Frequently Asked Questions About Tirzepatide

Question 1

What is Tirzepatide?

Accepted Answer

Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication that acts as a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. It was initially approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and has since been approved for chronic weight management in eligible adults.

Question 2

What brand names is Tirzepatide available under?

Accepted Answer

Tirzepatide is marketed as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes and as Zepbound for chronic weight management. Both contain the same active ingredient but are approved for different indications.

Question 3

How is Tirzepatide different from semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy)?

Accepted Answer

While both are injectable medications used for weight management and diabetes, Tirzepatide targets two receptors (GIP and GLP-1) compared to semaglutide which targets only the GLP-1 receptor. Clinical trials have shown Tirzepatide may produce greater weight loss on average.

Question 4

Is Tirzepatide FDA-approved?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Tirzepatide received FDA approval for type 2 diabetes (as Mounjaro) in 2022 and for chronic weight management (as Zepbound) in 2023.

Question 5

How often do I take Tirzepatide?

Accepted Answer

Tirzepatide is injected once per week, on the same day each week. It can be administered at any time of day, with or without food.

Question 6

What is the starting dose?

Accepted Answer

The starting dose is 2.5 mg once weekly for the first 4 weeks. This is an initiation dose designed to help your body adjust. After 4 weeks, the dose is increased to 5 mg, with potential further increases at 4-week intervals based on your response.

Question 7

What if I miss a dose?

Accepted Answer

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within 4 days (96 hours) of the missed dose. If more than 4 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take the next dose on the regularly scheduled day. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Question 8

What is the maximum dose?

Accepted Answer

The maximum approved dose of Tirzepatide is 15 mg once weekly. Your healthcare provider will gradually increase your dose based on your individual response and how well you tolerate the medication.

Question 9

What are the most common side effects?

Accepted Answer

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature: nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. These typically occur during the initial weeks and after dose increases, improving over time.

Question 10

Will the side effects go away?

Accepted Answer

For most patients, gastrointestinal side effects are temporary and improve as the body adjusts. The gradual dose-escalation schedule is designed to minimize these effects. If side effects persist or are severe, consult your healthcare provider.

Question 11

Can Tirzepatide cause hair loss?

Accepted Answer

Some patients report hair thinning during significant weight loss, which can occur with any rapid weight loss method. This is typically temporary and related to the weight loss itself rather than the medication directly.

Question 12

Is Tirzepatide safe long-term?

Accepted Answer

Long-term safety data from clinical trials spanning up to two years have been encouraging. However, as with any medication, ongoing monitoring by your healthcare provider is important. Discuss any concerns about long-term use with your doctor.

Question 13

Who is eligible for Tirzepatide?

Accepted Answer

For weight management, Tirzepatide is approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or greater (obesity), or a BMI of 27 or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Question 14

Can I take Tirzepatide if I have type 1 diabetes?

Accepted Answer

No. Tirzepatide is not approved for use in patients with type 1 diabetes. It is specifically approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management.

Question 15

Can I take Tirzepatide while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Tirzepatide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. You should stop the medication at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy due to its long washout period. Discuss family planning with your healthcare provider.

Question 16

Are there any medications that interact with Tirzepatide?

Accepted Answer

Tirzepatide may affect the absorption of oral medications due to its effect on gastric emptying. This is particularly important for oral contraceptives and medications with narrow therapeutic windows. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking.

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Dosing

Side Effects

Eligibility

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