Should I switch to Mounjaro now that compounded tirzepatide is gone?

For many, compounded tirzepatide was a helpful step forward, making weight loss and blood sugar management more accessible. Now that it’s no longer available, you might be wondering where that leaves you, and whether Mounjaro could be the right next move.

If that uncertainty feels frustrating, especially if compounded tirzepatide was finally working for you, know that we understand and you’re not alone in this. At QuickMD, our licensed providers work with patients every day to help them navigate their weight loss and make informed decisions about GLP-1 treatments like Mounjaro. 

Whether you’re focused on weight loss, diabetes, or both, you deserve care that feels safe, personalized, and easy to understand. That’s why we’re here to help you explore your options so you can make confident decisions about what comes next.

In this article, we’ll discuss why compounded tirzepatide is leaving pharmacy shelves, how Mounjaro compares, and what other trusted treatments are still available. You’ll also learn who may benefit most from switching and how to take the next step, if it makes sense for you.

Not sure what’s right for you? A QuickMD provider can help you explore your options.

Why is compounded tirzepatide no longer available?

Compounded tirzepatide became widely used during shortages of brand-name medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound in 2022–2023. Because tirzepatide was listed as “in shortage,” compounding pharmacies could legally produce it (we’ll discuss this in more detail in the next section).

But things changed quickly:

• Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), increased supply, and the FDA declared the shortage over. 
• Compounding pharmacies can no longer legally make it in bulk.

Due to these changes, compounded tirzepatide is no longer legally available. If you’ve been affected by this change, our licensed providers can help you find a safe, legal alternative that fits your needs and goals.

FDA ruling and legal actions against compounded tirzepatide

In April 2024, the FDA officially removed tirzepatide from its drug shortage list after Eli Lilly significantly increased production. Under federal law (specifically Section 503B of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act), compounding pharmacies are only permitted to produce bulk versions of a drug if it is on the FDA’s shortage list.

Once the shortage status was lifted, compounding pharmacies could no longer legally produce tirzepatide in bulk, even if patients had previously relied on it.

In parallel, Eli Lilly filed lawsuits against several compounding pharmacies and related companies, citing concerns about the unauthorized use of its patents and trademarks. 

As a result, it’s really hard to find compounded tirzepatide now, leaving many patients looking for safe, reliable alternatives. For these patients, one of many questions is whether Mounjaro can offer a similar or better treatment experience.

How Mounjaro compares to compounded tirzepatide

On the surface, switching from compounded tirzepatide to Mounjaro might seem simple. It’s still tirzepatide, after all, right? Upon taking a closer look, you’ll find a few differences, but they have the same active ingredient, and a quick call with our providers will help you understand what’s right for you.

Consistency and quality

Both Mounjaro and compounded tirzepatide use the same active ingredient, tirzepatide, but they’re made in different ways.

Mounjaro is a brand-name medication from Eli Lilly that’s FDA-approved and manufactured under strict quality standards. Every dose is tested for potency and safety. With Mounjaro, you know exactly what you’re getting.

Compounded versions, however, vary slightly from pharmacy to pharmacy. The reason they vary is that compounded tirzepatide is made in small batches by specialized pharmacies. While many do excellent work, compounded versions don’t go through the same strict FDA approval process as brand-name medications, and each pharmacy that creates a compounded version may have differing practices, quality standards, or formulations.

The cost difference between compounded tirzepatide and Mounjaro

Compounding pharmacies often offered tirzepatide for $250 to $400 per month. Meanwhile, Mounjaro, at retail, can cost closer to $1,000 without insurance, sometimes even more, depending on the pharmacy. It’s a huge difference, and that’s exactly why many people turned to compounded versions in the first place. They were more accessible, more affordable, and for many, they worked.

Making the switch to Mounjaro after using compounded tirzepatide

Losing access to compounded tirzepatide may feel like another hurdle in a weight loss journey that’s already full of challenges. But it doesn’t mean the progress you’ve made has to stop. Safe, effective treatments are still available. You may just need to take a slightly different path.

For many, Mounjaro offers a natural next step with added consistency and support, especially for those who had great results with the compounded version. It can also be a good choice if you’re managing type 2 diabetes or a weight-related condition. It offers the consistency, safety, and clinical backing that brand-name medications are built on.

Before making any decision, it’s best to speak to a licensed provider. A QuickMD provider can help you decide what’s best for you, and at the end of the day, you’re the one in control of your health journey. You have real solutions to explore. You have real support. And you deserve care that fits your life, your health goals, and your budget.

Who might benefit from switching to Mounjaro?

Not everyone who used compounded tirzepatide will automatically be a good fit for Mounjaro. However, it’s the closest, safest next step for some, especially if they’ve had good results with the compounded version.

Let’s break down who might want to consider switching.

People with type 2 diabetes

The FDA has already approved Mounjaro to help manage blood sugar levels. In fact, that’s what it was originally designed for before doctors and patients realized just how effective it can be for weight loss, too.

