From the Research
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) should be started at a dose of 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly for the first 4 weeks, then increased to 5 mg once weekly for another 4 weeks, with potential further increases in 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks up to a maximum of 15 mg once weekly, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The dosing schedule for Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is designed to help patients adjust to the medication and minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- The initial dose of 2.5 mg is intended to be administered for the first 4 weeks.
- After 4 weeks, the dose is increased to 5 mg once weekly for another 4 weeks.
- If additional glycemic control is needed and the patient is tolerating the medication well, the dose can be increased in 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks until reaching the maximum recommended dose of 15 mg once weekly.
- The typical progression would be from 5 mg to 7.5 mg, then to 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and finally 15 mg, with each dose level maintained for at least 4 weeks before considering an increase, as indicated in the study 2. It's essential to administer the injection on the same day each week, though the day can be changed if necessary as long as the last dose was given at least 3 days (72 hours) prior, as noted in the study 3.
- The medication should be injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and injection sites should be rotated.
- If a dose is missed, patients should administer it as soon as possible if there are at least 3 days (72 hours) until the next scheduled dose; otherwise, they should skip the missed dose and administer the next dose on the regularly scheduled day, as recommended in the study 4. The most recent study 1 provides the highest quality evidence for the dosing schedule of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), and its findings support the recommended dosing schedule.
- The study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of tirzepatide in achieving better glycemic control and reducing body weight, with acceptable side effects and a low risk of hypoglycemia.
- The study also highlights the potential future indications for tirzepatide in the management of obesity, heart failure, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.