Understanding Compounded Medications

Compounded tirzepatide is prescribed under federal law but is not FDA-approved, meaning it does not undergo the same regulatory scrutiny for safety, efficacy, or manufacturing standards. Your healthcare provider at Good Medics may recommend a specific dosage of compounded tirzepatide based on your health assessment and individual needs.

Warning: Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors

Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, was shown to cause thyroid C-cell tumors in rodent studies. It is unknown whether the same risk applies to humans. Alert your provider if you notice a lump or swelling in your neck, experience hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath, as these may be symptoms of thyroid cancer.

Do not use tirzepatide if you or any of your family members have been diagnosed with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

What is Tirzepatide Used For?

Tirzepatide is a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It is used for long-term weight management alongside dietary and lifestyle modifications in individuals with:

• A BMI of 30 kg/m² or greater (obesity)
• A BMI of 27 kg/m² or greater (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol

Limitations of Use

• Tirzepatide should not be combined with other medications containing GLP-1 receptor agonists or GIP receptor agonists.
• The safety and effectiveness of tirzepatide with other weight-loss products have not been studied.
• Tirzepatide has not been evaluated in individuals with a history of pancreatitis.
• This medication is not a treatment for type 1 diabetes.

Who Should Not Use Tirzepatide?

Do not take tirzepatide if:

• You or a family member has been diagnosed with medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2.
• You have had an allergic reaction to tirzepatide or any of its components.

How to Take Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide is a self-administered subcutaneous injection taken once weekly, on the same day each week, in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Your provider may adjust your dosage gradually every four weeks to optimize treatment effects.

Do not adjust your dose or discontinue use without consulting your healthcare provider.

What to Discuss with Your Provider Before Taking Tirzepatide

Before beginning tirzepatide, inform your healthcare provider of all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products you take.

Medication Interactions:

• Diabetes medications, including insulin or sulfonylureas (e.g., glimepiride or glyburide), may interact with tirzepatide, increasing the risk of low blood sugar.
• Tirzepatide slows gastric emptying, which may affect how other oral medications are absorbed. Your provider will help adjust your medication schedule as needed.
• Other GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Wegovy, Ozempic, Saxenda, Victoza, Trulicity, or Byetta should not be used alongside tirzepatide.
• Weight-loss supplements or additional medications intended for weight control may not be safe in combination with tirzepatide.

Medical Conditions to Disclose

Before starting tirzepatide, tell your provider if you have or have had:

• Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
• Thyroid cancer
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney disease
• Diabetic eye disease (diabetic retinopathy)
• Depression or suicidal thoughts
• Gastrointestinal disorders such as ileus

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Pregnant women should not use tirzepatide. Animal studies suggest potential harm to an unborn baby. Weight loss during pregnancy is not recommended.
• If planning pregnancy, discontinue tirzepatide at least two months before conception, as it stays in the body for an extended period.
• If breastfeeding, consult your provider, as tirzepatide has been detected in the milk of lactating animals.

Serious Side Effects

If you experience a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.

Severe side effects include:

• Thyroid tumors or cancer (Symptoms: lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or breathing problems)
• Pancreatitis (Symptoms: severe stomach pain that radiates to the back, nausea, vomiting)
• Gallbladder disease (Symptoms: upper abdominal pain, jaundice, fever, pale stools)
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in diabetics (Symptoms: dizziness, sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat)
• Kidney injury due to dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea
• Severe allergic reactions (Symptoms: swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, rash, fainting)
• Diabetic eye complications (Symptoms: vision changes)
• Increased heart rate
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior
• Needle safety: Never share needles to prevent infection risks.

Common Side Effects

Some side effects are mild but should still be monitored:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Headache and dizziness
• Fatigue
• Heartburn or indigestion
• Low blood sugar (in diabetic patients)
• Increased gas (flatulence)
• Gastroesophageal reflux (acid reflux)

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience side effects, report them to your healthcare provider or the FDA MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.

This document is not exhaustive. For complete safety information, refer to the official prescribing information or consult your healthcare provider.