Mounjaro and Blood Tests: What Monitoring Do You Need?

If you're starting Mounjaro, you may wonder what blood tests are needed before and during treatment. Here's what monitoring typically involves and why it matters.

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Are Blood Tests Required Before Starting?

While there's no absolute requirement for blood tests before starting Mounjaro, most prescribers will recommend baseline testing. This helps:

• Identify any underlying conditions that might affect treatment
• Establish baseline values to compare against later
• Screen for contraindications
• Personalise your treatment plan

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Common Baseline Tests

HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)

Measures your average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. Important for:

• Identifying undiagnosed prediabetes or diabetes
• Tracking improvement if you have diabetes

Fasting Glucose

Your blood sugar level after not eating for 8-12 hours. Another diabetes screening tool.

Lipid Panel

Measures cholesterol and triglycerides. Weight loss often improves these markers, so baseline levels help track progress.

Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

Checks liver health. Important because fatty liver disease is common in people with obesity and often improves with weight loss.

Kidney Function (eGFR, Creatinine)

Assesses kidney health. Relevant because dehydration from GI side effects can affect kidneys.

Thyroid Function (TSH)

Screens for thyroid disorders, which can affect weight and metabolism. Also relevant given the thyroid-related warnings with GLP-1 medications.

Full Blood Count

General health screen that can identify anaemia or other issues.

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Tests That May Be Added

Depending on your situation, your doctor might also check:

• Iron studies: If you have symptoms of iron deficiency
• Vitamin D: Often low in people with obesity
• Vitamin B12: Especially if you have diabetes or take metformin

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Monitoring During Treatment

Ongoing blood tests may be recommended:

• Every 3-6 months: HbA1c, lipids, liver function (especially in the first year)
• If symptoms arise: Kidney function if you experience dehydration; other tests as clinically indicated

The exact frequency depends on your health conditions and how you're responding to treatment.

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Special Considerations for Diabetes

If you have type 2 diabetes, monitoring is more intensive:

• More frequent blood sugar checks (especially if on insulin or sulfonylureas)
• HbA1c every 3 months initially
• Possible medication adjustments to prevent hypoglycaemia

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Where to Get Blood Tests in NZ

Your doctor can provide a laboratory form for tests at:

• Community laboratories (Labtests, Medlab, etc.)
• Hospital laboratories
• Some GP clinics with on-site collection

Costs vary. Some tests may be funded; others may have a charge. Ask your doctor what to expect.

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Tracking Your Progress

Beyond weight loss, blood tests help you see the metabolic benefits of treatment:

• Improved HbA1c and blood sugar control
• Better cholesterol levels
• Improved liver function markers

These improvements are often motivating, even during weight loss plateaus.

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At Well Revolution

Our care team can advise on appropriate testing and help you interpret results. We take a comprehensive approach to monitoring your health throughout treatment.