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Tiredness and Mounjaro: Simple Steps To Manage Fatigue & Low Energy Levels
If you’re feeling more tired than usual while taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide), you’re not alone. Fatigue and low energy levels can sometimes occur as a side effect of this medication, leaving many people wondering if there’s a link between Mounjaro and tiredness. In this article, we’ll take a look at what’s commonly referred to as "Mounjaro tiredness," exploring why you might feel fatigued while using this medication and how long these effects might last. We’ll also share practical tips to help you manage your energy levels, identify when it’s time to speak to your doctor and discover the most effective ways to combat fatigue.
Key Takeaways
Here are the five biggest takeaways from this article about low energy levels and Mounjaro:
Tiredness, often referred to as "Mounjaro tiredness," is a potential side effect of taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide).
Fatigue while using Mounjaro can be caused by factors such as reduced caloric intake due to appetite suppression, gastrointestinal side effects, low blood sugar levels and the medication’s impact on the hypothalamus, which regulates sleep-wake cycles.
Tiredness usually lasts for a few days to a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication or an increased dose.
Strategies to combat tiredness include maintaining a nutrient-rich diet, staying hydrated, engaging in light exercise, getting adequate sleep and limiting caffeine and alcohol.
If tiredness lasts longer than a couple of weeks, significantly impacts daily life, or is accompanied by other symptoms like dizziness or signs of low blood sugar, you should speak to your doctor.
Is there a link between feeling tired and taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide)?
Yes, there can be a link between feeling tired and taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide). Mounjaro is primarily used to help people lose weight, and some people notice they feel fatigued as a side effect. This tiredness might be linked to how the medication works in the body, as it influences hormones, which can impact metabolism and energy.
Adjusting to changes in blood sugar levels or dietary habits while on Mounjaro could also contribute to feelings of fatigue. It’s important to remember that not everyone taking Mounjaro experiences this side effect, and the level of tiredness can vary from person to person.
What is Mounjaro tiredness?
Mounjaro Fatigue
Mounjaro tiredness refers to the feeling of fatigue or low energy that some people experience while using Mounjaro. This tiredness can be a direct side effect of the medication, or it may be a result of other side effects that impact your overall energy levels.
For example, nausea, digestive discomfort or other mild side effects could disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling more drained during the day. It’s also possible that changes in blood sugar levels or diet can cause feelings of exhaustion.
Why might you be feeling tired, fatigued and low on energy when you're taking Mounjaro injections?
Due to eating a reduced amount of calories
One reason you might feel tired while taking Mounjaro is that the medication can suppress your appetite, leading to a reduced calorie intake. While this can be beneficial for weight loss, consuming fewer calories than your body needs may leave you feeling fatigued or low on energy. Calories are the fuel your body relies on to perform daily activities, so when you eat less, your energy levels may naturally decrease.
Experiencing gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting and bloating
Mounjaro can sometimes cause gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, or bloating, which might leave you feeling more fatigued than usual. These symptoms can make it harder to eat properly or absorb the nutrients your body needs, leading to a lack of energy. Discomfort from these side effects may disrupt your sleep or make it difficult to rest properly.
Low blood sugar levels
Low blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycaemia, can also be a cause of fatigue for some people taking Mounjaro. This medication helps lower blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes. When your blood sugar drops, your body lacks the energy it needs to function optimally, leaving you feeling weak, fatigued or even lightheaded. If low blood sugar is a recurring issue, it’s important to monitor your levels and discuss this with your doctor.
Tirzepatide can impact your hypothalamus, which is responsible for regulating your sleep/wake cycle
Tirzepatide can have an impact on the hypothalamus, the part of the brain responsible for regulating your sleep/wake cycle, energy balance and metabolism. The medication works by modulating the balance of sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system activity, which can affect various bodily functions, including sleep [2].
Research suggests that tirzepatide can also alter certain genes in the hypothalamus. These changes can have a broader impact on the brain's overall function, potentially affecting your sleep patterns. If you're experiencing changes in your sleep quality or increased tiredness while on Mounjaro, it might be related to how the medication interacts with your hypothalamus [3].
How long will Mounjaro tiredness last?
Mounjaro tiredness is usually temporary and tends to last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. This typically occurs when you first start taking the medication or when your dose is increased as your body adjusts to the changes brought on by the medication. During this time, it’s common to experience tiredness as your body adapts.
If you find the fatigue persists for longer than a couple of weeks or becomes worse, it’s important to consult your doctor. They can help determine if the tiredness is related to the medication or if there may be another cause that needs to be addressed.
How to combat tiredness and fatigue caused by taking Mounjaro injections?
Maintain a healthy, balanced diet
Eating a nutrient-rich, balanced diet can help combat tiredness by providing your body with the fuel it needs to maintain energy levels. Focus on incorporating whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and plenty of fruits and vegetables into your meals.
Take multivitamins if needed
If you’re not getting all the essential nutrients from your diet and suspect a deficiency, consider taking a multivitamin to supplement your intake. Nutrient deficiencies, such as low iron or vitamin D, can contribute to fatigue.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration is a common cause of fatigue. Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated and functioning efficiently. Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages, as these can lead to energy crashes later.
Get regular exercise
Although it can be hard to exercise when you feel tired, even light physical activity can help improve your energy levels over time. Activities like walking, yoga, or gentle stretching can boost circulation and release endorphins.
Maintain a good sleep schedule
Prioritise getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night to allow your body time to recover. Sticking to a consistent sleep routine and creating a calming environment can improve the quality of your sleep.
Reduce screen time before bed
Cutting down on screen time close to bedtime can help you sleep better, as blue light from screens can interfere with your natural sleep-wake cycle. Try winding down with a book or relaxation techniques instead.
Limit caffeine intake
While caffeine might offer a temporary energy boost, consuming it too late in the day can disrupt your sleep, leaving you feeling more tired. Try to avoid caffeine after midday to help support restful sleep.
Avoid alcohol
Alcohol can disrupt your sleep patterns and leave you feeling groggy the next day. Cutting back or avoiding alcohol altogether can help you feel more rested and alert.
Get plenty of rest during the day
If you’re feeling particularly run down, listen to your body and rest when needed. Taking short breaks or naps can help recharge your energy, especially if you’re also dealing with other side effects from Mounjaro.
When should I speak to my doctor about low energy levels when I use Mounjaro?
You should speak to your doctor about low energy levels while using Mounjaro if fatigue lasts for more than a couple of weeks or if it significantly interferes with your daily life. While some tiredness is normal as your body adjusts to the medication, ongoing or severe fatigue could indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
You should contact your doctor if your tiredness is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or signs of low blood sugar (like shakiness or confusion). Your doctor can assess whether the fatigue is related to Mounjaro, another medical condition, or a nutrient deficiency.
Final Thoughts
While tiredness and low energy levels can be a side effect of taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide), there are practical steps you can take to manage these symptoms effectively. Understanding the potential causes, such as reduced calorie intake, gastrointestinal issues, low blood sugar, or changes in your sleep-wake cycle, is key to addressing fatigue. Simple lifestyle adjustments like maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly and prioritising quality sleep can make a significant difference.
If fatigue persists for more than a couple of weeks or becomes severe, it’s important to consult your doctor to rule out underlying issues and receive support. With the right approach, you can manage Mounjaro tiredness and maintain your energy levels while benefiting from the medication’s effects.
Sources
[1] PIL - Mounjaro KwikPen 2.5mg solution for injection in pre-filled pen - EMC
[2] Successful Treatment of Hypothalamic Obesity with Tirzepatide: A Case Report - ScienceDirect
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