Is Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Approved For Weight Loss?
No, Mounjaro® is not FDA-approved for weight loss. Currently, it is FDA-approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Mounjaro has demonstrated impressive weight loss in two recent studies and currently is being fast-tracked by the FDA for approval for weight loss. One study found patients taking the highest dose of Mounjaro lost approximately 21% of their starting body weight after 72 weeks. Another study of patients with type 2 diabetes taking Mounjaro for weight loss showed an average of 15.7% weight loss at 72 weeks. At this time, using Mounjaro for weight loss is considered off-label use, but this will likely change in the near future. It should be noted that medications for weight loss may be indicated for individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27+ kg/m2 with a weight related medication condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes or a BMI of 30+ kg/m2.
Mounjaro® and its delivery device base are registered trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.
Lauren Lemieux, MD
FACP, ABOM diplomate
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.