Is Mounjaro suitable for me?

When Mounjaro Must Not Be Used

Do not use Mounjaro if you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to tirzepatide or any of its listed ingredients. Symptoms of a severe allergic response can include swelling of the face or throat, problems breathing or swallowing, widespread rash, or intense itching. Seek urgent medical attention if these occur.

Mounjaro should not be used if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. If there is a possibility you may be pregnant, speak with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

If you become pregnant while using Mounjaro, contact your healthcare provider promptly to review your treatment.

Mounjaro is not approved for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age.

If you are unsure whether any of these apply to you, discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting Mounjaro. Another treatment option may be more appropriate in some cases.

When Extra Care May Be Needed

In some situations, Mounjaro may still be prescribed, but additional caution or monitoring may be required.

Notify your healthcare provider before starting Mounjaro if you:

Have had inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).Mounjaro may increase the risk of pancreatitis in some people. Seek medical attention if you develop severe and persistent abdominal pain, with or without vomiting.

Have severe digestive problems.Because Mounjaro slows the emptying of the stomach, it may not be suitable for people with significant gastrointestinal disease, including severe gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying).

Have diabetesrelated eye problems (diabetic retinopathy).Rapid improvements in blood sugar control can sometimes temporarily worsen diabetic eye disease. Your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring.

Have heart failure, kidney problems, or liver problems.These conditions may affect how your treatment is managed, and closer supervision may be needed.

Have experienced depression, thoughts of selfharm, or other significant mental health concerns.It is important that your healthcare provider is aware of your mental health history so they can assess whether Mounjaro is appropriate and monitor you if needed.

Are taking other diabetes medicines.If you use insulin or medicines such as sulfonylureas, the risk of low blood sugar may increase when starting Mounjaro. Your doses may need adjustment.

Because Mounjaro slows digestion, it can also affect how some medicines taken by mouth are absorbed. This includes oral contraceptive pills. Your healthcare provider may recommend an additional or alternative form of contraception when starting treatment or increasing your dose.

Being open about your full medical history and all medicines you take helps ensure that Mounjaro is prescribed safely and appropriately.

Can Mounjaro Be Used While Breastfeeding?

It is not clear whether tirzepatide is transferred into breast milk. For this reason, Mounjaro is generally not recommended during breastfeeding.

If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, speak with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. They can help you consider the potential risks and benefits and discuss other options if needed.

Considering Your Next Steps

If you are thinking about Mounjaro, the first step is a conversation with your healthcare provider. They will review your medical history, any current conditions, and the medicines you take to assess whether this treatment is appropriate for you.

In some cases, Mounjaro may be suitable. In others, a different approach may be safer or better aligned with your needs. Every person’s health situation is different, and treatment decisions should be based on a careful assessment of potential benefits and risks.

Taking the time to ask questions and understand your options can help you feel confident in whichever path you choose.

Please Note: Funding in South Africa

Mounjaro is not funded by the state in South Africa; medical aid cover varies by scheme and plan. This means you will need to pay the full private prescription cost if it is prescribed for you.

Consultation fees with your healthcare provider may also apply. Your pharmacy can provide uptodate information about pricing and availability.

Important safety information

Prescription medicine. Mounjaro® is approved in South Africa for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, as an adjunct to diet and exercise, and for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity, in conjunction with a reduced-energy diet and increased physical activity. Mounjaro® contains the active ingredient tirzepatide and is available as a solution for injection in a pre-filled pen (2.5 mg/0.5 mL, 5 mg/0.5 mL, 7.5 mg/0.5 mL, 10 mg/0.5 mL, 12.5 mg/0.5 mL and 15 mg/0.5 mL). Mounjaro® has risks and benefits. Ask your healthcare provider if Mounjaro® is right for you. Use strictly as directed. If you experience side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. For more information, see the approved professional information (tirzepatide) available at: https://www.sahpra.org.za/registered-health-products/