Why does Mounjaro require a gradual increase in dosage?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is started at a low dose and gradually increased to help minimize side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. The dosage is typically raised every four weeks, allowing your healthcare provider to assess how well the medication is working and how your body is adjusting.
What is the starting dose of Mounjaro?
The initial dose of Mounjaro is 2.5 mg once weekly for four weeks. This is a starting dose and not intended for blood sugar control. After the first month, the dosage may be increased to 5 mg once weekly. Based on your response, your healthcare provider may continue increasing the dose every four weeks, up to a maximum of 15 mg per week.
What are the common side effects of Mounjaro?
The most frequently reported side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Stomach pain
Gradually increasing the dose helps reduce these side effects by allowing your body time to adjust.
This is not a complete list of side effects. Speak with your healthcare provider about potential side effects and how to manage them.
This is not all the information you need to know about Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of your doctor’s directions. Review the full product information and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.
References
Mounjaro [package insert]. Updated Jan 2025. Eli Lilly and Company. Accessed 02/05/2025 at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=d2d7da5d-ad07-4228-955f-cf7e355c8cc0
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Drug information
- Mounjaro Information for Consumers
- Mounjaro prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Mounjaro (detailed)
- Mounjaro user reviews (1,290)
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