So... I decided to order the 7.5mg pen from IQ Doctor (the cheapest after 'Get a Drip').
Yesterday I completed their form and answered all the medical questions honestly, informing them that I had my gallbladder removed in 2013 and that I take medication for high blood pressure. This morning they asked me for proof of my current repeat medications, which I sent them.
Then at 5pm they've sent this message:
Upon reviewing your answers, I can see you have mentioned that you've had your gallbladder removed. I would like to take this opportunity to provide some information on the use of Mounjaro after gallbladder removal.
Patients who have had their gallbladders removed can often use Mounjaro, though there are some important factors to keep in mind to ensure safe and effective treatment:
Digestive Changes: Without a gallbladder, bile flows continuously from the liver directly into the small intestine, rather than being stored and released as needed. This can sometimes alter the way fats are digested and may increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal symptoms. Mounjaro may also cause digestive side effects, so it may be beneficial to start on a lower strength and continue on this strength for as long as possible before needing to increase.
Risk of Pancreatitis: While removing the gallbladder may reduce the risk of gallstone-related pancreatitis, Mounjaro itself has a rare but potential association with pancreatitis. It's important to be aware of symptoms like persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting and to seek medical attention if they occur.
Dietary Considerations: After gallbladder removal, many people find that a balanced, lower-fat diet helps manage digestive comfort. This approach can also support weight management, which complements the benefits of Mounjaro.
Hydration: Mounjaro can reduce appetite, which sometimes affects thirst as well. Staying hydrated is especially important to support healthy digestion and to avoid any risk of dehydration.
We recommend starting with a lower dose of Mounjaro and seeing how your body adjusts. It may be wise to continue with the lower strength while you are making progress.
All of that information is useful, but I've not any gastrointestinal symptoms since having my gallbladder out and I've obviously been eating high fat foods (a lot) since then.
So, I replied informing them of this and that I haven't had a single side effect since starting Mounjaro. I told them that I still wanted the 7.5mg and they should cancel the order if they wouldn't supply it and I will go to another provider.
It's not like I'm planning to take 7.5mg doses as I'm going to stick to 3.75mg - but I can't tell them that can I?
I had a feeling that switching providers wouldn't be so easy (for me), but this has still irritated me.
It's a good thing I started to look around early, because I want there to be a gap too big between each of my orders. Next week will be my 4th dose from the 5mg pen and I can still make 3 more doses of 3.75mg with the remainder in the 2nd 2.5mg pen I have. But I still need to get a pen from somewhere to maintain my 4 week ordering cycle.