Important Safety Information for Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) Injection
Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) injection may cause thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. Be vigilant for symptoms such as a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath. If you notice any of these signs, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Do not use Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) if you or any family members have ever had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
FDA-Approved Use
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) injection is an injectable medication for adults with type 2 diabetes, intended to improve blood sugar control when combined with diet and exercise.
Limitations of Use
It is not established whether Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) can be used by individuals with a history of pancreatitis.
It is not suitable for people with type 1 diabetes or for children under 18 years of age.
Who Should Not Use Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)?
Do not use Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) if you or your family have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Additionally, avoid this medication if you are allergic to any of its components.
How to Use Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) can be taken with or without food.
Administered once a week using a pre-filled injector pen, it can be injected subcutaneously into the stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
Rotate the injection site each week to avoid repeated use of the same site.
Your healthcare provider will guide you on the appropriate dosage and regimen.
Do not alter your dosage or discontinue use without consulting your healthcare provider. If you accidentally take too much, seek medical advice immediately.
Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider
Before using Mounjaro® (tirzepatide), inform your provider about all medications you are taking, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Your healthcare provider will demonstrate how to use the injection and discuss how to manage low blood sugar if needed.
Special precautions should be taken if you are on oral birth control pills, as Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) may reduce their effectiveness. Your provider may recommend an alternative contraceptive method.
Medications to Watch Out For
Diabetes medications: Including insulin or sulfonylureas.
Other oral medications: Mounjaro® may affect the absorption of other medications.
Hormonal birth control: Switch to a non-oral method for four weeks after starting Mounjaro® or after any dose increases.
Other GLP-1 medications: Do not combine with similar medications.
Weight loss products: Including dietary supplements.
Provide Your Full Medical History
Share your complete medical history with your provider, particularly if you have:
Type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Thyroid cancer.
Gastrointestinal disease.
Pancreatitis.
Kidney disease.
Diabetic retinopathy.
Depression or suicidal thoughts.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Mounjaro® should not be used during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the benefits and risks with your provider. If you are of reproductive age, consider non-oral contraceptive methods while using Mounjaro®.
Serious Side Effects to Monitor
If you experience any medical emergencies, call 911 or seek immediate help. Serious side effects of Mounjaro® include:
Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: Monitor for lumps or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain.
Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back.
Hypoglycemia: Signs include dizziness, sweating, confusion, and shakiness.
Allergic Reactions: Swelling, rash, difficulty breathing, or rapid heartbeat.
Kidney Issues: Maintain hydration to prevent dehydration and kidney problems.
Stomach Problems: Report severe or persistent stomach issues.
Vision Changes: Notify your provider of any changes in vision.
Gallbladder Problems: Symptoms include upper stomach pain, fever, jaundice, and clay-colored stools.
Diabetic Retinopathy Complications: Monitor for changes in vision.
Suicidal Thoughts: Report any sudden changes in mood or behavior.
Do not share your injection pen to avoid infection risks.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, indigestion, injection site reactions, tiredness, allergic reactions, belching, hair loss, and heartburn.
Report any adverse effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
For comprehensive safety information, please refer to the full Prescribing Information.
Disclaimer: Affordahealth Pain Relief & Wellness is not affiliated with the manufacturers of Mounjaro® or other mentioned medications.