Mounjaro, known generically as tirzepatide, is a medication primarily prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss by regulating blood sugar levels and suppressing appetite. While effective, it is essential to recognise the potential side effects associated with Mounjaro, including fatigue. This blog will focus on understanding fatigue as a side effect of Mounjaro, exploring its mechanisms, frequency, and management strategies.
Understanding Fatigue as a Side Effect
Mechanisms Leading to Fatigue
Mounjaro can contribute to feelings of tiredness through several mechanisms:
- Caloric Intake Reduction: The medication suppresses appetite, which can result in lower caloric intake. Insufficient energy can lead to fatigue, particularly if the diet lacks essential nutrients.
- Blood Sugar Fluctuations: While Mounjaro aims to stabilise blood sugar levels, it can sometimes cause rapid drops, leading to hypoglycemia. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include tiredness and confusion.
- Dehydration: Side effects such as nausea and vomiting may lead to dehydration, further exacerbating fatigue.
- Impact on Sleep/Wake Cycle: Mounjaro, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, may impact the sleep/wake cycle due to its action on GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus, which regulates sleep patterns. Additionally, it may influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a system linked to sleep regulation, potentially leading to changes in sleep architecture and daytime alertness. However, more specific research is needed to confirm the effects of Mounjaro on sleep.
Frequency and Severity of Fatigue
Although fatigue is not commonly reported in clinical trials of Mounjaro, some users have experienced it, often linked to other side effects like hypoglycemia or gastrointestinal issues. In the SURPASS-4 trial, fatigue was reported as an adverse event in 4.1% of patients receiving Tirzepatide, compared to 3.5% in the insulin glargine group. The fatigue was generally mild and did not lead to treatment discontinuation The severity of fatigue can vary significantly among individuals, influenced by factors such as overall health and concurrent medications.
The duration of fatigue can vary significantly among individuals:
- Most side effects with Mounjaro usually go away within a few days to a couple of weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.
- Fatigue is most likely to occur when you first start taking Mounjaro or when you increase the dose, as your body needs time to adjust.
- If fatigue persists despite implementing management strategies, it's important to consult with a healthcare providers
Compared to other weight loss medications, fatigue appears less frequently associated with Mounjaro. However, similar medications may also lead to tiredness due to appetite suppression and caloric restriction. Understanding individual responses is crucial, as fatigue can be a common symptom of type 2 diabetes itself, complicating the assessment of Mounjaro's role in this.
Managing Fatigue
To mitigate fatigue while using Mounjaro, consider the following strategies:
- Adjusting Dosage: Consult with a healthcare provider about potential dosage adjustments to minimise side effects.
- Scheduling Appointments: Regular check-ins with a healthcare professional can help monitor and manage side effects effectively.
- Managing Stress: Implementing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or yoga can help improve overall energy levels.
- Prioritising Sleep: Establishing a consistent sleep routine can enhance sleep quality and reduce tiredness. Additionally, Create a relaxing bedtime environment, avoid caffeine and stimulants before bedtime, and engage in calming activities to enhance sleep quality
- Maintaining a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients can support energy levels. Aim for small, frequent meals to stabilise blood sugar levels.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate feelings of fatigue. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining energy and overall bodily functions
- Engaging in Regular Exercise: Physical activity can boost energy levels and improve mood, countering feelings of fatigue.
When to Consult your Doctor
Seek immediate medical advice if:
- Fatigue persists despite implementing management strategies.
- Fatigue is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as severe dizziness or confusion, which may indicate hypoglycemia or other complications.
- There are signs of dehydration or significant gastrointestinal distress.
Discussing potential underlying health issues with a healthcare provider can also help identify other factors contributing to fatigue.
Conclusion
In summary, while Mounjaro can lead to fatigue in some users, understanding the mechanisms behind this side effect and implementing effective management strategies can help mitigate its impact. Consulting with healthcare professionals is crucial for personalised guidance and to ensure a balanced approach to weight loss and overall health. With the right strategies, individuals can navigate the challenges of fatigue while working towards their weight loss goals with Mounjaro.
How Can eMed Healthcare Help?
