This article covers what Mounjaro is, who can take it, how it works, how to access it, what it costs, and ways to save—including coupon programs and insurance options.
What Is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. These hormones help regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. Unlike older diabetes drugs that target just GLP-1, tirzepatide also targets GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), enhancing its metabolic effects.
FDA Approval:
- Approved in May 2022 for adults with type 2 diabetes, to be used alongside diet and exercise.
- Not approved for weight loss, although clinical trials for obesity (e.g., SURMOUNT-1, SURMOUNT-2) have shown significant reductions in body weight.
Who Is Mounjaro For?
Approved Use:
- Adults with type 2 diabetes.
Not for:
- Type 1 diabetes
- Children under 18
- People with a personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Off-Label Use:
- Weight loss: Many healthcare providers prescribe Mounjaro off-label for patients with obesity or overweight with related health conditions (e.g., PCOS, insulin resistance).
- Clinical trials have shown that Mounjaro may help patients lose 15–20% of their body weight, depending on dosage.
How Does Mounjaro Work?
Mounjaro mimics two gut hormones:
- GLP-1 slows gastric emptying, promotes satiety, and increases insulin release.
- GIP enhances insulin sensitivity and reduces glucagon levels.
Together, these effects:
- Lower blood sugar (A1C)
- Reduce appetite
- Aid weight loss
- Improve insulin function
How to Get Mounjaro
You need a prescription. You can get it via:
1. In-Person Doctors
Your primary care physician, endocrinologist, or obesity medicine specialist can assess your eligibility and prescribe Mounjaro.
2. Telehealth Services
Platforms like:
- Ro – https://ro.co
- PlushCare – https://plushcare.com
- Sequence – https://joinsequence.com
These services can evaluate you online and, if appropriate, prescribe Mounjaro.
Where to Buy Mounjaro
Mounjaro is available at most U.S. pharmacies, including:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Costco
- Walmart
- Kroger
- Mail-order pharmacies (especially if using savings cards or insurance)
How Much Does Mounjaro Cost?
As of 2025, the list price of Mounjaro without insurance is:
🧾 ~$1,070 per month (one pen per week, four pens per box)
This price may vary slightly by pharmacy.
Ways to Save on Mounjaro
1. Lilly Savings Card
Eli Lilly offers a savings card for eligible patients with commercial insurance:
- Pay as little as $25/month
- Maximum savings: $150 per fill, up to 12 fills per year
✅ Apply here: https://www.mounjaro.com/savings-resources
Note: It doesn’t work with Medicare, Medicaid, or other federal insurance.
2. GoodRx or SingleCare
These services may provide discount coupons if paying out of pocket:
Savings vary—sometimes as low as $900–$950/month.
3. Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)
Low-income, uninsured patients may qualify for free or reduced-cost Mounjaro via:
- Lilly Cares: https://www.lillycares.com
Insurance Coverage for Mounjaro
Coverage varies by insurer and diagnosis:
✔ Covered for Type 2 Diabetes
Most private insurers and Medicare Part D cover Mounjaro when prescribed for type 2 diabetes.
✖ Not Covered for Weight Loss
Even if prescribed off-label for obesity, most insurance plans will not cover Mounjaro unless it’s for type 2 diabetes. That includes Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial plans.
To increase your chances of coverage:
- Have a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes
- Provide supporting labs (e.g., elevated A1C)
- Use prior authorization if required
Common Side Effects
Mounjaro is generally well tolerated, but common side effects include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Constipation
Serious but rare risks:
- Pancreatitis
- Gallbladder issues
- Thyroid tumors
Always discuss side effects and risks with your healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
Mounjaro is a groundbreaking treatment for type 2 diabetes, with promising results for weight loss. While its list price is steep, discount cards, telehealth access, and insurance for diabetes make it more accessible. If you’re considering Mounjaro, speak to a healthcare provider about your eligibility and cost-saving options.
Sources & References
- Mounjaro Official Site & Savings Program
https://www.mounjaro.com/savings-resources - Clinical Trials (SURPASS & SURMOUNT)
- Eli Lilly Cost Info
https://pricinginfo.lilly.com/mounjaro - GoodRx Mounjaro Pricing
https://www.goodrx.com/mounjaro - Lilly Cares Patient Assistance
https://www.lillycares.com/ - Mayo Clinic - Tirzepatide
https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tirzepatide-injection-route/description/drg-20508229
