From the Guidelines
Mounjaro is a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, containing the active ingredient tirzepatide, which belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists. Mounjaro is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, with starting doses typically at 2.5 mg for the first 4 weeks, then gradually increasing to 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, or 15 mg based on blood sugar control and tolerance 1. The medication works by mimicking the effects of natural hormones that regulate blood sugar, helping to increase insulin secretion when blood sugar is high, slow stomach emptying, and reduce appetite. While primarily approved for diabetes management, Mounjaro has gained attention for its significant weight loss effects, and in late 2023, the same molecule (tirzepatide) was approved under the brand name Zepbound specifically for weight management. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, constipation, and stomach discomfort. Patients should be aware that Mounjaro requires refrigeration before first use and should discuss potential drug interactions with their healthcare provider, especially if taking insulin or other medications that lower blood sugar. According to recent studies, GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Mounjaro, have been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular outcomes and renal outcomes, in addition to improving glycemic control 1. However, it is essential to consider the potential risks and benefits of Mounjaro, as well as individual patient factors, when making treatment decisions. Overall, Mounjaro is a valuable treatment option for adults with type 2 diabetes, offering improved glycemic control and potential benefits for weight loss and cardiovascular health.
From the FDA Drug Label
MOUNJARO (tirzepatide) injection, for subcutaneous use, contains tirzepatide, a once weekly GIP receptor and GLP-1 receptor agonist. Mounjaro is a subcutaneous injection that contains tirzepatide, a once-weekly GIP receptor and GLP-1 receptor agonist 2.
- It is used for subcutaneous use.
- The active ingredient is tirzepatide.
- Mounjaro is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow, sterile, preservative-free solution 2.
From the Research
What is Mounjaro
- Mounjaro is a dual incretin agonist of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors, also known as tirzepatide 3, 4, 5, 6.
- It is approved for use as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycaemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in several countries, including the USA, EU, and Japan 3, 5.
- Mounjaro comes in single-dose prefilled pens and single-dose vials, and is administered via once-weekly subcutaneous injection 3.
Mechanism of Action
- Tirzepatide activates the GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which are key mediators of insulin secretion and also play a role in nutrient and energy metabolism 4, 5.
- The activation of these receptors leads to improved insulin secretion, decreased glucagon secretion, and enhanced satiety, resulting in improved glycaemic control and weight loss 4, 6.
Efficacy and Safety
- Clinical trials have shown that tirzepatide is effective in reducing HbA1c and body weight in adults with T2DM, with significant improvements in glycaemic control and weight loss compared to other GLP-1 receptor agonists and insulin therapy 3, 4, 6.
- Tirzepatide has been shown to be generally well-tolerated, with a low risk of hypoglycaemia and a safety profile consistent with that of GLP-1 receptor agonists 3, 6.
- Common adverse events associated with tirzepatide include gastrointestinal events such as nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting 3, 4.