If you were using compounded tirzepatide to manage diabetes and saw improvements, switching to the brand-name version is a logical next step. You’re essentially continuing the same treatment, just with more clinical oversight.

People living with obesity or weight-related health conditions

Even if you don’t have diabetes, you may still be eligible. Many doctors prescribe Mounjaro off-label for people with:

• A BMI of 30 or higher (classified as obesity), or
• A BMI of 27 or higher, along with other weight-related health issues like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea.

If you were taking compounded tirzepatide for weight loss, Mounjaro may be a suitable replacement under your provider’s guidance.

People who had success with compounded tirzepatide

If you were losing weight, feeling better, and tolerating compounded tirzepatide without major side effects, there’s a good chance Mounjaro could give you the same benefits, maybe even better.

Some patients even notice fewer side effects or more stable results with the brand-name version because of stricter quality controls in manufacturing.

Real patient experience: how Mounjaro changes food cravings

A patient shared how Mounjaro dramatically changed their relationship with food after a lifelong battle with binge eating and Class III obesity. They described their experience as follows:

Since starting Mounjaro, I have ZERO desire for constant snacking. I can look at something I would have once eaten without hesitation, like chocolate, and even though I could still have it, it’s just as easy to walk away. I went out for a cheat meal and could barely finish half a burger and fries. For the first time, I feel like I have a quiet, balanced relationship with food

In just three weeks, this patient lost over 14 pounds without experiencing side effects. But for them, the biggest change was the freedom from “food noise” they’d experienced.

Stories like this aren’t unusual. Many patients using Mounjaro describe feeling full, satisfied, and more in control around food. This feeling is a notable shift after years or even decades of struggling with cravings.

If you’ve been using compounded tirzepatide, switching to Mounjaro might be a great option for you.

Mounjaro side effects to be aware of

Even if you tolerated compounded tirzepatide pretty well, switching to Mounjaro might come with a brief adjustment period. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and mild stomach discomfort. Most side effects, though, are usually temporary and improve as your body adjusts.

As with any medication, staying in touch with your provider is important. They can help monitor your response and guide you through any adjustments. If you experience more severe symptoms or if side effects don’t improve, contact your provider. 

Sometimes, a different dosing schedule or even a different medication might be a better fit. If Mounjaro ends up not being the right option, don’t worry. You still have other alternatives to consider.

What are my options if Mounjaro isn’t a fit?

If Mounjaro doesn’t end up working for you, whether due to side effects, cost, or other reasons, you’re not out of options. We understand how frustrating it can be, especially after losing access to compounded tirzepatide. But the good news is that there are still safe, effective, and accessible treatments available.

Here at QuickMD, we offer a range of GLP-1 medications at significantly lower prices than many traditional pharmacies.

Here’s a quick look at what’s available:

Having options means you’re not stuck, and that’s important. Everyone’s body and circumstances are different, so if Mounjaro isn’t the right match, that doesn’t mean the end of your progress. With a range of trusted medications and personalized support, you can keep moving forward with confidence and clarity.

To help you do just that, we offer virtual consultations with licensed providers and transparent monthly pricing. No insurance or in-person appointments required. There are no contracts, no memberships, and no hidden fees, just straightforward, month-to-month access to treatment that fits your needs.

Frequently asked questions about switching to Mounjaro (FAQs)

Will insurance cover Mounjaro for weight loss?

It depends, and honestly, it can be tricky. Most insurance plans only cover Mounjaro if you have type 2 diabetes. If you wish to use it just for weight loss, you might have to jump through a few hoops, like prior authorizations, appeals, or even being asked to try other medications first. 

Every plan is a little different, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time or ask your healthcare provider to help you figure out the best path forward. If your insurance does cover it, you can meet with one of our QuickMD providers, and we’ll send your prescription directly to your pharmacy so you can then use your insurance to cover it.

If you’d rather skip the insurance headaches altogether, we offer Mounjaro at a straightforward monthly price, no prior authorizations needed. 

Why was tirzepatide in shortage?

Tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro (for type 2 diabetes), was in short supply throughout 2022 and 2023 due to surging demand and limited manufacturing capacity. As more patients began using GLP-1 medications for both blood sugar management and weight loss, demand quickly outpaced supply, especially after early clinical results showed significant weight loss benefits.

During that time, the FDA listed tirzepatide as “in shortage,” which allowed compounding pharmacies to legally produce it under federal law.

How can I save on Mounjaro?

Cost is one of the biggest barriers patients face when trying to stay on track with treatment, especially if insurance doesn’t cover Mounjaro for weight loss. But you don’t have to get stuck in a cycle of denials, delays, or sky-high pharmacy prices.

One way to skip the back-and-forth is through QuickMD, where Mounjaro is available for a flat $349 per month. This option can save you up to 66% on Mounjaro compared to the average retail price on GoodRx. This price includes your consultation, the medication, supplies, and shipping. No insurance or prior approvals needed. Compared to typical retail prices, which can run $1,000 or more per month, we offer one of the more affordable ways to access Mounjaro.

Want to stay informed as treatment options evolve? Visit our blog for the latest updates and expert insights.