Tirzepatide
Description
Tirzepatide is a prescription medication used to improve blood sugar control in
adults with type 2 diabetes when used alongside diet and exercise. It is also indicated for weight management when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. While taking Tirzepatide, you may experience common side effects such as nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, or indigestion. These effects are usually mild and often improve over time; however, if they become severe or persist, it is advisable to consult your doctor. Importantly, Tirzepatide should not be used if you or your family have a history of a specific type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma or a condition known as multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). Additionally, it is recommended that pregnant individuals or those planning a pregnancy avoid this medication due to potential risks to the baby. Always inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking before starting Tirzepatide to prevent possible interactions.
Uses
Tirzepatide is a prescription medication used to improve blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes when combined with diet and exercise. It is also indicated for weight management when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity....
Contraindications
When should one not use Tirzepatide
If you are allergic to tirzepatide.
Side effects
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Precautions and Warnings
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Tirzepatide during pregnancy?
A:
Tirzepatide is not advised during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential who are not using contraception. If a patient plans to become pregnant, tirzepatide should be discontinued at least one month prior to the intended pregnancy due to its long half-life. Tirzepatide must not be used during pregnancy.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Tirzepatide while breastfeeding?
A:
Consult your doctor before using Tirzepatide while breastfeeding, as there is limited safety information regarding the use of this injection during breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Tirzepatide?
A:
Tirzepatide has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or operate machinery. When tirzepatide is used in combination with a sulfonylurea or insulin, take precautions against hypoglycaemia when driving or operating machinery.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Tirzepatide?
A:
No known interactions with alcohol.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You have a history of pancreatitis.
- You experience severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting, which could indicate pancreatitis.
Mode of Action
How Does It Work?
Tirzepatide works through a unique dual mechanism of action. It acts as an agonist for both the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. By activating these two incretin hormone receptors, Mounjaro facilitates the enhancement of insulin release from the pancreas in a glucose-dependent manner, reduces the amount of glucose produced by the liver, slows gastric emptying, and promotes feelings of fullness, all of which contribute to improved blood sugar control and can aid in weight management....
Interactions
Interactions with other medicines
- Taking oral medications with a narrow therapeutic index, such as warfarin or digoxin, may be affected by tirzepatide, as it can alter their absorption.
- Using medications that require a rapid onset of action might be problematic since tirzepatide may delay their effects.
- Relying on oral contraceptives may be risky, as tirzepatide could reduce their effectiveness. It is advisable to consider switching to a non-oral contraceptive method or to use additional protection for four weeks after starting tirzepatide or increasing its dose....
- Having obesity or being overweight while using oral contraceptives may be concerning since tirzepatide can influence their efficacy.
- Frequent use of paracetamol may be impacted by tirzepatide, as it may delay its absorption; however, no dose adjustment is typically necessary.
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Ravindra Ghongade
B. Pharm
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Nikita Toshi
BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Tirzepatide, and what is it used for?
A: Tirzepatide is a prescription medication that aids adults with type 2 diabetes in managing their blood sugar levels, alongside diet and exercise. It is also indicated for weight management when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Q: How does Tirzepatide work?
A: Tirzepatide mimics two gut hormones, GLP-1 and GIP, in your body. These hormones prompt your pancreas to release more insulin when blood sugar is high, reduce sugar production in your liver, and slow gastric emptying, leading to prolonged fullness. They also diminish appetite and cravings, aiding in blood sugar control and weight loss.
Q: Is Tirzepatide an insulin?
A: No, Tirzepatide is not insulin. It is a different type of medication known as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. While it aids your body in using its own insulin more effectively and in producing more insulin when needed, it is not insulin itself.
Q: Can Tirzepatide cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)?
A: When used alone, Tirzepatide is unlikely to cause low blood sugar. However, if you are also taking other diabetes medications that can lower blood sugar, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, the risk of hypoglycaemia may increase. If you experience symptoms like headache, drowsiness, weakness, dizziness, feeling hungry, confusion, irritability, rapid heartbeat, or sweating, inform your doctor immediately. Your doctor may adjust the dosage of your other diabetes medicines.
Q: Who should not use Tirzepatide?
A: Tirzepatide is not suitable for everyone. You should not use this medication if you have type 1 diabetes, or if you have a personal or family history of a specific type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or a condition known as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Additionally, it should be avoided if you are allergic to tirzepatide or any other ingredient in Tirzepatide, or if you have severe stomach issues, such as severe gastroparesis, as Tirzepatide can further slow digestion. It is crucial to always provide your doctor with your complete medical history and any information regarding existing health conditions before starting Tirzepatide.
Q: Can Tirzepatide be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: Tirzepatide is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to unknown effects on an unborn or breastfed baby. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor about diabetes management options. Women of childbearing potential may need to use an additional barrier method of birth control (like condoms) or switch to non-oral contraceptives for a few weeks after starting Tirzepatide or after dose increases, as it can impact oral contraceptive effectiveness.
Q: Do I have to take Tirzepatide for the rest of my life?
A: If Tirzepatide is working well for you and your doctor determines it is safe, you will likely take it for an extended period to manage your blood sugar and/or weight. Diabetes is a chronic condition, and medications such as Tirzepatide are often part of a long-term treatment plan.
Q: What happens when you stop taking Tirzepatide?
A: If you stop taking Tirzepatide, your blood sugar levels may increase, and you might regain any weight you lost. It's essential to consult your doctor before discontinuing Tirzepatide, so they can discuss the potential effects and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Q: Can I take Tirzepatide with other diabetes medications?
A: Yes, your doctor may prescribe Tirzepatide alongside other diabetes medications. However, it is crucial to monitor your blood sugar levels closely, particularly if you are taking insulin or sulfonylureas, as combining these can heighten the risk of low blood sugar. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Q: Are there any precautions to follow while taking Tirzepatide?
- Yes, some important precautions include:
- Monitor for low blood sugar if you're taking other diabetes medications.
- Stay hydrated, particularly if you experience stomach upset.
- Avoid or limit alcohol, as it can increase the risk of low blood sugar or dehydration.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of pancreatitis, kidney disease, or severe gastrointestinal issues.
- If you're undergoing surgery, notify your doctor that you are taking Tirzepatide, as it can slow stomach emptying and may need to be suspended beforehand.
- For women using oral birth control, discuss alternative or additional contraception with your doctor.
References
View All
- Farzam K, Patel P. Tirzepatide. [Updated 2024 Feb 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-.
- Dutta P, Kumar Y, Babu AT, Giri Ravindran S, Salam A, Rai B, Baskar A, Dhawan A, Jomy M. Tirzepatide: A Promising Drug for Type 2 Diabetes and Beyond. Cureus. 2023 May 1;15(5):e38379. doi: 10.7759/cureus.38379. PMID: 37265914; PMCID: PMC10231274.
- Lilly.com | Eli Lilly and Company [Internet]. www.lilly.com. [Cited 4 June 2025]
- Mounjaro KwikPen 2.5mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen - Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) - (emc) [Internet]. www.medicines.org.uk. [Cited 4 June 2025]
- MOUNJAROTM (tirzepatide) Injection, for subcutaneous use Initial U.S. Approval: 2022 [Internet]. uspl.lilly.com.[Cited 4 June 2025]
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