How does Mounjaro work?
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which works as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It attaches to receptors for GIP and GLP-1 hormones in your body. When tirzepatide attaches to these receptors, it stimulates the release of insulin from the pancreas, helping to control blood glucose levels.
Tirzepatide also increases the levels of adiponectin, a hormone that plays a role in regulating blood glucose and metabolism. This means it can control your appetite by emptying your stomach more slowly, which helps you eat less frequently because you feel full for longer.
What doses does Mounjaro come in?
Mounjaro offers a range of options for weight management, provided in pre-filled injection pens containing 2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg, and 15mg of tirzepatide. These pens are administered under the skin in areas such as the stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
People would typically begin with a weekly injection of 2.5mg for four weeks, then progress to a 5mg weekly dosage. Adjustments in dosage can occur at intervals of at least four weeks, with the possibility of increasing up to the maximum of 15mg per week, as advised by your doctor.
Overweight women using Mounjaro who are also using oral forms of contraceptives are advised to consider using a barrier method of contraception, like a condom, or changing to a non-oral contraceptive. This is recommended for four weeks after starting Mounjaro and for four weeks after any dose increases, as Mounjaro may influence the efficacy of oral contraceptives.
Are there other medications that use Tirzepatide?
No. Mounjaro is unique because it’s the only diabetic weight loss medication that activates both GLP-1 and GIP receptors for better blood sugar control and reduced appetite. It's a relatively new class of diabetic medication, and has been fast tracked for approval as a weight loss treatment by the UK government due to the positive results shown in studies.
