How to Get a Prescription for Mounjaro: Complete Guide

Understanding Mounjaro

Mounjaro is a brand new injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It was approved by the FDA in May 2022. Mounjaro contains the active ingredient tirzepatide, which helps lower blood sugar levels in multiple ways. Tirzepatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to other diabetes medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Trulicity (dulaglutide). However, tirzepatide also activates the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor, giving it enhanced effects.

In clinical trials, Mounjaro has shown impressive results in improving blood sugar control and promoting weight loss in people with type 2 diabetes. At the highest studied dose of 15mg, people lost an average of 22.5 pounds over 72 weeks of treatment. This makes Mounjaro an appealing new option for managing type 2 diabetes and potentially obesity.

Who Can Get a Mounjaro Prescription?

Because Mounjaro is a prescription medication, you need approval from a healthcare provider to obtain it legally. Mounjaro is FDA approved for use in adults with type 2 diabetes to improve blood sugar control. To get a prescription, you typically need to meet the following criteria:

• Have a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes
• Have inadequate blood sugar control on other diabetes medications like metformin
• Have a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or higher

Your doctor may prescribe Mounjaro alone or along with other diabetes medications to optimize your blood sugar levels. They will also monitor your diabetes control and adjust your dose based on your response. The starting dose of Mounjaro is 2.5mg injected subcutaneously once weekly, which can be increased to 5mg and then 15mg if needed for glucose control.

Off-Label Use for Weight Loss

While Mounjaro is only FDA approved for type 2 diabetes, some doctors may prescribe it off-label for chronic weight management. This is due to its impressive weight loss effects shown in clinical studies. For example, in one study the average weight loss at the highest 15mg dose was 22.5 pounds over 15 months compared to 6.9 pounds for placebo.

To get Mounjaro prescribed for weight loss, you typically need:

• A BMI of 30 or higher, or 27+ with an obesity-related condition like hypertension or high cholesterol
• Inability to lose weight through diet and exercise alone
• No contraindications or safety concerns

Doctors may require you to try other weight loss medications first like Saxenda or phentermine before approving off-label Mounjaro. The dose may also be limited to 5-10mg weekly. Always work closely with your provider if interested in using Mounjaro for weight management.

How to Get a Prescription for Mounjaro

1. Make an Appointment with Your Doctor

The first step is scheduling an office visit with your primary care physician or endocrinologist. Explain that you have type 2 diabetes and you’re interested in trying Mounjaro. Come prepared to discuss:

• Your current diabetes treatment regimen
• Your blood sugar levels over the past ~3 months
• Any trouble reaching/maintaining your HbA1c goal
• Your interest in Mounjaro and how it can help

If seeking Mounjaro for weight loss, also discuss your difficulties losing and maintaining weight through diet and exercise alone. Providing documentation of your past weight loss efforts can support your case.

2. Get Evaluated for Safety and Appropriateness

Your doctor will review your medical history and conduct any necessary exams or lab tests to confirm it is safe to use Mounjaro. Some considerations include:

• History of diabetic retinopathy or foot/leg complications
• Severe kidney or liver disease
• Congestive heart failure
• Active gallbladder disease
• History of pancreatitis
• Personal or family history of thyroid tumors or MTC

They’ll want to ensure your diabetes isn’t well-controlled with other medications first. You’ll also discuss dosing considerations based on your age, kidney function, concurrent meds, and risk factors.

3. Get Educated on Proper Administration

Mounjaro is injected subcutaneously once weekly, meaning into fat tissue right under the skin. Potential injection sites include your thigh, stomach, or upper arm. Your doctor’s office should provide training on how to properly inject Mounjaro at home.

Be sure you understand how to:

• Prepare the pen device
• Inject at correct angles based on site
• Rotate injection locations
• Properly store pens
• Dispose of needles safely

Ask any questions you have about self-administration before starting your prescription. Having the right injection technique helps maximize effectiveness and safety.

4. Obtain Prior Authorization Approval

Because Mounjaro is new and expensive, most insurance plans will require prior authorization from your doctor before covering it. This involves submitting documentation of medical necessity and trial/failure of other diabetes medications first.

Be patient as the prior authorization process can take several weeks. Consider applying for co-pay assistance from the manufacturer or looking into other ways to reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Without insurance, Mounjaro can cost over $1000 per month.

5. Start Treatment at the Lowest Effective Dose

Once insurance approved, you can fill your Mounjaro prescription at a retail or mail-order pharmacy. Always start at the lowest dose of 2.5mg weekly and follow your doctor’s titration schedule for increasing the dose.

Expect to visit your doctor frequently when first starting Mounjaro for routine lab work and dose adjustments. Monitoring for side effects like nausea, vomiting, or hypoglycemia is also important—report any concerning symptoms promptly.

Be patient, as it can take several months to achieve the full glucose-lowering and weight loss effects. But stick with treatment and communicate regularly with your prescribing doctor for the best results.

Getting Mounjaro Online or Without a Prescription

You may come across online pharmacies, telehealth companies, or other sources claiming to offer “easy access” to Mounjaro without a prescription. However, this is illegal and can be very dangerous.

The only legitimate way to get Mounjaro is with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider familiar with your medical history. Self-administering prescription drugs bypassing medical supervision can lead to serious health risks like:

• Hypoglycemia
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney injury
• Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Gallbladder problems
• Medication interactions

Online pharmacies marketing prescription drugs without requiring prescriptions are operating illegally. Their products may be counterfeit, tampered with, or contain improper dosing. Only use a legitimate U.S. pharmacy that requires your doctor’s prescription.

Speak to your healthcare provider if you have trouble affording Mounjaro. They can help identify ways to reduce costs or find alternative medications that are more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Mounjaro to work?

It can take several weeks to notice an effect from Mounjaro. Maximal glucose-lowering and weight loss results are typically seen after 3-6 months of weekly treatment.

What are the most common side effects?

The most common side effects of Mounjaro include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, and constipation. Side effects are often worst when first starting and improve over time.

Can I take Mounjaro with other diabetes medications?

Yes, Mounjaro can be taken along with other diabetes medications like metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors, or insulin. Your doctor will determine the best medication regimen for your specific health needs.

How much weight can I expect to lose on Mounjaro?

In clinical trials, people with obesity lost an average of 22.5 pounds on the 15mg dose of Mounjaro over 15 months. But weight loss results can vary significantly between individuals.

Does Mounjaro have a patient assistance program?

Yes, people with diabetes who are uninsured or struggle with medication costs may qualify for the Lilly Cares prescription assistance program. Talk to your healthcare provider for help applying.

The Bottom Line

Mounjaro is an exciting new medication that can help manage type 2 diabetes and promote weight loss. But due to safety concerns, it’s critical to only use Mounjaro under the supervision of a knowledgeable healthcare provider. Never try to source brand name or generic Mounjaro online or without a valid prescription. Working closely with your doctor gives you the best chance of using Mounjaro effectively and safely.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.