Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that has shown remarkable results for both diabetes and weight loss. This guide covers the complete dosing schedule from your first injection to the maximum 15 mg dose.
About Mounjaro
Mounjaro contains tirzepatide, which works on both GIP and GLP-1 receptors—making it more effective than GLP-1-only medications like Ozempic. It's FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, though it's commonly used off-label for weight loss. Zepbound is the same medication approved specifically for weight loss.
Mounjaro Dosage Chart
| Phase | Weeks | Dose | Pen Color | Expected Effect |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | 1-4 | 2.5 mg | Yellow | Body adjustment |
| Titration | 5-8 | 5 mg | Orange | First therapeutic dose |
| Titration | 9-12 | 7.5 mg | Green | Intermediate dose |
| Titration | 13-16 | 10 mg | Teal | Higher therapeutic |
| Titration | 17-20 | 12.5 mg | Maroon | Advanced dose |
| Maximum | 21+ | 15 mg | Blue | Maximum effect |
Flexible Dosing
Not everyone needs to reach 15 mg. Many patients achieve excellent results at 7.5 mg, 10 mg, or 12.5 mg. Your provider will help determine the right maintenance dose based on your response and goals.
What to Expect at Each Dose
The initiation dose to help your body adjust:
- • Primarily for GI system adjustment
- • Mild side effects possible (nausea, decreased appetite)
- • Some appetite suppression may begin
- • Weight loss minimal (1-3 lbs typical)
- • Blood sugar improvements start for diabetics
The first truly therapeutic dose:
- • Noticeable appetite reduction
- • "Food noise" begins to quiet
- • Side effects may temporarily increase then improve
- • Weight loss becomes more consistent
- • Many feel satisfied with smaller portions
A popular maintenance dose for many patients:
- • Strong appetite suppression
- • Steady weight loss (1-2+ lbs per week)
- • Many patients stay at this dose long-term
- • Good balance of efficacy and tolerability
- • Significant A1C improvements
A higher dose for enhanced effects:
- • Very effective appetite control
- • Continued steady weight loss
- • Another popular maintenance dose
- • Most GI side effects have resolved
- • Excellent glycemic control
An advanced dose for those needing more effect:
- • Very strong appetite suppression
- • May need to consciously maintain nutrition
- • Breaking through weight loss plateaus
- • Close to maximum therapeutic effect
The maximum approved dose:
- • Maximum therapeutic effect
- • Clinical trials showed up to 25% weight loss
- • Not everyone needs this dose
- • Best for those who plateau at lower doses
- • Maximum A1C reduction potential
Mounjaro Pen Details
Each Mounjaro pen is single-use and color-coded for easy identification:
| Dose | Pen Color | Pens per Box | Supply |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 mg | Yellow | 4 pens | 4 weeks |
| 5 mg | Orange | 4 pens | 4 weeks |
| 7.5 mg | Green | 4 pens | 4 weeks |
| 10 mg | Teal | 4 pens | 4 weeks |
| 12.5 mg | Maroon | 4 pens | 4 weeks |
| 15 mg | Blue | 4 pens | 4 weeks |
Managing Side Effects
- • Nausea (most common)
- • Diarrhea
- • Decreased appetite
- • Vomiting
- • Constipation
- • Stomach pain
- • Sulfur burps
- • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- • Avoid fatty, greasy, or spicy foods
- • Stay well hydrated
- • Eat slowly and stop when satisfied
- • Ginger tea for nausea
- • Take short walks after meals
For more detailed information on managing GI side effects, see our article on sulfur burps on Mounjaro.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I stay at each dose?
The standard protocol is 4 weeks at each dose before increasing. This gives your body time to adjust and helps minimize side effects. Your provider may adjust this based on your response.
What if I can't tolerate a higher dose?
You can stay at a lower dose indefinitely or even go back down. Many people find their optimal dose is 7.5 mg or 10 mg, not the maximum 15 mg. The best dose is one that gives you good results with tolerable side effects.
Is Mounjaro the same as Zepbound?
Yes, they contain the same active ingredient (tirzepatide) at the same doses. Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes, while Zepbound is approved for weight loss. The dosing schedule is identical.
What if I miss a dose?
If it's been less than 4 days since your missed dose, take it as soon as possible. If more than 4 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on your regular day.
Getting Mounjaro
Mounjaro requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Many telehealth platforms now offer Mounjaro or compounded tirzepatide. Check out our provider reviews to compare your options and find the best fit for your needs.
The Bottom Line
Mounjaro's titration schedule spans 20+ weeks from the 2.5 mg starting dose to the 15 mg maximum. The color-coded pens make it easy to track your progress. Remember, not everyone needs to reach 15 mg—work with your provider to find the dose that gives you the best results with manageable side effects.