Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) is a prescription medication indicated for managing blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
While Mounjaro is generally well-tolerated, like any medication, it carries potential side effects, which should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
One of the most common side effects of Mounjaro is diarrhea.
In this article, we’ll discuss how common diarrhea is while taking Moujaro, what causes it, how long the watery stools can last, and tips to help manage diarrhea symptoms.
How Common Is Diarrhea When Taking Mounjaro?
According to research, between 13-16% of people might experience diarrhea when taking Mounjaro.
While there might be other side effects that are more common (nausea and vomiting), it’s still somewhat likely you might experience loose bowel movements when taking this medication.
It’s important to note that the risk of side effects may vary with dosage; your healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance.
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Can Diarrhea from Tirzepatide Be Temporary?
Yes, diarrhea symptoms while taking Mounjaro should not last that long. However, if you experience several weeks of diarrhea when taking Tirzepatide, it’s best to talk to your doctor to determine if you need to change medications.
Remember that diarrhea can lead to dehydration, which can severely affect your overall health.
How Long Do Watery Stools Last With Mounjaro?
Since Mounjaro is an extended-release medication and Mounjaro stays in your system for around 25-30 days after your last dose, symptom relief may vary from person to person and might take several days or weeks to stop.
Keep in mind that this may depend on each person’s reaction to the medication. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized information.
5 Tips To Reduce Mounjaro Diarrhea
If you experience diarrhea from Mounjaro or want to decrease the risk of diarrhea, here are some tips that can help improve digestive function:
1) Add probiotics
Probiotics are good microorganisms that can help colonize the gut.
Research shows a good microbiome can help strengthen immune function and improve digestion.
High probiotic foods include fermented foods, such as:
- Kimchi
- Kefir
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
- Tempeh
You can also start taking a probiotic supplement. However, we recommend you consult with a doctor or dietician to learn what the best option is based on your needs.
2) Avoid fatty foods
High-fat foods can irritate the intestines and worsen diarrhea symptoms. If you are experiencing diarrhea, avoid:
- Fast foods
- Fried foods
- Highly processed foods (such as deli meats, sausages, and bacon).
3) Stay hydrated
If you have loose or watery poop, make sure you increase your water intake. If you don’t know how much water to drink, consult a health professional.
You can also drink at least half your body weight in ounces. For example, if you weigh 180 lbs, drink at least 90 ounces of water.
4) Avoid alcohol
Alcohol is a natural diuretic, meaning it can make the diarrhea symptoms worse. In addition, it’s best to avoid alcohol if you have diabetes since it can cause irregular blood sugar levels.
5) Sugar-free sweeteners
When you have high blood sugar levels, you want to replace all sugar sweeteners (honey, syrups, and sugar) with sugar-free sweeteners.
However, some sugar-free sweeteners, such as sugar alcohols, might draw more water to the intestines, increasing the risk of diarrhea.
If the symptoms are too persistent, consult with your doctor to learn if you should be taking a medication to help reduce symptoms of diarrhea or if you should switch to another diabetes medication to help manage your blood sugar levels.
Conclusion
Mounjaro is a widely used prescription medication in the management of type 2 diabetes.
It is administered through a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, which you usually inject only once a week.
Some of the most common side effects of Tirzepatide include nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, upset stomach, constipation, and diarrhea. Around 13-16% of people might experience diarrhea.
If this happens, avoid fatty foods, sugar, sweeteners, and alcohol. Instead, opt for a fresh diet, low in sugars and with adequate water intake.
If the symptoms persist, talk to your doctor to determine if you should take a medication to stop the symptoms or replace the anti-diabetic medication.
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