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Tirzepatide and Headaches: What Users Say

Brand names: Mounjaro, Zepbound

Headaches: mentioned by 54 users (2.9%)

Based on user experiences from 1,866 Tirzepatide reviews, the following table shows the most commonly mentioned side effects.

All user comments are moderated by Drugs.com. Each review is verified for relevance and screened for inappropriate content. Side effects are user-reported and not clinically verified.

nausea 18.0%
constipation 12.8%
diarrhea 7.7%
burping 4.6%
vomiting 4.4%
loss of appetite 4.2%
upset stomach 4.1%
fatigue 3.8%
tiredness 3.5%
headaches 2.9%

Reviews for Tirzepatide

Commonly mentioned side effects
  • Pam...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • April 11, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "This medication was a life changer for me. I’m a 49-year-old female. I never had a problem with my weight until after the age of 45. Then during Covid, I gained 30 pounds and got up to 189. I was exercising regularly and trying to eat healthy, but could not lose any weight. I started Mounjaro and lost 12 pounds the first month. I had very little side effects. The only thing I experienced was fatigue, a slight headache, and I felt very cold. Once I became used to the medication, after a couple of months, those side effects diminished. I’ve been on the medication for 6 months and have lost a total of 56 pounds. I’m now at 133 pounds. My goal weight is 130. I feel better than I did when I was in my 20s and 30s. This medication was life-changing for me. It not only helped me to lose weight, but it also lowered my A1C, lowered my triglycerides, and blood pressure."

10 / 10
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  • TGM...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 1, 2023

"Was prescribed 2.5, 8 weeks ago, for weight loss. Had never heard of this drug. No issue giving the injection. I was excited to be taking this after research. Have lost a total of 43 lbs and dropped several sizes. This drug has been a miracle for me. I’ve struggled with weight for my entire life and have gained/lost 80+ many times. Never have I had anything to take away my desire to eat like this. Food tastes totally different. Even morning coffee doesn’t taste good anymore. I am thrilled with the results. Sometimes I do have a slight headache and constipation was terrible the 1st week but subsided. In 3 days, I start on the 5 dosage. For me, a slight headache is worth the weight I’ve lost and the lack of hip pain now that I’ve lost the weight. I’ve gone from a size 24 to a 16. I am a 60-year-old female, 5’2”, current weight 198 - want to lose another 35-40 and will be content for my age. I feel happy and healthy! I take a multivitamin every day. Had lab work on 12/06/22 - perfect!"

10 / 10
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307 Report
  • Fem...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 1, 2022

"Lost 5 lbs in one week. First 2 days after injection, I am spacey & can't think clearly; just feel a little odd mentally. Also, EXTREMELY tired/run-down feeling. Otherwise, mild headache & constipation the rest of the week. Overall, would say it's worth it as I no longer binge or even eat much. Never in my life did I think I could stop obsessing over food and dieting. Maybe one day this drug could be reverse-engineered for anorexia or bulimia. Definitely took care of that awful desire and craving to eat all day and night."

8 / 10
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313 Report

Frequently asked questions

  • Nop...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 15, 2022

For Type 2 Diabetes "Holy side effects. First, if you eat when you take it, it just sits in your stomach and you’ll be burping it for 12 hours. The headache is insane. Starts immediately. Then you are hit with 3 days of nausea, fatigue, and just overall fatigue. Just when you start to feel better, cue the insane heartburn! It took me 5 days to feel normal again. I’ll pass on this even though I lost 5 pounds the first week."

2 / 10
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  • Mil...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • December 1, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Zepbound in April 2024 at 193 lbs. It’s December 2024, I’m now 140 lbs. I have stayed at the 10 mg dose for almost 3 months now, as I am trying to tone my body since I lost 50 lbs fast. The side effects suck when I go up a dose, but my body adjusts after 4 weeks, so it’s been great. I have noticed that I wake up with hunger pains now, but my plan is to get used to them again before I start weaning off the drug. Side effects for me include headaches and fatigue. It’s not that bad after a while, the main thing is being strategic and proactive about getting your fiber, protein, and water in. I haven’t been to the gym since I started the 10 mg, and I’ve slowed down on the weight loss (which I’m okay with). I like 140, I’m just trying to tone now, so when I wean off, it won’t all come back. I’ll update you guys in a couple of months."

