Based on available data, most users do not experience significant adverse drug reactions. The primary adverse effects reported are gastrointestinal, but other side effects have also been infrequently reported. Decreased appetite is frequently reported, though this is a potential contributory etiology of intentional weight loss. Below are the adverse drug reactions reported by System Organ Class (SOC).[1]
Gastrointestinal: Many people report having lowered appetite. Up to 10% of patients may experience nausea and diarrhea, and there may also be sporadic reports of vomiting and acid reflux. Additionally, some individuals have reported having constipation.[1][2] Other oral drugs have a harder time being absorbed when stomach emptying is delayed. This is especially important for people who already have delayed stomach emptying because it can make their symptoms worse. It is significant to highlight that oral hormonal contraceptives no longer work as well as they once did, so patients should be urged to use non-oral contraceptive methods instead. [1][2]
Cardiovascular: If discovered, sinus tachycardia may be suppressed by taking other medications concurrently.[2]
Renal: Acute renal injury has been documented in rare cases, most likely as a result of dehydration from gastrointestinal losses. These can happen to both healthy people and those who already have chronic renal illness. It is probably best to keep an eye out for indicators of dehydration to avoid kidney damage.
Dermatologic: Rarely, reports of hypersensitivity reactions at the injection site have been made. The prevalence is not more than what patients who use GLP-1 agonists report. Such occurrences should be handled with a doctor, who may also recommend stopping the prescription.
Pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis is known to be a risk factor for GLP-1 drugs. Tirzepatide has a comparable level of risk as GLP-1 agonist drugs. If a patient receiving tirzepatide therapy experiences significant abdominal pain, they should be urged to visit their local emergency room for treatment. Some patients may also experience asymptomatic elevations of the enzymes lipase and amylase.[8]
Hepatobiliary: There have been reports of cholelithiasis and cholecystitis occurring in patients on tirzepatide therapy.[5]
Ocular: Patients with preexisting diabetic retinopathy should be advised that those symptoms may temporarily worsen if their glycemic control quickly improves. Any vision changes while using tirzepatide(GLP-1 receptor agonist) should be immediately discussed with a physician.[9]
Endocrine: There is a small risk of hypoglycemia and dose dependent. This risk is more significant for those on insulin therapy and/or those utilizing sulfonylureas. Patients should be advised on the potential symptoms of hypoglycemia.[10]