Starting a new treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when it involves giving yourself an injection. If you’ve recently been prescribed Mounjaro (tirzepatide) for weight loss or type 2 diabetes, you might be wondering exactly how to use it safely and correctly.
At Eltham Pharmacy, we’re here to guide you through every step. This simple and practical blog post is designed to help you feel confident about how to inject Mounjaro for the first time, with advice on preparation, injection technique, and safe disposal.
What Is Mounjaro?
Mounjaro is a once-weekly injectable medication containing tirzepatide, a dual-acting GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist. It helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduce appetite, making it suitable for people with type 2 diabetes and those on a private weight loss programme.
It comes in a pre-filled, single-use pen that is easy to self-administer at home.
Step 1: Choose Your Injection Day
Mounjaro is injected once a week, on the same day each week. You can take it with or without food, but it’s important to stick to your chosen schedule.
Tip: Set a reminder on your phone or calendar to help you stay consistent.
Step 2: Store and Prepare the Pen
Mounjaro should be stored in the fridge between 2°C and 8°C, but take it out around 30 minutes before injecting to let it reach room temperature. This helps reduce discomfort.
-
–> Do not freeze the pen
-
–> Do not use it if it has been frozen or left out of the fridge for too long
-
–> Check the expiry date and make sure the solution is clear and colourless
Step 3: Wash Your Hands and Choose an Injection Site
Always wash your hands thoroughly before injecting.
You can inject Mounjaro into the:
-
–> Thigh
-
–> Stomach (abdomen) at least 5 cm away from the belly button
-
–> Back of the upper arm, if someone else is administering it
Rotate your injection site each week to avoid irritation. Never inject into skin that is bruised, red, hard, or broken.
Step 4: Inspect the Pen
Before using the pen, take a moment to check:
-
–> The label to ensure it’s the correct dose
-
–> The medicine inside the window (it should be clear and free from particles)
-
–> The cap is secure and hasn’t been tampered with
Do not use the pen if it looks damaged or if anything seems unusual.
Step 5: Inject the Pen
Here’s how to inject Mounjaro step-by-step:
-
Pull off the grey base cap, do not twist it. Once removed, do not put it back on.
-
Place the clear base flat and firmly against your chosen injection site.
-
Unlock the pen by turning the lock ring (if applicable) to the unlock position.
-
Press and hold the injection button. You’ll hear a click; this means the injection has started.
-
Keep holding the pen firmly in place until you hear a second click (around 10 seconds), which means the injection is complete.
-
Remove the pen from your skin and discard it safely in a sharps bin.
You’re done!
Step 6: Dispose of the Pen Safely
Used Mounjaro pens should be placed in a yellow sharps disposal bin, not in household waste or recycling. If you don’t already have one, we can supply it at Eltham Pharmacy.
When full, return your sharps bin to a pharmacy or local collection point as directed.
What to Expect After the Injection
Most people tolerate Mounjaro well, but mild side effects like nausea, constipation, tiredness, or loss of appetite are common during the first few weeks. These often improve as your body adjusts.
You should:
-
–> Stay well-hydrated
-
–> Eat smaller meals if you feel full quickly
-
–> Contact us if side effects become persistent or severe
Never increase your dose unless instructed by your prescriber.
Need Help? We’re Here for You
If you’re unsure about how to inject Mounjaro or have any questions about your weight loss treatment, our friendly team at Eltham Pharmacy is here to help. We can show you how to use the pen in person, offer guidance on side effect management, and support your broader weight loss goals with professional advice.
Starting a new injectable medication might feel daunting at first, but with the right instructions and support, it quickly becomes routine.
Contact us today to learn more about Mounjaro, arrange a demonstration, or book your private weight loss consultation.
This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.
