Mounjaro
Also known as: Tirzepatide injection, Dual agonist medication
Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide, the first dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist approved by the FDA (May 2022) for type 2 diabetes. It represents a new class of incretin-based therapies that targets two gut hormone receptors simultaneously.
Last updated: January 28, 2026
What is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide when prescribed for type 2 diabetes. Manufactured by Eli Lilly, it was FDA-approved in May 2022 and represents the first-in-class dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Key facts:
- Generic name: Tirzepatide
- Manufacturer: Eli Lilly
- FDA approval: May 2022 (type 2 diabetes)
- Administration: Weekly subcutaneous injection
- Doses available: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg
How Mounjaro Works
Unlike GLP-1-only agonists, Mounjaro activates two incretin receptors:
1. GLP-1 Receptor Activation
- Stimulates insulin secretion
- Suppresses glucagon
- Slows gastric emptying
- Reduces appetite
2. GIP Receptor Activation
- Enhances insulin response
- May improve beta cell function
- Potential adipose tissue effects
- Synergistic with GLP-1 actions
Clinical Trial Evidence
The SURPASS clinical trial program established Mounjaro’s efficacy:
| Trial | Comparator | A1C Reduction |
|---|---|---|
| SURPASS-1 | Placebo | -2.0% (15 mg) |
| SURPASS-2 | Semaglutide 1 mg | -2.3% vs -1.9% |
| SURPASS-3 | Insulin degludec | -2.4% vs -1.4% |
| SURPASS-4 | Insulin glargine | -2.6% vs -1.4% |
| SURPASS-5 | Placebo (+insulin) | -2.6% |
Weight Loss in Diabetes Trials
While approved for diabetes, substantial weight loss was observed:
| Dose | Weight Loss (SURPASS-2) |
|---|---|
| 5 mg | -7.6 kg |
| 10 mg | -9.3 kg |
| 15 mg | -11.2 kg |
This led to development of Zepbound for dedicated weight management.
Mounjaro vs Ozempic
| Aspect | Mounjaro | Ozempic |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Dual GIP/GLP-1 | GLP-1 only |
| A1C reduction | Up to 2.6% | Up to 2.0% |
| Weight loss | Up to 12%+ | Up to 10% |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly | Novo Nordisk |
| Approval | 2022 | 2017 |
Dosing Schedule
Mounjaro uses gradual titration:
| Phase | Dose | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Starting | 2.5 mg | 4 weeks |
| Titration | 5 mg → 7.5 mg → 10 mg → 12.5 mg → 15 mg | 4 weeks each |
| Maintenance | Individualized | Ongoing |
Safety Profile
Side effects are similar to other incretin therapies:
- Nausea (most common)
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Injection site reactions
Black box warning: Thyroid C-cell tumor risk (rodent studies), same as GLP-1 agonists.
Regulatory Status
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| USA (FDA) | Approved (T2D) |
| EU (EMA) | Approved |
| UK (MHRA) | Approved |
| Japan | Approved |
This entry is for educational purposes only. Mounjaro is a prescription medication. Consult a healthcare provider for medical advice.
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Disclaimer: This glossary entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical questions.