About Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)
| Medication Name | Mounjaro Pen |
| Active Ingredient | Tirzepatide |
| Medication form | Pre-filled Injection |
| Used to treat | Type 2 Diabetes Weight Loss |
| Available dosages | Pre-filled, single-dose pen delivers doses of 2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg or 15mg |
| Other names by which this medication is known | Mounjaro Weight Loss Pen Mounjaro Weight Loss Injection |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, decreased appetite, indigestion, allergic reaction, constipation, stomach pain, tiredness, increased pulse, dizziness, feeling bloated, belching, gas and heartburn. |
| Who is this medication suitable for | Adults over the age of 18 with: – BMI over 30 – BMI over 27 with weight-related medical problems |
| Do you need a prescription for it? | Yes |
| How should it be used? | Use once a week on the same day each week |
| Patient Information Leaflet | Mounjaro Patient Information Leaflet |
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a new weight loss injection authorised for weight loss and management in the US. Initially a type 2 diabetes treatment, it contains the active ingredient Tirzepatide. When taking Mounjaro for weight loss, patients use one Mounjaro pen per week for their treatment and must follow a diet and exercise plan for best results.
Mounjaro Dosage Options
Mounjaro pens come in different dose options, so you and your healthcare provider can find the best dose to suit your treatment.
New patients start on 2.5mg and move up to 5mg after 4 weeks. Once you have settled on 5mg, we will work with you to decide if you need to increase to a higher dose of 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg or 15mg. Each time your dose increases, you need to remain on it for 4 weeks before increasing.
How do Mounjaro weight loss injections work?
Mounjaro weight loss injections contain the active ingredient Tirezepatide, which imitates two hormones: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones slow digestion, so food takes longer to pass through your digestive system. They also reduce your appetite, so you feel fuller for longer and eat less.
How effective is Mounjaro for weight loss?
Clinical studies have shown that Mounjaro can lead to a 15% weight loss in patients after 9 months of taking Mounjaro for weight loss.
When announcing the authorisation of Mounjaro pens for weight loss management in the US, the MHRA shared clinical trial results over 16 months showing up to 20% weight loss in patients taking Tirzapatide.
How to use Mounjaro weight loss injections
Mounjaro weight loss injections should be injected under the skin of your stomach, upper leg or upper arm.
- Prepare by cleaning the injection site using an alcohol swab or soap and water.
- When ready, pull off the base cap.
- Place the base of the Mounjaro pen flat on your skin and twist to unlock it.
- Press and hold the button at the top of the pen for up to 10 seconds.
- When you hear the first click, the injection has started.
- The second click means the injection is complete.
- After use, dispose of the pen immediately in a sharps box.
- Use a gauze pad or cotton wool if needed and apply pressure to stop bleeding.
You can use the same area of your body every time you Mounjaro pens, but choose a different spot for the injection site.
Who can take Mounjaro for weight loss?
Mounjaro weight loss injections are suitable for individuals with a:
- Body mass index (BMI) over 30
- BMI over 27 who have also been diagnosed with weight-related medical problems, including type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, obstructive sleep apnea and high blood pressure.
How to take Mounjaro
What are the side effects of Mounjaro?
Like any other medication, you may experience side effects from taking Mounjaro, and everyone’s experience differs. If you are concerned about any side effects of Mounjaro weight loss injections, speak to your pharmacist or GP before starting treatment.
Common Mounjaro Side Effects
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Decreased appetite
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
- Allergic reaction (rash, itching or eczema)
- Stomach bloating
- Acid reflux or heartburn
- Feeling tired
- Increased pulse
Mild stomach issues from taking Mounjaro usually improve in time. If you experience nausea, individuals have found the following has helped:
- Eat smaller meals, such as splitting 3 daily meals into 4 or more
- Avoid foods high in fat
- Eat bland foods, such as toast, rice or crackers
- Ensure you stop eating when you feel full
If nausea continues after following these guidelines, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Uncommon Mounjaro Side Effects
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Gallstones
- Injection site pain
Serious Mounjaro Side Effects
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia)
- Serious allergic reactions
- Kidney failure
- Severe stomach problems
- Vision changes
- Gallbladder problems
If you have a kidney-related health condition and experience diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting after using Mounjaro, ensure you increase your fluid intake to reduce the risk of dehydration and contact your GP, pharmacist or an out-of-hours doctor.
These are not all the possible side effects of Mounjaro. You should review the Patient Information Leaflet before starting the treatment so you are familiar with all potential side effects.
Reporting Side Effects
If you experience any side effects, even if they aren’t included in the patient information leaflet, report them to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme.
Important Information
- If you are taking the contraceptive pill, you will need to use another barrier method while using Mounjaro pens.
- Keep Mounjaro pens and disposal containers out of sight and reach of children.
- Do not use after expiry date
- Do not use Mounjaro pens if you notice it is damaged or the medicine is cloudy, discoloured or has particles in it.
- Do not dispose of Mounjaro pens with normal household waste.