10 / 10
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  • ROZ...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 14, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been on Mounjaro for 7 weeks now and have lost 1 and a half stone. I was always tired, and my feet and back were killing me due to being overweight. Since taking this drug, I have only experienced feeling cold and the odd headache here and there. The positive side to taking Mounjaro is I no longer have menopausal hot sweats at night and can jog up my stairs without breathlessness, constant food cravings are gone, and I feel genuinely happier. I drink plenty of water as recommended, as this seems to help with weight loss. Overall, Mounjaro has changed my life for the better."

10 / 10
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26 Report
  • yan...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • April 4, 2025

For Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Syndrome "I take my second 2.5 mg Zepbound tomorrow. I am so impressed so far with this med. I am in my 60s and have tried dieting with initial success and then rebound. I swim and use an elliptical, which makes me feel good but has not helped me lose weight. This is a different experience. Like others say, it turns off the craving 'noise', you feel full all the time, and food is no longer the enemy. I have been eating fruits and veggies, chicken, beef, and eggs. Cottage cheese tastes great for the first time and is a great small meal. I drink water with sliced lemons, which tastes great and is satisfying. I have never been much of a water drinker, but now that is all I want other than tea and coffee. I have probably lost about 2 lbs so far as my always bloated belly is flattening, though I have a long way to go. I have had a few mild headaches and vomited on night three, otherwise, no side effects. I'm all in!"

10 / 10
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More FAQ

  • SIM...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • June 12, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been on Mounjaro for 3 weeks (2.5 mg injection), and it has helped me tremendously. I started out at 333 lbs. Now I weigh 319 lbs. I feel full for longer. Just feel tired a lot, but I take vitamins and something for energy, so that has helped. I take stool softeners so I won't get constipated. I had a slight headache for a couple of days when I first started, but not bad. I don't crave snacks, caffeine, or sweets like I used to on a daily basis. If I even overeat a little, I feel miserable, so I have to watch that. Managing your portions is very important. I'm doing better with that now. It doesn't take much for me to eat and drink to be satisfied. My BP has been good. My doctor said I may be able to get off BP meds soon. I am so grateful for this new med. Can't wait to move up to the next dosage."

10 / 10
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35 Report
  • Anonymous
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 16, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "My side effects are constipation, headaches, vision is foggy, insomnia, stomach pain, nervousness, dehydration, frequent urination, bumps on my labia. It is very easy to use. I have lost 14 pounds in two months. It does cut your hunger."

6 / 10
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  • Arm...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • August 19, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am an active-duty Army soldier. I have multiple physical problems after a long military career. I am pleased to learn that the Army now pays 100% for Zepbound. The max dosage they will provide, though, is 5%. But still, free is free. There is a huge benefit to being in the military that I did not know existed. It has helped me lose 20 pounds so far. The only negative side effects I have had are LOTS of trips to the bathroom daily and headaches when I first started to take it. Twice I showed purple bruising at the injection site. I have to drink LOTS of water daily and increase my protein intake. Good-tasting protein shakes help meet that goal."

10 / 10
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  • MJC...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • March 4, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Been on Mounjaro since 9/11/22. Today is 3/4/23. I have lost close to 60 lbs and went from a pant size 46 down to 40. My wife says I “lost my tire” looking at me from behind. Started at 2.5 dose. Was dizzy and unsteady in the early days. Headache and nausea till my body acclimated. Switched my shot day to Friday night so if I’m not feeling great, it’s the weekend and not impacting work. Worked up to 5.0 then 7.5. Did each for 8 weeks instead of 4 to level off the side effects. Wanted to stay at that level, but no one can get it. Took my first 10.0 shot last night. So far so good. All my levels are great. Sulfur burps if I overeat. Am also doing Herbalife shakes 2 times a day and having a sensible dinner. I still snack after dinner, but nothing crazy. Exercise 5/6 times per week. I think 7.5 should be my maintenance dose, but again, no one can get it. Will trade the mild side effects for being able to fit into my clothes."

10 / 10
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30 Report
  • Per...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • September 17, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Zepbound was life-changing. After 4 months, I am down 67 lbs. The food noise is gone, and my life doesn't revolve around food anymore. I do not use food to self-medicate. I use food to live for the first time. After regaining weight 25 years after a gastric bypass, this changed my life. I had some minor headaches but really no other side effects except weight loss!"

