Mounjaro

Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide, a prescription medication mainly used for type 2 diabetes—and increasingly for weight loss.

Here’s a clear breakdown:

What it does

• Mimics two hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) that regulate blood sugar and appetite
• Helps:
  • Lower blood sugar levels
  • Reduce appetite
  • Slow stomach emptying → you feel full longer

Why people use it

• Type 2 diabetes control (FDA-approved)
• Weight loss (very common off-label; also approved under a different brand name, Zepbound, specifically for obesity)

Effectiveness

• Many people lose 10–20% of body weight over time
• Often more effective than older GLP-1 meds (like Ozempic) for weight loss

How it’s taken

• Once-weekly injection
• Dose gradually increased to reduce side effects

Common side effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Loss of appetite

Usually worst when starting or increasing dose.

Important risks

• Not for people with:
  • Personal/family history of medullary thyroid cancer
  • MEN2 syndrome
• Can cause low blood sugar if combined with certain diabetes meds
• Rare risk of pancreatitis