As previously mentioned, unsupervised use of this drug can bring about hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), with consequences like “dizziness or lightheadedness, blurred vision, sweating, slurred speech, hunger, drowsiness, shakiness, weakness, headache, fast heart rate and feeling jittery.” For people with diabetes, using it in conjunction with alcohol can both increase the risk, and mask the warning signs, of hypoglycemia.
And that’s not all
The possible side effects of tirzepatide, currently marketed only as Mounjaro, range from embarrassing eructation (or in plain English, burping) to quite serious. One might experience nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, indigestion, diarrhea, and paradoxically, constipation. The likelihood of abdominal pain increases if the drug is used in conjunction with fizzy drinks. In the realm of small sacrifices, this is one that a person will hopefully not have too much trouble choosing to make.
In addition, it affects body parts other than the digestive system. The obvious one to look out for is a reaction at the injection site, in the form of swelling, redness, or itching. If the patient does not rotate injection sites according to a careful protocol, other local problems can develop.
Further possibilities include hair loss and headache, both of which a lot of people might be willing to endure in exchange for elusive slimness, but it just gets worse from there. These other things happen rarely, but there are reports of eye problems, renal failure, pancreatitis, hypoglycemia, and gastrointestinal bleeding. People with an inherited tendency toward thyroid tumors should probably stay away from tirzepatide.
Interestingly, one possible side effect is listed as “decreased appetite,” which is certainly to be hoped for because after all, isn’t that the whole point? On the bright side, it is said that many of the common side effects are mild, and some disappear after a few days. Or weeks.
Avoidance
A helpful website lists several moves a patient can make to avoid unnecessary side effects, and actually this list would benefit just about anyone:
— Drink 64 ounces of fluid a day.
— Sip liquids between meals, not with meals.
— Wait about 30 minutes after a meal to drink anything and avoid drinking 30 minutes before a meal.
— Eat smaller meals (try not to eat until you are full).
— Eat lean, protein-rich foods daily.
— Choose foods and drinks that are low in fats and sugar (low carbohydrates.)
— Avoid alcohol.
— Chew foods thoroughly to help with digestion.
— Take a short walk after eating.
Your responses and feedback are welcome!
Source: “Mounjaro,” Drugs.com, undated
Source: “Possible side effects,” Mounjaro.com, undated
Source: “CNMRI: Neurology, Sleep Medicine, MRI,” CNMRI.com, undated
Image by Eli Lilly
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