The GLP List

Mounjaro

tirzepatide

Made by Eli Lilly

A weekly injectable approved for type 2 diabetes management, and the diabetes counterpart to the weight-management medication Zepbound.

What is it approved for?· FDA-approved use

Type 2 diabetes management

How it works· Editorial explanation

Tirzepatide acts on two gut hormone pathways (GLP-1 and GIP) involved in insulin release and blood sugar regulation.

How it's taken· Editorial explanation

Weekly injection, self-administered under the skin

  • Injected once a week, on the same day each week
  • Given under the skin — commonly in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm
  • Comes in a prefilled pen
  • Dose is typically increased gradually over time by a prescribing clinician

Common questions· Editorial explanation

Is Mounjaro the same as Zepbound?

Same active ingredient and manufacturer, different approved use.

Do people get this prescribed off-label for weight loss?

Off-label prescribing happens with many medications; whether it's appropriate is a decision for you and your prescribing clinician.

Cost overview

List price is typically over $1,000/month without insurance. Because it's prescribed for diabetes, coverage patterns can differ from weight-management-specific medications. See our cost guide for more.

Read the full cost guide →

Insurance overview

Often covered more consistently than weight-management-specific medications when prescribed for type 2 diabetes, though this still varies by plan.

Understand prior authorization →

Common side effects· Discuss with a professional

  • Nausea
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Vomiting

Important safety information

This is not a complete safety overview. Talk to a healthcare professional about your full medical history, current medications, and any personal or family history that might affect whether this medication is appropriate for you.

Mounjaro vs similar medications· Editorial explanation

Mounjaro is most often discussed alongside Zepbound, since they share an active ingredient, and alongside Ozempic and Wegovy as part of the broader GLP-1 conversation.

Questions to discuss with a healthcare professional· Discuss with a professional

  • Is this being prescribed for an approved use or off-label?
  • What would the dose-increase schedule look like for me?
  • What should I do if I miss a dose?
  • How does this interact with medications I already take?
  • What would make you recommend stopping or switching?

A note on this article: This site is for general information only. It isn't medical advice, and it doesn't replace a conversation with a qualified healthcare professional who knows your health history. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Related medications

Zepbound

A weekly injectable that's approved for chronic weight management, and shares its active ingredient with the diabetes medication Mounjaro.

Ozempic

A weekly injectable approved for type 2 diabetes management, widely known even though it's not FDA-approved specifically for weight loss.

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