Indications: Tirzepatide is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

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Contraindications: Tirzepatide is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It should not be used in patients with a history of severe gastrointestinal disease, including gastroparesis.

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Warnings and Precautions:

1. Risk of Thyroid C-Cell Tumors: Cases of MTC have been reported in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including tirzepatide. Patients should be assessed for risk factors prior to initiation and monitored for signs and symptoms of thyroid tumors.
2. Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis, has been reported with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Patients should be informed of the characteristic symptoms of pancreatitis and advised to discontinue tirzepatide and seek medical attention if symptoms occur.
3. Hypoglycemia with Concomitant Use of Insulin and Insulin Secretagogues: The risk of hypoglycemia is increased when tirzepatide is used in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogues. Dose adjustments may be required to minimize the risk.
4. Acute Kidney Injury: Cases of acute renal failure and worsening of chronic renal failure have been reported with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Patients should be monitored for changes in renal function, and caution should be exercised in patients with renal impairment.
5. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, angioedema, and urticaria, have been reported with tirzepatide. If a hypersensitivity reaction occurs, discontinue tirzepatide and initiate appropriate medical treatment.
6. Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation may occur with tirzepatide. These adverse reactions may decrease over time or with dose reduction.

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Adverse Reactions:The most common adverse reactions (≥5%) associated with tirzepatide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and constipation.

Pregnancy and Lactation: Tirzepatide should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause fetal harm. It is unknown whether tirzepatide is excreted in human milk, and caution should be exercised when administering tirzepatide to breastfeeding women.

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Drug Interactions:Caution should be exercised when co-administering tirzepatide with other drugs that affect gastrointestinal motility or absorption, as well as drugs that may increase the risk of hypoglycemia.

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Patient Counseling Information:Patients should be counseled on the risks and benefits of tirzepatide therapy, including the potential for gastrointestinal adverse reactions, hypoglycemia, and the importance of adherence to diet and exercise. Patients should also be educated on the signs and symptoms of thyroid tumors, pancreatitis, and hypersensitivity reactions.

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For more information on Tirzepatide safety and efficacy, please visit HERE.

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