Mounjaro (trizpeptide) is a recently approved medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. It is a dual agonist, meaning it targets two different receptors in the body: the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor and the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor. This mechanism of action helps to improve blood sugar control, promote weight loss, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications associated with type 2 diabetes.
While Mounjaro has shown promising results in clinical trials, like any medication, it can also cause side effects. Understanding the potential side effects and their duration is crucial for patients considering this treatment option.
Key takeaways:
Common Side Effects Of Mounjaro
The most commonly reported side effects of Mounjaro include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite. These side effects are generally mild to moderate in severity and are often related to the gastrointestinal (GI) system.
Other side effects that may occur include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and injection site reactions (such as redness, swelling, or itching). Some patients may also experience changes in their sense of taste or a metallic taste in their mouth.
Here’s a general overview of how long some of the common side effects of Mounjaro may last:
Gastrointestinal side effects
- Nausea and vomiting: These side effects are typically more pronounced during the initial weeks of treatment and tend to subside within a few weeks to a few months as the body adjusts to the medication.
- Diarrhea and constipation: These side effects may also improve over time, usually within a few weeks to a few months.
- Abdominal pain: Mild abdominal discomfort or pain may persist for several weeks or months, but typically improves as the body gets used to the medication.
Decreased appetite and weight loss
- Decreased appetite and subsequent weight loss are often desired effects of Mounjaro, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes who are overweight or obese. However, these effects may persist for the duration of treatment.
Also Read : Ozempic For Weight Loss: Benefits & Side Effects Reported!
Fatigue and dizziness
- Fatigue and dizziness are common side effects during the initial adjustment period and usually subside within a few weeks to a few months as the body adapts to the medication.
Injection site reactions
- Mild injection site reactions, such as redness, swelling, or itching, may occur immediately after injection but typically resolve within a few days.
It’s important to note that the duration of side effects can vary depending on individual factors, such as age, overall health, and any underlying medical conditions. If side effects persist or become severe, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.
How Long Do Mounjaro Side Effects Last?
The duration of side effects from Mounjaro (tirzepatide) can vary significantly from one individual to another. While some people may experience side effects that subside relatively quickly, others might have to contend with persistent or lingering adverse effects. It’s crucial to understand that the resolution of side effects does not necessarily occur immediately after discontinuing the medication.
Several factors can influence the duration of side effects, including an individual’s unique physiology, metabolism, and overall health status. Some people may metabolize and eliminate the drug from their system more efficiently, leading to a shorter duration of side effects. Others may have underlying conditions or genetic variations that prolong the body’s response to the medication.
Is Mounjaro Safe To Take?
Mounjaro has been extensively studied in clinical trials and has demonstrated an overall favorable safety profile. However, like any medication, it carries certain risks and potential side effects.
The safety of Mounjaro is closely monitored by regulatory agencies, and the medication has been approved for use in several countries after rigorous evaluation of its safety and efficacy. It is important to follow the prescribing guidelines and consult with a healthcare professional before starting treatment with Mounjaro.
While Mounjaro is generally well-tolerated, there are some potential risks and precautions to be aware of:
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): There is a potential risk of developing pancreatitis while taking Mounjaro, especially in individuals with a history of pancreatitis or other pancreatic disorders.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Mounjaro may increase the risk of hypoglycemia, especially when combined with certain diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas.
- Thyroid tumor risk: Mounjaro belongs to a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which have been associated with an increased risk of thyroid tumors in animal studies. However, the relevance of this finding to humans is currently unknown.
- Contraindications: Mounjaro should not be used in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (a type of thyroid cancer) or in those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), as it may increase the risk of these conditions.
It is crucial to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any other concerns with your healthcare provider before starting Mounjaro. They can help evaluate the potential risks and benefits of the treatment and provide guidance on monitoring and managing any side effects that may occur.
Conclusion
Mounjaro (tripeptide) is a promising new medication for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, offering improved blood sugar control and potential weight loss benefits. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects, with the most common ones being gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
The duration of these side effects can vary, but they typically improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Gastrointestinal side effects may last for a few weeks to a few months, while fatigue, dizziness, and injection site reactions tend to subside within a similar timeframe.
It is important to closely monitor any side effects and consult with a healthcare professional if they persist or become severe. While Mounjaro has demonstrated a favorable safety profile in clinical trials, there are some potential risks and precautions to be aware of, such as the risk of pancreatitis, hypoglycemia, and thyroid tumor risk.
Overall, open communication with your healthcare provider and adherence to the prescribed dosage and monitoring guidelines are essential for safely managing any potential side effects and maximizing the benefits of Mounjaro treatment.
FAQ’s
It can cause fatigue as a side effect, likely due to its effects on appetite regulation hormones.
The half-life is about 1 week, so it takes several weeks to fully leave your system after stopping.
Most people adjust within 4-8 weeks as their body gets used to the appetite suppression effects.
It’s possible, as it can cause fatigue, insomnia or other sleep disturbances in some people.
Yes, eggs are allowed as Mounjaro just suppresses appetite, it doesn’t restrict any specific foods.
Yes, feeling weak or lack of energy can be a side effect.
References
- Hatanaka T, Kawakami K, Uraji M: Inhibitory effect of collagen-derived tripeptides on dipeptidyl peptidase-IV activity. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem, 2014; 29: 823-828 [PubMed]
- Knowler, W. C. et al. Reduction in the incidence of type 2 diabetes with lifestyle intervention or metformin. N. Engl. J. Med. 346, 393–403 (2002).[Article ]
