control is needed, increase the dosage in 2. 5 mg increments after at least 4 weeks on the current dose. The maximum dosage of MOUNJARO is 15 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly.
The dosing schedule for MOUNJARO after being on Ozempic is to start with 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly, and then escalate the dosage as needed to a maximum of 15 mg. The key points are:
- Start with 2.5 mg for 4 weeks
- Increase to 5 mg after 4 weeks
- Increase by 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks as needed for glycemic control
- Maximum dosage is 15 mg once weekly 1 1
From the Research
When transitioning from Ozempic to Mounjaro, start with the lowest dose of Mounjaro (2.5 mg) once weekly for the first month, regardless of your previous Ozempic dose, as this approach is supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 2. After the first month, increase to 5 mg once weekly for at least another month. Subsequent dose increases should follow your healthcare provider's guidance, typically increasing by 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks as needed and tolerated, up to the maximum dose of 15 mg weekly. Allow at least 7 days between your last Ozempic injection and your first Mounjaro injection to minimize side effects. Both medications work similarly (Ozempic contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, while Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist), but Mounjaro's dual-action mechanism may provide different effects and potentially stronger blood sugar and weight management benefits, as demonstrated in a study comparing tirzepatide and semaglutide 3. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which often improve over time. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions, as they may customize your dosing schedule based on your individual response and medical history. Some key points to consider when transitioning include:
- The importance of gradual dose escalation to minimize side effects
- The potential for improved glycemic control and weight loss with Mounjaro compared to Ozempic, as seen in studies such as 4 and 5
- The need for ongoing monitoring and adjustment of the treatment plan to optimize outcomes and minimize adverse effects, as highlighted in 6.