Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is generally considered safe when used under medical supervision for both type 2 diabetes and weight loss, with approval from major regulatory agencies like the MHRA in the UK and the FDA in the US.
Safety Overview
- Clinical trials with thousands of participants have shown Mounjaro to be effective and safe for long-term use in diabetes and weight management.
- The medication should be prescribed only after a thorough medical assessment including BMI, medical history, and potential medication interactions.
- Mounjaro is administered as a weekly injection, with doses gradually increased to reduce side effects.
Common Side Effects
- Most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and decreased appetite.
- These side effects are usually mild to moderate and often improve over time.
Serious Risks and Precautions
- Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), gallbladder problems, and potential risk of thyroid tumors (mainly seen in animal studies).
- Not suitable for people with a history of pancreatitis, thyroid cancer history, severe gastrointestinal disease, pregnancy, or breastfeeding.
- Should not be taken without a prescription or medical supervision to avoid risks like hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially if combined with other diabetes medications.
Special Considerations
- Mounjaro may cause dehydration if gastrointestinal symptoms are severe, which can affect kidney function, so hydration is important.
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
In summary, Mounjaro is considered safe when prescribed and used properly under medical supervision, with manageable side effects and thorough patient monitoring to mitigate risks.
