From the Guidelines
Mounjaro can potentially cause dyspnea in some patients, and it is essential to monitor patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions closely when starting this medication. The exact mechanism behind Mounjaro-related dyspnea is not fully understood, but it may relate to its effects on GLP-1 and GIP receptors, which have widespread effects throughout the body beyond just blood glucose control 1. Dyspnea has been reported in clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance, although it occurs less frequently than gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If a patient experiences new or worsening shortness of breath while taking Mounjaro, they should contact their healthcare provider immediately, as this could potentially indicate a serious adverse reaction such as pancreatitis or hypersensitivity. Some key points to consider when prescribing Mounjaro include:
- Starting the medication at a lower dose (2.5 mg once weekly by subcutaneous injection) and gradually increasing it to minimize side effects, which may help reduce the risk of experiencing dyspnea
- Monitoring patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions closely when starting Mounjaro
- Educating patients on the potential risks and benefits of Mounjaro, including the risk of dyspnea, and instructing them to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms of a serious adverse reaction. The FDA has issued warnings about pharmacotherapies, including the risk of ketoacidosis with SGLT-2 inhibitors, which may lead to symptoms such as dyspnea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain 1. However, Mounjaro is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, and its safety profile may differ from that of SGLT-2 inhibitors.
From the FDA Drug Label
Counsel patients regarding the potential risk for MTC with the use of MOUNJARO and inform them of symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness).
Dyspnea is listed as a symptom of thyroid tumors, which may be associated with the use of MOUNJARO. However, it is not directly stated that MOUNJARO causes dyspnea. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Mounjaro and Dyspnea
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that suggests Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) causes dyspnea 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- The studies primarily focus on the efficacy and safety of Tirzepatide in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, with common adverse events including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation 2, 3, 5, 6.
- None of the studies mention dyspnea as a potential side effect or adverse event associated with Tirzepatide 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Therefore, based on the available evidence, it cannot be concluded that Mounjaro causes dyspnea 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.