Common Side Effects:
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Gastrointestinal issues:
- Nausea (most common)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- These side effects are typically more common when first starting the medication and may lessen over time.
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Decreased appetite:
- As tirzepatide works by affecting appetite-regulating hormones, it can significantly reduce hunger, which can be beneficial for weight loss but may be uncomfortable for some people.
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Fatigue:
- Some people report feeling unusually tired or weak while on tirzepatide.
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Dizziness or lightheadedness:
- This may occur, especially when standing up quickly, possibly due to changes in blood pressure.
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Injection site reactions:
- Some individuals may experience redness, swelling, or itching at the site of injection.
Serious Health Warnings:
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Pancreatitis:
- There have been reports of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in some individuals using GLP-1 receptor agonists like tirzepatide. Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe stomach pain, vomiting, and fever. If you experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
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Thyroid Tumors:
- Tirzepatide has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid tumors in animal studies. Although it's unclear if this risk applies to humans, it is recommended that individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) avoid this medication.
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Kidney problems:
- Some people on tirzepatide may experience worsening kidney function, especially if they experience severe dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea. It's important to stay well-hydrated and notify your healthcare provider if you have a history of kidney disease.
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Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar):
- When tirzepatide is used in combination with other diabetes medications, especially insulin or sulfonylureas, there may be an increased risk of hypoglycemia. Monitoring blood sugar levels is crucial if you are taking multiple medications.
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Gallbladder issues:
- There is some evidence suggesting that tirzepatide could increase the risk of gallstones or gallbladder problems, including inflammation or infection. If you have a history of gallbladder issues, discuss this with your doctor.
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Allergic reactions:
- While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing. In severe cases, this can be a sign of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Who should not take tirzepatide?
- People with a history of thyroid cancer (medullary thyroid carcinoma or MTC) or those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2).
- Individuals with a history of pancreatitis or serious gastrointestinal conditions (like gastroparesis).
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established.
What to do if you experience side effects:
- Minor side effects: Often improve after the first few weeks as your body adjusts. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration from GI side effects, and inform your doctor if these persist.
- Serious side effects: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms like severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis), signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), or any symptoms of thyroid problems (lumps in the neck, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness).
Important Considerations:
- Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and administration.
- Be aware of potential interactions with other medications, especially those used for diabetes management.
- Discuss any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns you may have with your doctor before starting tirzepatide.
As with any medication, it's essential to have ongoing communication with your healthcare provider while using tirzepatide to ensure it's working effectively and safely for you.
Mounjaro is not approved for type 1 diabetes treatment and it is not known if it can be used in people with pancreatitis.
It is not known if Mounjaro is safe or effective in children under 18 years of age.