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Diabetes Management

What is Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) and How Does it Work?

5 min read

Mounjaro(Tirzepatide) and How Does it Work

Around 830 million people are living with diabetes across the globe. Diabetes is a lifelong condition that slowly damages the vital organs of the body including the eyes, heart, and liver. Managing and living with type 2 diabetes and obesity can be extremely challenging, however with new advancements in science and medicine, new treatments have emerged to help manage these conditions effectively. One such breakthrough medication is Mounjaro (Tirzepatide), this medication not only helps control blood sugar but also aids in weight loss. You must be wondering, "What is Mounjaro?" or "How does Mounjaro work?", in this article we will guide you through its benefits and help you understand if this medicine could be right for you.

What is Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)?

Mounjaro, medically called Tirzepatide, is an FDA-approved, injectable, prescription medication created to help people with Type 2 Diabetes and obesity. It copies (mimics) the effects of two natural hormones in your gut, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), that play important roles in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

Mounjaro is an injection applied once a week that has been proven to be effective in helping lower blood sugar levels and reduce body weight effectively. It is typically used when other treatments, like oral medications or other injectables, have not been enough to manage blood sugar levels effectively.

Mounjaro Mechanism of Action: How Does Mounjaro Work?

Mounjaro belongs to a class of drugs called "dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists", which helps treat both Type 2 Diabetes and obesity effectively. Here’s how it works on the two important gut hormones:

1. GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide 1): This hormone is naturally produced in your intestines when you eat. It helps your body regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin production when blood sugar is high and reducing the release of glucagon (a hormone that raises blood sugar). This slows down stomach emptying and makes you feel full for longer. Mounjaro enhances the effects of GLP-1, allowing your body to regulate blood sugar more effectively.

2. GIP (Gastric inhibitory peptide): While this hormone also plays a role in controlling blood sugar by enhancing insulin release, it also affects fat metabolism. Mounjaro boosts the effects of GIP, which helps reduce appetite, leading to potential weight loss. 

By mimicking and enhancing the actions of these two hormones, Mounjaro helps manage blood sugar levels more effectively. This is how it works: 

  • Lowers blood sugar levels: In people with Type 2 Diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects, leading to high blood sugar levels. Mounjaro helps by improving insulin secretion and sensitivity and reducing the amount of sugar the liver releases into the bloodstream. 
  • Slows digestion: It also helps regulate appetite and slow gastric emptying, which aids in better blood sugar control.
  • Reduces appetite: For those struggling with obesity, losing weight can significantly improve overall health and help control Type 2 Diabetes. Mounjaro helps people lose weight by reducing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness after eating. This makes it easier to stick to a healthy, calorie-controlled diet. 
  • Lowers fat: It aids in better utilization of stored fat thus promoting weight loss.

Benefits of Mounjaro for Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity

Mounjaro has been shown to provide multiple benefits for people diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and obesity, including:

1. Improved Blood Sugar Control

By improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood sugar levels, Mounjaro can help you achieve better control over your diabetes. For those who have struggled to manage blood sugar with other medications, Mounjaro can be of additional help. 

2. Weight Loss

Since obesity is a major risk factor for Type 2 Diabetes, losing weight can help reduce insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels. Clinical studies have shown that people using Mounjaro for weight management have seen significant reductions in body weight.

3. Lower Risk of Diabetes Complications

Controlling blood sugar is crucial to reducing the risk of complications from Type 2 Diabetes, such as heart disease, kidney problems (diabetic nephropathy), and nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). By maintaining better blood sugar levels with Mounjaro, you can lower the chances of developing these complications.

4. Better Appetite Control

Mounjaro can help manage hunger and cravings, making it easier to stick to a healthy diet and prevent overeating. The medication slows down stomach emptying, so you feel full for longer periods after meals. This can be incredibly helpful for anyone struggling with overeating or emotional eating.

5. Convenient Weekly Injection

Unlike many other diabetes medications that need to be taken multiple times a day, Mounjaro is injected just once a week. This makes it easier for people with busy lives to stay consistent with their treatment.

Is Mounjaro Right for You?

Mounjaro is a great treatment option for those:

  • Who have type 2 diabetes and want better blood sugar control
  • Who struggle with obesity or excess weight despite exercising and dieting
  • Who have tried other diabetes medicines but nothing works well for them

However, like any medication, Mounjaro is not suitable for everyone. It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider to see if it’s the right choice for you. If you’re considering starting Mounjaro, your doctor will take your medical history, check for any contraindications, and ensure that the medication is safe for you to use.

How to Get Mounjaro?

Mounjaro is available by prescription only, so the first step in getting it is to book a consultation with your doctor. If you are looking for an easy way to consult with a healthcare professional, Apollo24|7 offers online doctor consultations to determine if Mounjaro is right for you. You can also book lab tests through the platform to track your blood sugar levels and overall health progress.

Conclusion

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is a promising treatment for Type 2 Diabetes and obesity, offering better blood sugar control and weight loss benefits. By improving blood sugar control, promoting weight loss, and helping with appetite regulation, it addresses two of the major issues faced by people living with these conditions. If you want to know whether Mounjaro is the right option for you, consult with an expert via Apollo24|7. You can easily book an online consultation or schedule lab tests to check if Mounjaro suits your health needs. 

Get Mounjaro Here

Diabetes Management

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Mounjaro to start working?

Can Mounjaro cause side effects?

Is Mounjaro only for people with Type 2 Diabetes?

Can I stop taking my other diabetes medications if I start Mounjaro?

How is Mounjaro injected?

Is Mounjaro a substitute for insulin?

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