10 / 10
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11 Report
  • Rom...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • December 3, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "56 yr female, 257 lbs (20 years post gastric bypass). Started Zepbound 11/3 2.5 mg. Lost 12 lbs in the first 4 weeks. Minimal side effects until week 3-4. Felt dizzy, headaches, lethargic though likely due to not enough calories. 1st 5 mg dose yesterday and feel great so far. Absolutely no food noise or cravings since the 1st shot. No issues at all with the injection site or pain. Will stay at 5 mg as long as I can before increasing. This medication has been a life changer for me. I was hesitant due to reported side effects as I researched for over a year before I decided to move forward. My insurance denied, I appealed and got the decision overturned. Meds currently covered at 100%, thankfully. I am exercising though I have always walked. I am not a big eater to start with, the difference is I no longer crave foods. I eat because I have to, so I make better food choices. Looking forward to continuing on the path I am currently on."

10 / 10
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  • Eli...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 3, 2023

For Type 2 Diabetes "I have been on Mounjaro for 9 weeks. I had to jump from 5 to 10 mg last week due to shortage issues. I am having several problems with severe bloating, constipation, headache, and stomach pain. I have severe gas that keeps me up most of the night and can be a sign of impending intermittent diarrhea at times. I am always full and started pushing myself to eat as I can go all day with nothing. Now I have small welts and itching at injection sites. Total weight loss: “0.” My blood sugar is higher, especially in the morning. This drug is horrible, and I won’t put my body through it anymore. I can lose weight easier and healthier than this since it ruined my Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve. I was so excited to try it and had hope. I’m thankful for all those who are benefiting from it. Good luck to all. It just wasn’t for me."

1 / 10
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32 Report
  • Lin...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 10, 2024

For Type 2 Diabetes "I’ve been taking 2.5 ml for 4 weeks and had few side effects apart from zero appetite, a little nausea, and a migraine (think the migraine was due to not eating). Now, week 5, increased to 5 ml and a different story: quite a lot of nausea, diarrhea, headache, and tiredness. Also again, total lack of appetite. Fortunately, these side effects more or less calmed down 2 or 3 days after taking the dose. I’m hoping it’s a temporary thing when you take a new dose - I can live with that."

9 / 10
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  • Isa...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • September 21, 2022

"Took my first dose of 2.5 on 09/20, tried it on my stomach. Injection was not bad; I did start with a massive headache last night. My stats: 43 yo, female, 254 lb, 5'5" and goal is to lose 100 lbs; although for now, I will be happy to lose 25 to end the year."

7 / 10
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20 Report
  • Duc...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 16, 2022

For Type 2 Diabetes "I was using Ozempic, but Dr. switched to Mounjaro. It has been terrible! I lost a lot of weight on Ozempic but gained some back since being on Mounjaro. Also, my blood sugar rose 10-15 points since switching! I have had numerous side effects, mainly headaches and constipation. When giving it, it always seems to leak back out of my skin, and I've tried stomach, arms, thighs- all the same! I am not happy."

1 / 10
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17 Report
  • BMC...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • October 3, 2022

For Type 2 Diabetes "I'm only on my second week, but I've lost 7 pounds so far. It forces me to eat because if I don't, I feel sick, but when I eat, I get full super fast. So it's like it's forcing me to do good and not starve myself. I really like that. The first week I had slight nausea here and there and a couple of headaches. Also, a little indigestion. I do feel pretty tired. I've been eating a low-carb diet. I'm going to incorporate exercise at the end of this week. I can only imagine how much I have the potential to lose once I start exercising if I've lost 7 just by eating better. Overall, I am satisfied with this drug. I'm on the low dose right now."

9 / 10
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18 Report
  • Kni...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 23, 2023

"50-year-old male, 6'1'. Had gastric sleeve surgery in June of 2019. By March of 2020, I had gone from my all-time high of 341 lbs down to 238 lbs. Went back up to 274 lbs by August of '22. I went on Mounjaro to lose weight. I have increased dosage from 2.5 mg to 5 mg to 7.5 mg to currently now 10 mg. Results: I have gone from 274 lbs to 227 lbs (as of yesterday). So, almost 50 lbs in just under 6 months. Ease of use: 1x a week epi-pen-like injection. Comes with 1-month supply (4 pens). Keep refrigerated. Pain from injection: non-existent. The first time I used the pen, I thought I did it wrong as I felt no pain. Side effects: none. The most I can say is that I only have to do a number two only 1 to 2 times a week now. Not constipated, just don't have the food in me where I need to go. I've read some people's experiences regarding side effects, headaches, rashes, etc... and fortunately I have had none."

