Most-searched Mounjaro side effects guide

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Reduction in appetite

Yes, Mounjaro does cause a reduction in appetite. Mounjaro as works by stimulating two hormone receptors: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP). GLP-1 helps to regulate blood glucose levels, suppressing your appetite and slowing down the emptying of the stomach to keep hunger at bay. GIP supplements the effects of GLP-1 by additionally regulating the energy balance in your brain and fat cells. This is an intended effect of Mounjaro and is a contributing factor to weight loss.

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Nausea

Nausea is a common side effect of Mounjaro. In research trials, 1 in 5 Mounjaro users reportedly experienced nausea. Tirzepatide (the active drug in Mounjaro) slows down gastric emptying, which can lead to feelings of fullness and discomfort, especially when starting treatment or increasing doses.

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Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is another common side effect of Mounjaro, reported by approximately 16% of users during clinical trials. This is due to the impact of Tirzepatide on gastrointestinal motility (the movement of food through the digestive tract) and digestion. While not everyone experiences diarrhoea, it can occur, especially during the initial weeks of treatment as your body is adjusting.

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‍Vomiting

Vomiting is a reported side effect of Mounjaro, although it’s less common than nausea, with approximately 9% of users reporting their experience. It is typically associated with higher doses or rapid dose escalation and may accompany nausea in some cases. Eating smaller meals throughout the day and avoiding greasy, fried foods can help to keep nausea and vomiting at bay.

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Constipation

Constipation can occur as a side effect of Mounjaro, although it is less common than diarrhoea, with approximately 2.4% of users reporting their experience. Constipation can occur as a result of delayed gastric emptying caused by the medication. Increasing your fibre intake alongside getting enough fluid (2-3 litres per day) helps reduce constipation.

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Stomach pain

Yes, stomach pain or abdominal discomfort is a possible side effect, as well as indigestion (a feeling of discomfort or fullness in the upper abdomen). Around 7% of users reported stomach pain (dyspepsia) as a side effect during clinical trials. It may be related to nausea, slowed gastric emptying, or other gastrointestinal effects of the drug.

Most gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, diarrhoea, and reduced appetite, tend to decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or are severe, speak to a member of our clinical team who can advise on symptom management and dose adjustment.

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Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a possible side effect of Mounjaro. However, this risk is generally considered rare. Mounjaro may increase enzyme activity in the pancreas, which could, in very rare cases, lead to inflammation. Also, if you have gallstones, Mounjaro can also slightly increase your risk of developing gallstone-related issues such as gallstone Pancreatitis. If you're using Mounjaro and develop signs of pancreatitis, such as severe abdominal pain (especially radiating to the back), nausea, vomiting, or fever, it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately.

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Insomnia

You may have encountered anecdotal reports on social media or from friends that Mounjaro and other weight loss medications can disturb sleep. However, insomnia is not listed as a common side effect by the manufacturer.

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Hair loss

Research has shown that experiencing hair loss is a possible side effect of taking Mounjaro. A meta-analysis performed on 8 studies revealed that, in one of those studies, approximately 5.2% of participants experienced hair loss due to Tirzepatide. However, this may not be directly related to Tirzepatide, the active drug in Mounjaro. Increased hair shedding can be common with significant changes in caloric intake. It is essential to eat nutrient-dense foods with particular emphasis on eating enough protein, healthy fats and the micronutrient biotin also known as vitamin B7.

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Sulphur Burps

Excessive burping can be unpleasant but isn’t uncommon when taking a medication that affects the digestive system. Mounjaro is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, which means it binds to and activates GLP-1 receptors to mimic the effects of the natural GLP-1 hormone. This hormone slows down gastric emptying, which causes food and liquid to stay in the stomach longer and can increase the amount of gas created. When food or another substance in your stomach is broken down, the fermentation created by the bacteria in your stomach can produce sulphur-containing gases, leading to burps that smell and taste like sulphur.

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Taste buds sensitivity

There are anecdotal accounts which suggest that Mounjaro can affect taste, but there’s currently no scientific research to support this. Taste is a subjective sense that varies from person to person, so what one person experiences may not be the case for another.

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Acid reflux (heartburn)

Mounjaro can cause acid reflux (heartburn) in some users. This can be due to excess stomach acid build-up which can occur as a result of delayed gastric emptying. Avoiding trigger foods such as spicy dishes, citrus fruits, caffeine and alcohol, and eating smaller, more frequent meals can help to alleviate discomfort.

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Dry mouth

Dry mouth is a common side effect of taking Mounjaro. This can be due to dehydration as a result of a change in appetite, changing blood glucose levels leading to less lubrication in the mouth or acid reflux. You can mitigate dry mouth by drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding diuretics like alcohol and caffeine which may dehydrate you further.

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Dizziness

Dizziness is a known side effect of taking this medication. Mounjaro works by mimicking the hormones GLP-1 and GIP, which stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas after a meal. This insulin then works to regulate your blood glucose levels. It’s also worth understanding that not eating and drinking enough can lead to feelings of dizziness. Make sure to speak to one of our clinical team if you’re experiencing frequent dizziness as a result of taking Mounjaro, and avoid self-diagnosis.

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Headaches

Headaches have been anecdotally reported as a side effect of Mounjaro, and changes in food and liquid intake, as a result of taking Mounjaro, may cause dehydration-related headaches. Headaches can also be a symptom of low blood glucose levels. Speak our clinical team if you’re experiencing consistent headaches whilst taking Mounjaro.

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Tired/Lethargy

A common side effect of Mounjaro is lethargy, and weakness. Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, works by suppressing your appetite, which may lead to you consuming less calories than you’re used to. As your body adjusts to a lower calorie intake, you may feel tired. It’s important to ensure that you’re consuming nutrient-dense foods and protein to meet your body’s energy needs. As you get used to your new medication, your body may go through an adjustment period, of which tiredness can be a side effect. Make sure you speak to one of our clinical team if you’re concerned about your energy levels.

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Muscle loss

In general, experiencing muscle loss when losing weight is normal. To reduce the impact of weight loss on your muscle mass, make sure to eat regular meals and snacks that are high in protein. Resistance or strength training will also help to minimise the loss of muscle mass during weight loss.

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Remember, side effects from the medication will vary from person to person with many not experiencing any at all. Whether you want to start your weight loss journey or you have questions about anything you might be experiencing, you can be safe in the knowledge that our clinical team are here to listen and support you.