How does Mounjaro (tirzepatide) work for weight loss?

Mounjaro® is an injectable medication that is a combination GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics two hormones our body naturally makes- GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). GLP-1 acts on the pancreas to stimulate the release of insulin which lowers blood sugar and acts on the brain to decrease appetite and cravings. The addition of a GIP agonist to a GLP-1 agonist has been found to promote additional weight loss. Overall, Mounjaro prescriptions can decrease appetite and in combination with a low-calorie nutrition plan and increased physical activity can lead to weight loss. However, it is important to note that currently Mounjaro is only FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and not specifically for weight loss. Zepbound®, which contains the same active ingredient (tirzepatide) as Mounjaro, has been recently approved for the treatment of weight loss. Which medication you are prescribed depends on a variety of factors such as your insurance coverage, any medical conditions you may have, and which medication your healthcare provider determines to be appropriate for you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lauren Lemieux, MD, FACP, DABOM

Dr. Lauren Lemieux completed her Internal Medicine residency and fellowship in Clinical Nutrition at UCLA. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, and as a Physician Nutrition Specialist. She is also a fellow of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Lemieux is passionate about helping her patients reach their health goals using personalized nutrition, lifestyle and weight management strategies.

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Mounjaro® and Zepbound® and their delivery device bases are registered trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.