10 / 10
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  • jef...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 21, 2025

For Type 2 Diabetes "The first week I didn't see much. The second week, blood sugar was a little better. I didn't take it the second or third due to acute leg and feet swelling, which has never been a problem. Took many tests for artery blockage, every test my doctor could come up with. The swelling left as quick as it appeared. I got started back on Mounjaro, it started working with remarkable performance, with blood sugar at around 6.7 from the high 11s, but having a very upset stomach. Following week, very sick at stomach, headaches, I felt a lot worse. I may have caught a flu that has been going around. I normally do not have the flu. I don't know if it was the Mounjaro or flu, the symptoms were the same and did not have a fever. I am due to take the Mounjaro injection tomorrow. Haven't decided what to do yet."

9 / 10
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  • Suf...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • December 31, 2022

For Type 2 Diabetes "My dose at 2.5 mg was tolerable. Minimal side effects. 5 mg more side effects with nausea, sour stomach, gas. 7.5 mg has been a disaster. Heartburn. Headaches, lethargy, tiredness, no appetite, and need to force food on myself. Low blood sugar on CGM Libre2. I can't eat enough to get myself back to 90. I keep pegging 70 because I can't eat and am sick to my stomach all the time. My sleep is interrupted, and I must lie down constantly. I feel like I want to sleep all the time. Weight has dropped from 250 to 233 lbs, but if I can't get out of bed, what's the point? I will talk to my doc about going back to 2.5 mg for the A1C control, but this drug needs work."

2 / 10
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13 Report
  • Ala...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • August 19, 2023

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started with 2 1/2, went up to five, and then now I am at 10. I lost a few pounds a week, although my appetite is much less than usual. The side effects have been very minimal, mostly headache, sore throat, and hoarseness seems to linger, never really goes. Constipation can be an issue at times, that only for myself, but other people I know on the same drug. My PA is working very closely with her and paying attention to absolutely everything closely. I feel that it’s a safe drug so far if you have a doctor or PA that is on board with you and to a full degree of attention. My hope is that once my A1c is in order, I will be able to discontinue the drug completely, although some studies recommend that not to be probable, again, working closely with my doctor and care team. Thank you for your time."

10 / 10
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9 Report
  • bel...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • May 11, 2023

For Type 2 Diabetes "A little bit of back story for the full benefit of transparency… I am a type 2 diabetic on an insulin pump, taking 2 Synjardy every morning in addition to my once-a-week injection. I was completely insulin resistant. Since starting the Mounjaro in September 2022 on the lowest dose, I have worked my way up to 10 mg. Now, a supply shortage kept me from getting my one-month supply twice in the last 7 months. When starting again, it did give me nausea and headaches, my doctor prescribed Zofran, and I took ibuprofen. When I started, I weighed 330 pounds and am currently down to 289 as of yesterday. The biggest benefit to me is that my pump has had to work less because the Mounjaro keeps my blood sugar steady at about 90. I am hoping as I continue to lose weight, I need less and less insulin, that is the doctor's goal. So while yes, there are side effects initially, they did not hang around for me, and if you can push through them, they do subside. I am 48 years old and have been diabetic since I was 23."

10 / 10
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10 Report
  • A1w...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • October 14, 2024

For Type 2 Diabetes "I went vegan in 1/23. I previously removed or reduced sugar, gluten, and carbs. Over 9 months, my glucose level fell slightly, and I lost 20 lbs. I had no progress for 4 months. In Jan. of 24, I started Mounjaro. Today, my A1c is 5.1, and I lost another 44 lbs. I've had minor nausea as I started 10 and get a headache for a day or two after I inject. I've experienced a great deal of hair loss even though I try to maintain 90 mg protein daily. Contraindications say a small percentage of users have this side effect and usually not to such a high degree. I believe everyone prescribed this drug could decrease many side effects with minimal nutritional counseling. I'm happy that I've gotten my A1c in line, and additional weight loss was a great side effect for me. I'm concerned about what happens when I stop using it because the effect of not feeling hungry and food not tasting great seems to be the biggest help for me. I feel great and have more energy. I eat very thoughtfully. Wish I could have done this years ago."

10 / 10
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4 Report
  • Hon...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • October 6, 2022

"I have been taking Mounjaro for 7 weeks. 4 weeks of that I was on the 2.5 mg dose and lost 15 lbs by the 4th week. The last 3 weeks I've been on the 5 mg and I've lost ZERO lbs. Seems kind of useless to take when you have all the side effects (constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, nausea, headache, severe fatigue) for 3 weeks straight with no weight loss. I am considering going off this medication, I think it was all just hype. I've also stopped having periods. 40 years old, SW 199, CW 185, GW 140. Also following website food/calories recommendations. I have no other disease, just obesity."

4 / 10
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12 Report

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Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.