How does tirzepatide work?  

Tirzepatide injections help control blood sugar when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Tirzepatide, more commonly known in Australia as the brand name Mounjaro, functions as a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, supporting improved glycemic control.

Simply put, it increases insulin secretion from the pancreas, increases sensitivity of the body to the insulin, reduces glucagon concentration, delays gastric emptying (which makes you feel fuller for longer), and reduces food cravings, leading to weight loss. 

Tirzepatide supports weight loss in clinical studies conducted over 72 weeks. Patients using the 5mg weekly dose lost an average of 16.1 kg (35.5 lb), the 10mg dose led to an average loss of 22.2 kg (48.9 lb), and the 15mg dose resulted in an average loss of 23.6 kg (52.0 lb).

The New England Journal of Medicine has published results in treating obesity, [2] and Tirzepatide has recently been approved in Australia for weight loss and weight management for adults who are obese, or who are overweight with at least one weight-related comorbid illness, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.[3]

How much does tirzepatide (Mounjaro) cost?

Mounjaro is not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and is only available as a private, unsubsidised prescription.

There are 6 dosages of Mounjaro, which come in Vials and Kwikpens. The manufacturer has stopped producing Mounjaro Vials, so availability may be a challenge moving forward. However, Kwikpens are typically available in Australia.

The cost of 1 Vial (1 week worth of Mounjaro) is dependent on the dosage. 2.5mg and 5mg dosages generally cost $100 – $130, and 7.5mg and 10mg dosages cost about $155 – $180.

Kwikpens (containing 4 weeks worth of Mounjaro) are typically available in Australia, with 12.5mg and 15mg dosages costing between $670 and $750. The 2.5mg dosage costs between $280 and $330 for a Kwikpen, and 5mg dosages cost $390 – $450. The 7.5mg and 10mg Kwikpens typically cost around $540 – $600.

How do you take tirzepatide?

Tirzepatide is available in single-use vials and is administered through subcutaneous injection. It is injected into the fat under the skin, usually in the stomach, thighs or arms, typically once a week.[4]

It’s best to follow your doctor’s directions when administering tirzepatide or any other medications.

Who can take tirzepatide?

In Australia, tirzepatide is approved for adults with a BMI of 30 or above or a BMI of 27 with a weight-related comorbid illness, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed to support weight management and improve related health outcomes.

It’s not suitable for those with type 1 diabetes or other forms of the disease. If you’re allergic to tirzepatide or any of its components, you should avoid this medication. If you have additional health issues, such as gastrointestinal diseases, pancreatitis, diabetic eye problems, heart failure, or impaired kidney or liver function, you may not be eligible for tirzepatide or your doctor needs to closely monitor your condition while using tirzepatide.[5] 

Side effects of tirzepatide

Tirzepatide, like other medications, may come with some side effects.

Understanding these can help you manage them effectively and communicate any concerns with your doctor. In the same way, looking up home delivery of ‘semaglutide Australia’, ‘orlistat Australia’, or ozempic online isn’t enough; you need to understand the potential risks to ensure your safety and tolerability of the medication.

The common side effects linked to tirzepatide include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are frequent but usually decrease over time, especially as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Diarrhea and constipation: These contrasting effects can be bothersome but are usually manageable.
• Abdominal pain and bloating: You might experience discomfort or swelling in your stomach area.
• Reflux and indigestion: This can manifest as heartburn or discomfort in the upper stomach.
• Other less serious side effects: These include tiredness and reactions at the injection site, such as redness or itchiness.

Although rare, there are some serious side effects that require immediate medical attention:

• Acute pancreatitis: Look out for severe stomach and back pain that doesn’t go away, which may be accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms such as rashes, swelling of the face, neck, or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and hives need urgent attention.
• Gallbladder issues: Severe upper stomach pain, fever, jaundice, or clay-coloured stools could indicate gallbladder problems.^[6]

If you experience any side effects, it’s important to tell your doctor right away so they can provide advice and support. Before deciding to stop any medication, including tirzepatide, consult your doctor. They can guide you through the process and provide alternatives if necessary.

Side effects of compounded tirzepatide

On May 21, 2024, the Australian government banned compounded tirzepatide and other compounded diabetes and weight loss medicines. This decision followed increasing adverse reports, including hospitalization due to incretin medications like tirzepatide, aimed at protecting public health.[7]

Tirzepatide and other medications

Tirzepatide, similar to many medications, can interact with other drugs. Because it slows down the rate at which food is emptied into the intestines, tirzepatide may affect the effectiveness of slow-release medicines, fast-absorbing medicines, and medications that have a narrow therapeutic index, such as warfarin.[8]

Tirzepatide may reduce the effect of oral contraceptives such as the pill, depending on the dose. Ask your doctor if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill and whether you need further protection.

Make sure to ask your doctor if you have any questions about the medications you’re taking.

Medicines you should not use with tirzepatide

Tirzepatide can interact with dexamphetamine and related medications, including those used for ADHD and narcolepsy. Combining tirzepatide with amphetamine-type drugs may require medical supervision to prevent potential adverse effects. Consult an Australian healthcare professional before starting or continuing these medications together.

In total, there are 308 drugs known to interact with tirzepatide.[9] Medications with known interactions with tirzepatide include:

• Adderall (amphetamine / dextroamphetamine)
• Adderall XR (amphetamine / dextroamphetamine)
• Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
• Cialis (tadalafil)
• CoQ10 (ubiquinone)
• DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
• Diflucan (fluconazole)
• Eliquis (apixaban)
• Fish Oil (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids)
• Flonase (fluticasone nasal)
• Lexapro (escitalopram)
• Ozempic (semaglutide)
• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Xanax (alprazolam)
• Zyrtec (cetirizine)

How to dispose of tirzepatide (Mounjaro) pens and vials

Mounjaro comes in a vial with a needle, or in a pen with a needle, and you should avoid discarding either in the regular rubbish bin. Instead, securely place it in a sealed container or a sharps bin. You can buy these online from Chemist2U.

Is home delivery of tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available with Chemist2U?

Chemist2U offers a convenient and reliable way to get the medications and supplies you need from a pharmacy online. 

Ordering your pharmacy needs through Chemist2U is a straightforward and user-friendly process. To get started, simply upload your eScript to our website or app.

Besides handling your prescription needs, we also offer a wide range of over-the-counter medications, which you can browse and purchase along with your prescription items. After placing your order, a local pharmacist fills it before it is delivered right to your doorstep.

For orders placed before the cutoff time, usually 2.00 p.m. (which may vary by location), you should receive your medications the same day. 

Have your medication delivered by placing an order online at Chemist2U today!

Please Note: Chemist2U does not endorse or promote the therapeutic benefit of any medication. Any decision to administer a therapeutic good should be taken in consultation with your doctor.

References

^[1] https://www.drugs.com/tirzepatide.html

^[2] https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038

^[3] https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/auspmd/mounjaro

^[4] https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/auspmd/mounjaro

^[5] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf

^[6] https://www.nps.org.au/medicine-finder/mounjaro#6.-are-there-any-side-effects?

^[7] https://www.nps.org.au/medicine-finder/mounjaro#s3

^[8] https://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/tirzepatide.html