Overview:
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) 2.5 mg is a once-weekly injectable prescription medicine used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as an adjunct to diet and exercise. It is the first and only treatment that activates both the GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors, offering a novel approach to diabetes management.
Key Features:
-
Active Ingredient: Tirzepatide 2.5 mg
-
Strength/Form: 2.5 mg/0.5 mL single-dose prefilled pen
-
Dosing Frequency: Once weekly
-
Drug Class: Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist
-
Indication: Type 2 diabetes in adults
Clinical Use:
The 2.5 mg dose is intended as a starting dose to initiate therapy and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. It is not a maintenance dose. After 4 weeks at 2.5 mg, the dose is typically increased to 5 mg weekly and may be further titrated based on individual needs and tolerance.
Mechanism of Action:
Tirzepatide works by enhancing glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite—leading to improved glycemic control and potential weight loss.
Administration:
-
Administered subcutaneously once weekly in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
-
Can be taken at any time of day, with or without food
-
If a dose is missed, it can be taken within 4 days (96 hours)
Benefits:
-
Dual-action mechanism targets multiple pathways involved in glucose control
-
Once-weekly, easy-to-use prefilled pen
-
Shown to significantly reduce HbA1c and body weight in clinical studies
-
Can be used alone or in combination with other antidiabetic medications
Important Safety Information:
-
Not for use in type 1 diabetes or to treat diabetic ketoacidosis
-
Do not use if you or a family member has a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
-
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and constipation
-
Risk of hypoglycemia increases when used with insulin or sulfonylureas
Storage:
-
Store in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F)
-
May be kept at room temperature up to 30°C (86°F) for up to 21 days
-
Do not freeze or expose to direct sunlight
Note:
Use only as directed by a healthcare provider. Mounjaro is available by prescription only.
