How long do Mounjaro side effects last?

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes when paired with healthy lifestyle changes. It can also lead to substantial weight loss. We asked Dr. Felix Gussone, MD about how long Mounjaro's side effects last.

Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a type 2 diabetes medication you inject once a week, and it may also be prescribed off-label to help with weight loss. Mounjaro is similar to drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy in both how it works and possible side effects. 

How long side effects from Mounjaro last can vary from person to person, but generally, side effects are temporary and occur when starting the medication and with increases in the doses.  Mounjaro is a long-acting drug, meaning that these side effects could last days to weeks, depending on the individual.  

Mounjaro’s side effects are gastrointestinal and include nausea, diarrhea, reduced appetite, vomiting, constipation, indigestion, and stomach pain. Serious side effects are rare but may include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), kidney or gallbladder problems, or an allergic reaction to Mounjaro, which requires immediate medical attention. 

If you are experiencing side effects, speak with your healthcare provider about the option to adjust your dosage to reduce the severity of those side effects as your body acclimates to the medication.

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Current version

September 18, 2023

Written by

Felix Gussone, MD

Fact checked by

Yael Cooperman, MD

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About the medical reviewer

Yael Cooperman, MD, Ro

Yael Cooperman is a physician and works as a Senior Manager, Medical Content & Education at Ro.