Mounjaro 5 mg is a prescription medication that contains tirzepatide, a novel glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and is being investigated for use in weight management.
This description is for educational purposes only. Mounjaro can only be prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional and is not available without a prescription.
Active ingredient: Tirzepatide
Strength: 5 mg per injection
Formulation: Prefilled, single-dose injection pen for subcutaneous use
Drug class: Dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist
The 5 mg dose is an intermediate step in treatment, usually after starting at 2.5 mg.
Tirzepatide is the first medication to target both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. It works by:
Enhancing insulin secretion when blood sugar is high
Suppressing glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar)
Slowing gastric emptying and reducing appetite
Supporting sustained blood sugar control and weight reduction
Primary indication: Improving glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, as an adjunct to diet and exercise.
Emerging use: Clinical trials show promising results for weight management in people with obesity or overweight, though regulatory approvals may differ by country.
Treatment is usually initiated at 2.5 mg once weekly.
After 4 weeks, the dose may be increased to 5 mg once weekly, depending on patient response and tolerance.
The dose may be further titrated in 2.5 mg increments up to 15 mg once weekly.
Administered by subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Common side effects:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Constipation
Decreased appetite
Serious but less common risks:
Pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting)
Gallbladder disease
Hypoglycemia (especially if combined with insulin or sulfonylureas)
Rare allergic reactions
Boxed warning: Animal studies have shown a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Use with caution in people with severe gastrointestinal disease.
Not approved for type 1 diabetes or for use in children.
Inject once weekly, on the same day each week.
Can be taken with or without food.
If a dose is missed, it can be given within 4 days; otherwise, skip and take the next scheduled dose.
Store pens in the refrigerator until ready for use.
Report any severe abdominal pain or persistent nausea/vomiting to a healthcare provider immediately.
In the UK and most regions, Mounjaro is classified as a prescription-only medicine (POM).
It should only be prescribed by a licensed healthcare professional as part of a structured diabetes management or weight-management program.
