MOUNJARO® (Tirzepatide) Injection

Available Strengths: 2.5 mg/0.5 mL, 5 mg/0.5 mL, 7.5 mg/0.5 mL, 10 mg/0.5 mL, 12.5 mg/0.5 mL, and 15 mg/0.5 mL (pre-filled, single-dose injection pens).

Description

MOUNJARO® (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication containing tirzepatide, the first dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Tirzepatide enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses inappropriate glucagon release, delays gastric emptying, and increases satiety, resulting in improved blood glucose control and clinically significant weight reduction in many patients.

Clinical trials have demonstrated that tirzepatide significantly reduces HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, and body weight while offering a low intrinsic risk of hypoglycemia when used alone. The greatest benefits are observed when combined with healthy dietary habits, regular physical activity, and comprehensive diabetes management. Major diabetes organizations recognize GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual incretin therapies as important treatment options for adults with type 2 diabetes, particularly those who also have overweight, obesity, or cardiovascular risk factors.

Indications

MOUNJARO is indicated:

• As an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• It may be used alone or in combination with other antidiabetic medications when appropriate.
• It is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus.
• It has not been adequately studied in patients with a history of pancreatitis, and caution is advised.

Available Concentrations

• 2.5 mg/0.5 mL
• 5 mg/0.5 mL
• 7.5 mg/0.5 mL
• 10 mg/0.5 mL
• 12.5 mg/0.5 mL
• 15 mg/0.5 mL

All strengths are administered once weekly by subcutaneous injection into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

Mechanism of Action

Tirzepatide acts by activating both:

• GIP receptors
• GLP-1 receptors

This dual incretin activity helps to:

• Increase glucose-dependent insulin secretion
• Reduce glucagon secretion during hyperglycemia
• Delay gastric emptying
• Increase satiety and reduce caloric intake
• Promote clinically meaningful weight loss
• Improve insulin sensitivity indirectly through weight reduction

Clinical Benefits

When used as prescribed alongside lifestyle modification, MOUNJARO may help:

• Improve HbA1c levels
• Lower fasting and post-meal blood glucose
• Promote substantial body weight reduction
• Improve insulin sensitivity
• Reduce appetite and food intake
• Support long-term glycemic control
• Improve several cardiometabolic risk factors through weight reduction

Clinical benefits vary among individuals.

Dosage and Administration

• Starting dose:
  • 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks (used for treatment initiation and gastrointestinal tolerability; not intended for glycemic control).
• After 4 weeks:
  • Increase to 5 mg once weekly.
• If additional glycemic control is needed:
  • Increase by 2.5 mg increments every ≥4 weeks.
• Maximum recommended dose:
  • 15 mg once weekly.

The injection may be administered at any time of day, with or without meals, on the same day each week.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported adverse effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Dyspepsia (indigestion)
• Injection-site reactions
• Fatigue

Most gastrointestinal symptoms occur during dose escalation and often diminish over time.

Serious Warnings

Use with caution or avoid in patients with:

• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
• Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2)
• Previous serious hypersensitivity to tirzepatide
• Severe gastrointestinal disease (including severe gastroparesis)
• Suspected pancreatitis
• Gallbladder disease
• Acute kidney injury related to severe dehydration

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe abdominal pain suggestive of pancreatitis or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Drug Interactions

Healthcare professionals should monitor patients when tirzepatide is used with:

• Insulin
• Sulfonylureas (risk of hypoglycemia)
• Oral medications requiring rapid gastrointestinal absorption, as delayed gastric emptying may affect absorption

Storage

• Refrigerate at 2°C–8°C.
• Do not freeze.
• Protect from light.
• If needed, the pen may be kept at room temperature according to the manufacturer's storage recommendations before use.

​Patient Disclaimer

This medication should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. MOUNJARO® (tirzepatide) is a prescription medicine and is not suitable for everyone. Do not start, stop, or change your dose without consulting your physician. Report persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, symptoms of allergic reactions, or signs of dehydration immediately. This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.