Mounjaro:
Important
Safety Information
Mounjaro is a brand name for Tirzepatide, a medication used to manage type 2 diabetes. Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. By mimicking the effects of these incretin hormones, Mounjaro helps to improve blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, enhancing insulin secretion, reducing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting satiety, which can help manage blood sugar levels and support weight loss.
As with any medication, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and benefits associated with Mounjaro and to use it under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure the safe and effective use of compounded medications in your treatment regimen.
What is Mounjaro Used For?
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is used for the following purposes:
Improving Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes
Mounjaro is prescribed to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It works in conjunction with diet and exercise to enhance glycemic control.
Weight Management
While primarily indicated for type 2 diabetes, Tirzepatide has been shown to support weight loss, which can be beneficial for overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes.
Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
Thyroid Tumors in Animals
Studies have shown that Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, caused thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents. This includes a type of thyroid cancer known as medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
Unknown Human Risk
It is not known whether Mounjaro causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including MTC, in humans.
Who Should Not Take Mounjaro?
Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is contraindicated in certain individuals due to potential risks and medical conditions. The following groups of people should not use Mounjaro:
Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
Do not use Mounjaro if you or any of your family members have ever been diagnosed with MTC, a type of thyroid cancer.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2)
Avoid Mounjaro if you have MEN 2, an inherited endocrine system disorder that can cause tumors in the thyroid and other glands.
Severe Allergic Reactions to Tirzepatide or its Ingredients
Do not use Mounjaro if you have had serious hypersensitivity reactions to Tirzepatide or any of its components. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, severe rash or itching, and difficulty breathing.
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Do not use Mounjaro if you have diabetic ketoacidosis, a serious complication of diabetes characterized by high blood sugar and the presence of ketones in the urine.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Mounjaro during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
History of Pancreatitis
Use caution if you have a history of pancreatitis. Mounjaro has not been studied extensively in patients with a history of this condition, and there may be an increased risk of developing pancreatitis.
Severe Gastrointestinal Disease
Avoid Mounjaro if you have severe gastrointestinal disease, especially gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying), as it may worsen symptoms.
How Should Mounjaro be Administered?
- Mounjaro is typically administered once a week.
- Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual health needs.
- Mounjaro is given as a subcutaneous injection.
- Recommended injection sites include the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
- Rotate injection sites with each dose to reduce the risk of irritation or other skin issues.
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab.
- Pinch the skin at the injection site to create a fold.
- Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle (or as advised by your healthcare provider).
- Inject the medication slowly and steadily.
- Remove the needle and apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a clean cotton ball or gauze.
Foods to Avoid While Taking Mounjaro
While taking Mounjaro, it’s important to be mindful of certain dietary considerations to optimize its effectiveness and minimize potential side effects. Here are some foods to avoid or limit while taking Mounjaro:
- Avoid consuming high-fat foods, as they can increase gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea.
- Limit intake of sugary foods and drinks, which can interfere with blood sugar control.
- Reduce consumption of refined carbs, which can spike blood sugar levels.
- Limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and exacerbate side effects.
Common Side Effects of Mounjaro
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Decreased appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Headache
Most Serious Side Effects of Mounjaro
You or a caregiver must diligently monitor for these potential adverse reactions, especially when starting treatment or adjusting doses.
Thyroid C-Cell Tumors:
Rare but potential risk of thyroid cancer, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). Seek medical attention if you experience neck swelling, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Pancreatitis:
Inflammation of the pancreas can occur, leading to severe abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back, along with vomiting.
Hypoglycemia:
Low blood sugar levels may occur, especially when combined with other glucose-lowering medications.
Acute Kidney Injury:
Dehydration due to gastrointestinal symptoms may exacerbate kidney problems. Ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
Serious Allergic Reactions:
Immediate medical attention is needed if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; severe rash or itching; difficulty breathing; or fainting.
Diabetic Retinopathy Complications:
Report any changes in vision promptly to your healthcare provider.
Increased Heart Rate:
Notify your healthcare provider if you experience a rapid heartbeat while at rest.
Suicidal Behavior and Ideation:
Monitor for changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Note
Please note that these warnings serve to highlight specific risks associated with Mounjaro and are not comprehensive. Healthcare providers should review the full prescribing information for Mounjaro and consider individual patient factors before prescribing this medication. Patients should consult their healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations regarding the use of Mounjaro and the management of any potential risks.
