Frequently Asked Questions

Typical titration starts at 2.5 mg weekly for 4 weeks, then increases by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks (5 → 7.5 → 10 → 12.5 → 15 mg), based on tolerability. The maximum approved dose is 15 mg weekly.

A gradual increase helps your body adjust and can reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Within 4 days: Take it as soon as possible, then continue regular schedule. More than 4 days: Skip the missed dose and take the next one on your regular day.

KwikPens (multi-dose, used in some countries) have 60 clicks per full dose. Each pen strength has a different mg-per-click ratio (e.g., a 5 mg pen delivers 0.0833 mg per click). Click counting should only be used if your prescriber has confirmed a specific dose and pen strength.

Microdosing should only be done under a clinician's guidance. Never exceed 60 clicks per injection. Note: microdosing is only possible with multi-dose KwikPens, not U.S. single-dose pens.

Opened KwikPens should be discarded 28 days after first use, even if medication remains. Store at room temperature (below 86°F/30°C) or refrigerated.

Common gastrointestinal side effects include nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and constipation. These often improve over time, especially with gradual titration.

Serious but uncommon risks include pancreatitis (severe stomach pain), severe allergic reactions (swelling, trouble breathing), hypoglycemia when used with insulin or sulfonylureas, kidney problems, and gallbladder issues. A boxed warning notes a thyroid C-cell tumor risk seen in rodents.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Avoid fatty, greasy, or spicy foods. Eat slowly and stop when you feel full. Stay hydrated. Follow your titration schedule—and contact your clinician if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Unopened: refrigerator (36-46°F / 2-8°C). Opened KwikPens: room temperature below 86°F (30°C) or refrigerated for up to 28 days. Never freeze. Protect from light.

Approved sites include the abdomen (2+ inches from the navel), front/outer thigh, or back of the upper arm (if someone can help). Rotate sites with each injection.

Research is exploring benefits beyond blood sugar, including cardiovascular outcomes, inflammation, fatty liver disease, sleep apnea, and kidney health. Many of these uses remain investigational or are being studied in clinical trials.

Tirzepatide has not been studied specifically for longevity. It does improve several metabolic risk factors that are associated with aging-related disease, but no longevity trials have been completed.

Mounjaro is contraindicated in people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), or with MEN 2, and in those with a known allergy to tirzepatide. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended. A history of pancreatitis requires careful clinical consideration.

When combined with insulin or sulfonylureas, hypoglycemia risk increases and doses may need adjustment. Mounjaro slows gastric emptying, which can affect absorption of some oral medications, including contraceptives.

Blood sugar improvements can begin within weeks. Weight loss is often noticeable by 4-8 weeks and tends to increase with dose titration. In clinical trials, participants achieved substantial weight loss over about 72 weeks.

Stopping Mounjaro can lead to weight regain for many people. Ongoing lifestyle changes may help preserve some of the loss.