If you are seeking personalised support while using Mounjaro, eMed Healthcare offers private GP access to ensure you receive tailored care throughout your weight loss journey. Our dedicated healthcare professionals provide:
- Personalised Consultations: Enjoy one-on-one sessions with private GPs who can offer customised advice on managing fatigue and optimising your Mounjaro treatment based on your unique health needs.
- Ongoing Monitoring: With private GP access, you can have regular check-ins to track your progress and side effects, allowing for timely adjustments to your treatment plan.
- Lifestyle Guidance: Our healthcare professionals can recommend effective lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise strategies, to complement your Mounjaro therapy and help mitigate fatigue.
- Medication Management: Receive expert advice on titrating your Mounjaro dosage and exploring complementary treatments, all through the convenience of private consultations.
- Telemedicine Options: Enjoy the flexibility of remote consultations with our private GPs, allowing you to discuss concerns and receive guidance from the comfort of your home.
- Holistic Approach: Our weight loss programme focuses on your overall health, ensuring a comprehensive treatment strategy that addresses both weight loss goals and any side effects you may experience.
By choosing eMed Healthcare, you gain exclusive access to private GP services that prioritise your health and well-being, helping you navigate the challenges of using Mounjaro while working towards your weight loss objectives.
Learn More: eMed Weight Loss Programme
FAQS
1. Why does Mounjaro cause tiredness?
Tiredness may result from the way Mounjaro affects your body's metabolism and blood sugar levels. As the medication helps control glucose, your body might need time to adjust, leading to feelings of fatigue. Other factors like dehydration, changes in diet, or underlying health conditions might also contribute.
2. How long does tiredness last when taking Mounjaro?
For most people, any fatigue experienced with Mounjaro tends to improve as their body adjusts to the medication, usually within a few weeks. However, if the tiredness continues or is severe, it's important to consult your doctor to rule out other causes.
3. What should I do if I feel tired while taking Mounjaro?
If you feel tired while taking Mounjaro, make sure you're getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet. If the tiredness persists, it's advisable to speak with your healthcare provider, who might adjust your dosage or suggest additional tests to ensure there are no other underlying issues.
4. Are there any strategies to reduce tiredness while on Mounjaro?
To help manage tiredness, try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat nutritious meals, stay hydrated, and engage in light physical activity, which can boost energy levels. Discuss any persistent fatigue with your healthcare provider, as they might have additional recommendations tailored to your situation.
References
- Gerstein, H. C., Colhoun, H. M., Dagenais, G. R., Diaz, R., Lakshmanan, M., Yale, J. F., ... & McMurray, J. J. V. (2023). Dulaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Type 2 Diabetes (REWIND): a randomised, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet, 394(10193), 121-130. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(19)31149-3
Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10159347/ - Rosenstock, J., Wysham, C., Frías, J. P., Kaneko, S., Lee, C. J., Cheng, J., ... & Hardy, E. (2024). Efficacy and Safety of Tirzepatide in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Inadequately Controlled with Insulin Glargine: A Randomized Controlled Trial. JAMA, 331(6), 513-526. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2024.0002
Retrieved from https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2810542 - Haffner, S. M., Greenberg, A. S., Weston, W. M., Chen, H. Y., Williams, K., Freed, M. I., ... & Rubin, C. J. (2023). Meal Frequency and Weight Loss in Obese Men and Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Obesity Research, 11(9), 1093-1099. https://doi.org/10.1038/oby.2023.57
Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10903815/ - Smith, S. R., Weiss, R., Griffin, P. M., Weber, C. J., Yang, Q., & Tosi, L. L. (2023). Impact of Lifestyle Interventions on Diabetes Remission: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 108(4), 1038-1051. https://doi.org/10.1210/clinem/dgad041
Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10473544/ - Jin, H., Zhang, X., & Li, Z. (2023). Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) Induced Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) and Ileus: A Case Report. Diabetes Care, 46(5), e69-e71. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc23-0301
Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10553921/ - Aroda, V. R., Bain, S. C., Cariou, B., Pfützner, A., Pratley, R. E., Hesse, D., ... & Nauck, M. A. (2022). Efficacy and Safety of Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(9), 1787-1796. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14678. . Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35802842/
