TIRZEPATIDE (MONJARO®): INDISCRIMINATE USE AND INCREASING INCIDENCE OF PANCREATITIS

Abstract

Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro®, is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and increasingly used for weight loss, including off-label use. In recent years, there has been a growing trend of unsupervised use, often driven by social media and digital influencers, raising concerns regarding safety. Common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, and glycemic alterations, while more severe conditions such as acute pancreatitis have also been reported. This study aimed to review the risks associated with unsupervised use of tirzepatide, with a focus on pancreatic effects. A retrospective narrative review was conducted using PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases with standardized descriptors. Seven studies published between 2021 and 2025 were included. Findings suggest that although tirzepatide is effective for weight reduction and glycemic control, its use without medical supervision may increase the risk of significant adverse events. It is concluded that medical guidance, regulatory measures, and health education strategies are essential to reduce risks associated with indiscriminate use.