Explore the role of Mounjaro in weight loss in addition to its registered use of type 2 diabetes. Learn about the side effects of Mounjaro.
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a weekly prescription injection treating type 2 diabetes. It contains tirzepatide which is a dual action medication. Mounjaro belongs to the family of GLP-1 receptor agonists and Mounjaro works by increasing insulin and reducing sugar from the liver, helping lower blood sugar.
It’s dual-action mechanism, has demonstrated potential for weight loss and weight management in adults and was recently approved by the TGA for this purpose. The medication helps regulate appetite, increase feelings of fullness, reduce hunger, and decrease cravings. It is designed to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to support weight loss
It comes in a vial or a user-friendly disposable pen with a built-in needle. It can be injected into the lower abdomen, the thigh or the upper arm. There is a gradual dosage regime for Mounjaro which may vary individual to individual.
What is Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes happens where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels properly. It happens when the body becomes resistant to insulin, a hormone that helps control blood sugar. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, potentially leading to various health issues. Type 2 diabetes is often managed by diet, exercise, medications, and then insulin injections.
Mounjaro for weight loss
Mounjaro has proven effective for weight loss when used as directed. In the U.S., it has shown benefits not only in treating type 2 diabetes but also in promoting weight loss. A 72-week clinical trial involving overweight participants who received weekly injections demonstrated significant improvements in weight management.
Additionally, clinical trials sponsored by Eli Lilly revealed that patients with obesity lost up to 20 percent of their body weight at the highest doses. Participants saw weight loss with weekly doses of 15 mg and 10 mg.
Now officially registered for weight loss in Australia, Mounjaro works by suppressing appetite and creating a lasting feeling of fullness. By reducing food intake and slowing digestion, it supports weight management, particularly when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Is Mounjaro available in Australia?
Yes it is now available in Australia in a Kwikpen and Vial form. Mounjaro had received approval from the Therapeutic Good Administration (TGA) for treating people with type 2 diabetes who cannot use metformin or require extra diabetes medication.
It was approved by the TGA in 2022, and the vial form of Mounjaro was released in July 2023 with the pen being released in August 2024.
Mounjaro side effects
Mounjaro can cause certain side effects some of which are common and others can be more severe.
Common side effects
The common side effects reported are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation and abdominal pain. In a study of 2500 participants, around 80% of them reported experiencing mild to moderate side effects as listed above. Other less common side effects would be bloating, gas, mild increase in heart rate and sometimes decreased appetite.
Serious side effects
Mounjaro has some infrequent yet severe side effects. These include acute pancreatitis and gallbladder disease. Other side effects such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and severe episodes of diarrhea can lead to dehydration and which can create kidney problems.
Tirzepatide is best avoided in patients with a personal or family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN). The medication has a warning regarding the potential risk of thyroid tumors. However it was only reported in animal trials.
Consult a doctor
Individuals specifically wanting to focus on weight management should engage in a thorough discussion with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable course of action.
