Comprehensive educational information about Mounjaro (tirzepatide), its regulatory status in Nigeria, and what options are available for those seeking weight management solutions.
Important Notice
This is an educational website. We do not sell, supply, or distribute Mounjaro or any medications. Mounjaro is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.
An evidence-based overview of tirzepatide and how it works
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a first-in-class medication that acts as a dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. This dual mechanism makes it unique among weight loss medications.
Manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company, it was initially developed for type 2 diabetes management but showed remarkable weight loss results in clinical trials, leading to its approval for chronic weight management in several countries.
The SURMOUNT trial program studied tirzepatide's efficacy for weight management:
Source: Jastreboff AM, et al. N Engl J Med. 2022;387(3):205-216
Eli Lilly and Company is an American pharmaceutical company headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. Founded in 1876, it is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world and the developer of Mounjaro.
What you need to know about Mounjaro's legal status
As of January 2026, Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has not been registered or approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for sale or distribution in Nigeria.
This means that Mounjaro cannot be legally purchased, sold, or imported for commercial purposes in Nigeria. Any claims of selling "authentic Mounjaro" in Nigeria should be viewed with extreme caution.
NAFDAC is the Nigerian regulatory body responsible for:
Mounjaro is FDA-approved in the United States (2022) and EMA-approved in the European Union (2023) for type 2 diabetes. Zepbound, the weight loss formulation of tirzepatide, was FDA-approved in November 2023. Approval status varies by country, and Nigeria has not yet approved this medication.
The molecule behind Mounjaro's effectiveness
Tirzepatide is a synthetic peptide that mimics two natural hormones: GIP and GLP-1. It's administered via weekly subcutaneous injection and comes in various dosage strengths (2.5mg to 15mg).
Unlike single-action GLP-1 agonists (like semaglutide in Ozempic), tirzepatide targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors. This dual action may explain its superior weight loss results in clinical trials.
Tirzepatide is injected once weekly, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Treatment starts at a low dose (2.5mg) and gradually increases to minimize side effects.
Due to supply shortages and high costs of brand-name medications, some compounding pharmacies produce tirzepatide using the same active ingredient. These compounded versions:
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Before starting any weight management medication, consult with a licensed healthcare provider. GLP-1 medications have potential side effects and contraindications that must be evaluated by a medical professional.
Answers to common questions about Mounjaro in Nigeria
Mounjaro (tirzepatide): A dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist made by Eli Lilly. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 20-25%.
Ozempic (semaglutide): A GLP-1 receptor agonist only, made by Novo Nordisk. Clinical trials show average weight loss of 15-18%.
The dual mechanism of tirzepatide appears to provide greater weight loss efficacy in clinical studies.
Common side effects include:
Serious side effects (rare): pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney issues, allergic reactions. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
Tirzepatide is contraindicated for:
A thorough medical evaluation is required before starting treatment.