Is Mounjaro safe for people with type 2 diabetes?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is considered safe and effective for adults with type 2 diabetes when prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional in the UK, with national guidance describing it as reasonably well tolerated in the clinical trials that informed recommendations [1][2]. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal—nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, and constipation—typically mild to moderate, more frequent during dose increases, and often settling over time [2][5]. Hypoglycaemia can occur, especially when used with other glucose-lowering medicines like insulin or sulfonylureas, so doses may need adjustment and monitoring is advised [1][4][5]. Rare but more serious risks such as pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and dehydration-related complications have been reported with this class; seek prompt medical advice for severe or persistent abdominal symptoms or signs of dehydration [2][3]. UK regulators also remind clinicians and patients to report suspected side effects via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme [3].
- UK guidance finds tirzepatide “reasonably well tolerated” for type 2 diabetes when used appropriately [1][2].
- Most common side effects: nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation; usually mild to moderate and may improve with slower dose increases [2][4].
- Risk of low blood sugar rises when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas; clinicians may adjust doses and monitor [1][4][5].
- Serious but uncommon risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and dehydration-related complications requiring prompt assessment [2][3].
- UK regulators advise ongoing safety monitoring and reporting of suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme [3].
Sources
- [1] NICE TA924 — Tirzepatide for treating type 2 diabetes in adults
- [2] NICE — Tirzepatide local formulary information: Patient safety
- [3] MHRA Drug Safety Update — GLP-1 receptor agonists: side effects & misuse reminder
- [4] BOB ICB — Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) Initiation Guide (PDF)
- [5] Diabetes UK — Mounjaro (tirzepatide) overview