Mounjaro

tirzepatide · Eli Lilly

FDA approved 2022Once weeklyType 2 diabetes mellitus

Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide approved for type 2 diabetes. It is the same molecule and the same dose strengths as Zepbound, but the indication and labeling differ. As a dual GIP + GLP-1 agonist, Mounjaro produces both excellent A1C reductions and substantial weight loss in clinical trials. The SURPASS series of trials established its place in type 2 diabetes treatment as one of the most potent injectable options.

Reference dose ladder · Once weekly

Initiation

2.5 mg

4 weeks

Step 1

5 mg

4 weeks

Step 2

7.5 mg

4 weeks

Step 3

10 mg

4 weeks

Step 4

12.5 mg

4 weeks

Maximum

15 mg

hold

Educational reference only — your prescriber sets your actual schedule.

How Mounjaro works

Tirzepatide activates GIP and GLP-1 receptors. The combined incretin action produces enhanced insulin secretion in response to meals, glucagon suppression, slower gastric emptying, and reduced appetite. Patients in trials saw A1C reductions of around 2.0-2.5 percentage points at the higher doses, and weight loss of around 15-22% of starting body weight in the SURPASS-2 weight subset.

Dose schedule

Same six-step titration as Zepbound: 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, 12.5, and 15 mg weekly. Initial 2.5 mg dose is titration only and is not maintained as a therapeutic dose. Reference ladder only — your prescriber sets your actual schedule.

Common side effects

Gastrointestinal: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, constipation, abdominal pain. Most common in the first weeks and after each dose increase. Fatigue, dyspepsia, and injection-site reactions are reported. Hypoglycemia risk is low with Mounjaro alone but rises if combined with insulin or sulfonylureas.

Storage and handling

Refrigerated until first use. After first use, may be stored unrefrigerated up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 21 days. Do not freeze. Pre-filled single-use pens are discarded after each dose.

Cost and insurance

Mounjaro's list price in the United States is around $1,070 per month. Most commercial insurance plans cover it for type 2 diabetes. The Lilly Mounjaro Savings Card may reduce cost for eligible commercially insured patients. Off-label use for weight loss is generally not covered.

Sources

Last reviewed: 2026-05-24

Tracking on the side

Pair this guide with the iOS app.

Log your shot day, track side effects against the day-of-cycle curve, and chart your weight — all on your iPhone, never in the cloud. One-time $14.99.

Coming soon to the App Store