Information written on this page is for research and informative purposes ONLY

 

Summary:

Tirzepatide is an antidiabetic medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea and aid in weight loss. It is administered via subcutaneous injections (under the skin).

 

Other names:

• Mounjaro (primarily for Type 2 diabetes)

• Zepbound (specifically for weight management/obesity/obstructive sleep apnea)

 

Common uses:

Tirzepatide (as Mounjaro) is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Tirzepatide (as Zepbound) is indicated, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, for long-term weight reduction in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity. Zepbound is also approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.

 

Side effects:

The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, upper abdominal discomfort, and abdominal pain.

Other side effects reported were dyspepsia, constipation, abdominal pain, dizziness, and hypoglycemia.

 

 

 

Warnings:

Tirzepatide is contraindicated for use in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer and people with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2.

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Drug interactions:

• Oral Contraceptives: Tirzepatide may reduce the effectiveness of oral birth control pills due to delayed gastric emptying. It is advised to switch to non-oral contraceptives or use barrier methods, particularly for 4 weeks after initiating or increasing the dose of tirzepatide.

• Diabetes Medications (Insulin, Sulfonylureas, Glinides): Combining tirzepatide with other glucose-lowering drugs like insulin, glipizide, or glimepiride significantly increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

• Oral Medications (General): Because tirzepatide slows stomach emptying, it can affect the absorption of various oral medications, reducing their effectiveness.

• Other GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: It is advised not to take tirzepatide in combination with other GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide, liraglutide).

• Surgery/Anesthesia: Due to the risk of delayed gastric emptying, it is recommended to discuss with a doctor if you are taking GLP-1 agonists before undergoing surgery to prevent potential aspiration.

• Medicines to Watch: Medications such as acetaminophen, warfarin, and others may have altered absorption.

 

Withdrawl Symptoms:

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) does not cause traditional physical addiction withdrawal, but stopping it often leads to a rapid return of appetite, increased "food noise," and weight regain. As the medication clears your system over 2–4 weeks, you may experience a return of previous cravings and, for some, digestive discomfort.

For those with diabetes or metabolic issues, blood sugar levels may rise requiring close monitoring.

 

“ Food Noise”
Intense, constant thoughts about food.