Explore the accurate Mounjaro dosage for diabetes and its potential for weight loss.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a weekly prescription injection designed for adults dealing with type 2 diabetes. The key component, tirzepatide is a combination medication. It imitates the actions of GIP (glucose dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 receptors (glucose-like peptide).
Mounjaro is currently available in a vial form and is projected to be a released in a user-friendly disposable pen. It can be injected into the lower abdomen, thigh or upper arm.
Mounjaro dosage
There are various doses of Mounjaro. The 2.5mg and 5mg are available in the vial form. The other 6 different strengths are projected as dosing pens, one each for single use.
New to treatment: 2.5mg once per week for the first four weeks.
Ongoing treatment: 5mg + once per week starting at week five with maximum dosage at 15mg weekly.
The dose may vary based on lifestyle, height, weight, level of insulin resistance, activity level and personal or family history.
If the blood sugar levels are still not under control with 5mg once per week, the doctor may increase the dose. At the time of increasing the dose, the common side effects should be closely monitored. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are likely to be experienced.
Missed or overdose
The Mounjaro dosage should be taken on the same day each week, generally at the same time. If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible within four days of the missed dose. For time greater than four days, skip that week and continue as per schedule.
In the incident of overdose on Mounjaro, there may be severe adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting. Low blood sugar can be experienced which can include dizziness, confusion, increased heart rate, shakiness and fatigue.
Availability
Mounjaro was approved by the TGA in 2022 and was released in its vial form in 2023. However it is facing challenges with supply which raises the question is Mounjaro available in Australia.
Eli Lilly, the manufacturer, has notified the released vial now has limited availability in Australia and most other doses are yet to be available. The 7.5mg, 10mg, 12.5mg and 15mg doses are unavailable and are expected to have limited availability from 2024. The doses of 2.5mg and 5mg were initially available however have limited availability at this time. The shortages are expected until August 2024.
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Storage
Mounjaro should be stored at a temperature between 2-8 degrees celsius. It can be left unrefrigerated for up to 21 days if the temperature never exceeds 30 degrees. The pens should not be frozen.
Mounjaro for diabetes
In type 2 diabetes, the body’s ability to respond to insulin is compromised, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels, known as hyperglycemia.
Supported by research, the hormones in Mounjaro (GLP 1 and GIP), work together to trigger insulin secretion after meals. Insulin then assists in either utilizing or storing glucose (sugar) in the body, a function usually affected by type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro effectively enhances insulin secretion and improves insulin sensitivity. Hence when combined with a proper diet and exercise, it effectively manages blood sugar levels.
Is Mounjaro effective for Weight loss?
Since the Food and Drug Administration has introduced the medication to the US market it has shown advantages to lose weight in addition to treating type 2 diabetes. In a 72-week clinical trial with overweight participants who received weekly injections, they had notable benefits in weight management.
Additionally, clinical trials sponsored by Eli Lilly found obese patients lost as much as 20 percent of their body weight on the highest doses of the drug. In the study trial the participants lost weight on 15mg and 10mg weekly dose.
While Mounjaro is not officially approved for weight loss, its mechanisms have been found to suppress appetite and induce a prolonged feeling of fullness. By reducing food intake and slowing down the stomach’s digestion process, it may contribute to weight management. It is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
The alternatives to Mounjaro?
While the availability of Mounjaro in Australia is still being assessed, there are alternative options to consider in the interim. Wegovy and Saxenda are viable alternatives for weight loss medication, particularly for managing weight. It’s crucial to have a thorough conversation with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable approach.
