What is Mounjaro®?
Mounjaro® is an FDA-approved prescription medication that contains tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and widely prescribed off-label for weight management.
Compounded Mounjaro® contains the same active ingredient—tirzepatide—and is prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies based on a doctor’s prescription. Compounding allows treatment to be personalized to a patient’s needs when commercially available options may not be suitable or accessible.
While Mounjaro® itself is FDA-approved, compounded versions are not individually FDA-approved finished products. They are legally prepared by licensed pharmacies under strict regulatory standards and quality controls.
This medication is not a substitute for insulin and is not approved for use in patients with type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis.
Who should not use Mounjaro®?
Do not use this medication if you:
- Are allergic to tirzepatide or any of its ingredients.
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
- Have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Consult your doctor if you are unsure about your medical history or current health conditions.
How is Mounjaro® used?
Mounjaro® is taken as a once-weekly injection under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Most patients start at a lower dose, which is gradually increased over time to help reduce side effects and allow the body to adjust. Your exact dose and treatment plan will be determined by your &you-assigned doctor.
If you miss a dose:
- Take it as soon as possible within 5 days
- If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule
- Do not take two doses within the same week
Storage: Keep refrigerated unless otherwise instructed.
Disposal: Used needles should be disposed of in an approved sharps container.
What Should I Tell My Doctor Before Using Mounjaro®?
Before starting Mounjaro®, inform your doctor if you:
- Have a history of thyroid disease, pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or kidney problems
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Are taking insulin or other medications that lower blood sugar
- Are using any prescription, over-the-counter medications, or supplements.
Providing complete medical information helps ensure your treatment is safe and appropriate.
What are the most serious side effects of Compounded Semaglutide?
Although uncommon, serious side effects may occur. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Thyroid tumors: Symptoms may include a lump in the neck, trouble swallowing, or persistent hoarseness.
- Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain, with or without vomiting, may indicate inflammation of the pancreas.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Watch for symptoms like shakiness, confusion, or excessive sweating, especially if you are on other diabetes medications.
- Kidney problems: Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea may lead to dehydration and kidney damage.
- Severe allergic reactions: Swelling, breathing difficulties, or rash require immediate medical attention.
What are the most common side effects?
The most commonly reported side effects of Mounjaro® include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Additional safety information
These side effects are usually mild to moderate and tend to improve as your body adjusts, especially when doses are increased gradually.
Additional Safety Information
Mounjaro® is intended to support metabolic health and weight management as part of a broader treatment plan that includes nutrition and lifestyle changes. It is not a cure for obesity or metabolic disease.
For safe use:
- Never share your medication or injection supplies
- Follow injection, storage, and dosing instructions carefully
- Only use Mounjaro® exactly as prescribed by your doctor
Reporting side effects
To report side effects in the Philippines, contact the Philippine Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through their Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Reporting System or call +63 2-8809-5596.
For full prescribing information and additional details, visit the Philippine FDA website.