Can Mounjaro cause gallstones?
While taking Mounjaro (tirzepatide), some people do experience gallstones and other gallbladder problems, so gallstones can occur as a side effect in a small number of patients. However, the underlying reason is thought to be driven mainly by rapid weight loss and reduced gallbladder emptying (bile stasis), rather than the medicine directly creating stones. If side effects such as nausea or vomiting reduce food and fluid intake, dehydration may also contribute by concentrating bile.
Key points:
- Gallstones and other gallbladder events have been reported in people using Mounjaro.
- The risk is most strongly linked to rapid weight loss and reduced gallbladder emptying, rather than a direct ingredient effect alone.
- Poor fluid intake/dehydration during gastrointestinal side effects may contribute in susceptible people.
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by Sorin Romaniuc, Pharmacist at medino.