Mounjaro syringe: Effect, application and FAQs

Who developed Mounjaro?

Manufacturer

Mounjaro is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company, an international pharmaceutical company based in Indianapolis, USA. In the USA, Eli Lilly has also launched a tirzepatide drug specifically for obesity under the name Zepbound. However, Eli Lilly currently has no plans to launch Zepbound in Europe.

Availability in Germany

Mounjaro has been on the market since 2022 and is available on prescription in various countries, including Germany. It is offered as a prefilled pen for subcutaneous injection.

For which application is Mounjaro approved?

Mounjaro is approved for the treatment of adults with:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially when diet and exercise alone are not enough to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Overweight (BMI ≥ 27) with at least one weight-related concomitant disease.
• Obesity (BMI ≥ 30).

Who is Mounjaro suitable for?

Mounjaro is intended for adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus who cannot adequately control their blood glucose levels with diet and exercise. It is also suitable for adults who are overweight and have weight-related health problems, as well as adults with obesity.

How does the Mounjaro syringe work?

The Mounjaro injection contains tirzepatide, which activates the GIP and GLP-1 receptors. This leads to increased insulin release, reduced glucagon release and improved insulin sensitivity, which lowers blood glucose levels. It also slows gastric emptying and reduces appetite, which leads to weight loss.

Dosage and application

Mounjaro is available in dosages of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg and 15 mg. Treatment is gradual to improve tolerability, usually starting with 2.5 mg once a week. It is administered using an injection pen or pre-filled pen or by drawing up from a vial. After four weeks, the dose can be increased to 5 mg and then gradually every month, depending on individual tolerance. The maximum recommended dose is 15 mg per week.

The injection is given subcutaneously (under the skin) in the abdomen, thigh or upper arm. To avoid skin irritation, the injection sites should be changed regularly.

Where can I buy Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is only available on prescription from pharmacies. Before starting treatment, a doctor’s consultation should take place to determine suitability and the correct dosage. The effectiveness of Mounjaro has only been proven in combination with a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.

Prices for Mounjaro

The cost of Mounjaro varies depending on the dosage and pack size and is subject to legal regulations. At The Body Clinic, you can purchase a starter program with Mounjaro from €425. This includes – if desired – free delivery of the drug, personal coaching and access to online fitness offers to support the best possible effectiveness.

What are the possible side effects?

The most common side effects of Mounjaro are:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation

These side effects usually occur at the start of treatment and subside over time. Rare but serious side effects may include pancreatitis or allergic reactions. A doctor should be consulted immediately in the event of severe abdominal pain or allergic symptoms.

Safety and approval of Mounjaro

Mounjaro was approved by the European Commission on the recommendation of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This approval confirms that the use of this medicine is safe for adults with type 2 diabetes, overweight or obesity. An accompanying lifestyle change with a healthy diet and sufficient exercise is essential.

Interactions and contraindications

Before using Mounjaro, patients should inform their doctor about any existing health problems and medication they are taking.

Mounjaro can increase the effect of other blood sugar-lowering medication, which increases the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Regular blood glucose monitoring is necessary and the dosage of other diabetes medication may need to be adjusted.

Patients with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disorders should consult their doctor before use. Use during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended.

Differences between Mounjaro and other medications

Mounjaro vs. Ozempic

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Ozempic (semaglutide) are both GLP-1 receptor agonists. Mounjaro additionally activates the GIP receptor, which can have a stronger effect on blood glucose levels and the feeling of satiety. Both drugs are injected once a week. Both are approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. In addition, Mounjaro is also approved for weight reduction under the above-mentioned conditions.

Mounjaro vs. Wegovy

Mounjaro and Wegovy are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but Mounjaro additionally activates the GIP receptor, which has an enhanced effect on blood glucose regulation and fat burning. Both drugs are injected once a week. Mounjaro is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes as well as for weight loss, whereas Wegovy is only approved for weight loss.

Mounjaro vs. Saxenda

Mounjaro and Saxenda are both GLP-1 receptor agonists, but Mounjaro also activates the GIP receptor as described above. Mounjaro is injected weekly and Saxenda daily. Mounjaro is also approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, while Saxenda is not.

Does the health insurance company reimburse Mounjaro?

In Germany, statutory health insurance companies do not generally cover the costs of Mounjaro for weight loss, as it is currently classified as a lifestyle drug for this application. However, reimbursement by health insurance companies depends heavily on the individual insurance policy and the medical indication. Patients should therefore contact their health insurance provider directly to find out about reimbursement options.

How can I stop using Mounjaro?

Treatment should be discontinued in consultation with a doctor in order to avoid possible side effects. A switch to a maintenance dose is often made, whereby Mounjaro is gradually reduced. It is also possible to discontinue the medication completely. In this case, however, there is a risk of regaining weight.