Mounjaro 5 mg/0.5 mL - Essential Guide
Key Features
•First Therapeutic Dose: After 4 weeks on 2.5 mg starter dose
FDA Approval: For type 2 diabetes (off-label for weight loss)
Mechanism: Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
•Administration: Weekly subcutaneous injection (prefilled pen)
•Critical Notes: 5 mg is where significant metabolic effects begin
Continue for at least 4 weeks before considering increase
•Some patients may stay at 5 mg long-term if:
-Alc targets are met
-Weight loss is satisfactory
-Higher doses aren't tolerated
Expected Effects
Glycemic Control:
Average Alc reduction: 1.4-1.8% (from baseline)
Fasting glucose decrease: 40-60 mg/dL
Weight Loss:
Month 1 (2.5 mg): 2-5% body weight
Month 2 (5 mg): 5-9% body weight
Similar efficacy to Zepbound (same active drug)
Clinical Monitoring
At This Dose:
Check Alc after 8 weeks (2 months)
Monitor for hypoglycemia if on insulin/ sulfonylureas
Assess tolerance at week 6 (mid-dose period)
Renal Considerations:
No dose adjustment needed for mild/ moderate CKD
Use caution if eGFR <30 (limited data)
Conversion Scenarios
From Other GLP-1s:
Ozempic/Semaglutide:
If on 0.5 mg → Start Mounjaro 5 mg o If on 1 mg → May start at 7.5 mg
Trulicity/Dulaglutide:
It on 1.5 mg → Start at 5 mg
If on 3-4.5 mg → Start at 7.5 mg
To Zepbound:
Direct 1:1 conversion possible
Requires new prescription (different indications)
Patient Counseling Points
1. Timing:
• "Best injection day is Friday evening to manage side effects over weekend"
2. Nutrition:
• "Prioritize 30g protein per meal to prevent muscle loss"
3. Safety:
• "Report persistent vomiting or severe abdominal pain immediately"
4. Expectations:
• "This is where we typically start seeing significant changes"
