Can Type 1 Diabetics Take Mounjaro for Weight and Blood Sugar Management?

Introduction

Living with type 1 diabetes is a profound journey, characterized by the daily, meticulous balancing act of insulin, diet, and activity to maintain stable blood sugar levels. For many, this complex management is further complicated by the presence of excess weight or obesity, which can exacerbate insulin resistance and heighten the risk of long-term complications. The medical landscape is constantly evolving, and recent years have seen remarkable advancements in medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes and weight management. Among these, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), a GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, has captured significant attention for its powerful effects on blood sugar control and weight reduction in individuals with type 2 diabetes. This naturally leads to a critical question for the type 1 diabetes community: can type 1 diabetics take Mounjaro, and what does its potential role look like?

This blog post delves into the intricate discussion surrounding Mounjaro’s use for those with type 1 diabetes. We will explore the nuanced scientific considerations, including how Mounjaro’s mechanisms might offer benefits, as well as the very real and serious risks that necessitate extreme caution and vigilant medical supervision. Our purpose is to provide a comprehensive, balanced perspective, drawing on current research and expert insights to illuminate both the promise and the perils. For anyone navigating the complexities of type 1 diabetes and considering adjunctive therapies, understanding these elements is crucial. We will outline the unique challenges type 1 diabetics face, detail Mounjaro’s specific actions, analyze preliminary research findings, and underscore the absolute necessity of personalized, expert medical guidance—a cornerstone of our philosophy at TrimRx. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of why this medication, despite its potential, remains a topic of intense discussion and careful consideration within the medical community.

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes and Weight Management

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. This means individuals with type 1 diabetes produce little to no insulin, a hormone essential for glucose to enter cells for energy. Without insulin, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to hyperglycemia and a cascade of health issues. Managing this condition requires lifelong insulin therapy, often through multiple daily injections or an insulin pump, alongside careful monitoring of blood glucose levels.

The Unique Challenges for Type 1 Diabetics

The journey of living with type 1 diabetes is marked by unique challenges that extend beyond mere glucose control. One significant hurdle is the constant risk of both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be life-threatening if not managed promptly. Fear of hypoglycemia often leads individuals to consume extra carbohydrates, contributing to weight gain. Moreover, the need for exogenous insulin can also promote weight gain, as insulin is an anabolic hormone that encourages fat storage.

Beyond these physiological factors, the psychological burden of managing a chronic condition, coupled with societal pressures and lifestyle factors, can also contribute to weight challenges. The constant vigilance required for type 1 diabetes management can be emotionally exhausting, and finding the energy and motivation to incorporate consistent physical activity and dietary modifications can be difficult for some. These interwoven factors create a complex scenario where weight management becomes an additional, critical layer of care, intertwined with overall diabetes health.

The Role of Weight Management in Type 1 Diabetes

While type 1 diabetes is not typically associated with obesity in the same way type 2 diabetes often is, a significant number of individuals with type 1 diabetes do struggle with overweight or obesity. Research indicates that the prevalence of overweight and obesity among people with type 1 diabetes is similar to that of the general population, and in some studies, even higher. This creates a double burden: managing an autoimmune condition that requires insulin, while also contending with the added health risks associated with excess weight.

Weight management in type 1 diabetes is vital for several reasons. Obesity can lead to increased insulin resistance, meaning the body’s cells don’t respond as effectively to insulin. For someone who already needs to inject insulin, this means requiring even higher doses to achieve glucose control, which can further perpetuate a cycle of weight gain. High insulin doses are also associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Beyond insulin resistance, excess weight in type 1 diabetes is linked to a higher incidence of other comorbidities, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and obstructive sleep apnea. It also contributes to an increased risk of long-term diabetes complications such as heart disease, kidney issues, and nerve damage. Therefore, effective weight management is not just about aesthetics; it’s a crucial component of improving overall metabolic health, reducing complication risks, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Mounjaro: A GIP/GLP-1 Receptor Agonist

Mounjaro, scientifically known as tirzepatide, represents a groundbreaking advancement in metabolic medicine. It is a unique medication because it acts as a dual agonist, targeting two key incretin hormones: glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors. This dual action sets it apart from traditional GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®), which primarily target only GLP-1 receptors.

How Mounjaro Works

The GIP and GLP-1 hormones are naturally produced in the gut and play crucial roles in regulating blood glucose levels, particularly after meals. When food is consumed, these hormones are released, triggering several beneficial physiological responses:

• Glucose-Dependent Insulin Secretion: Both GIP and GLP-1 stimulate the pancreas to release insulin, but only when blood glucose levels are elevated. This glucose-dependent mechanism helps prevent hypoglycemia, as insulin secretion decreases as blood sugar falls.
• Reduced Glucagon Secretion: They also suppress the release of glucagon, another hormone produced by the pancreas that raises blood sugar by signaling the liver to produce more glucose. By reducing glucagon, Mounjaro helps to lower hepatic (liver) glucose production.
• Slowed Gastric Emptying: GLP-1 agonists slow down the rate at which food leaves the stomach. This leads to a prolonged feeling of fullness, which can reduce overall food intake, and helps to flatten post-meal blood sugar spikes.
• Appetite Regulation and Satiety: Beyond slowing digestion, these hormones act on the brain to reduce appetite and increase feelings of satiety, making it easier for individuals to consume fewer calories and achieve weight loss.

By leveraging these dual pathways, Mounjaro offers a more comprehensive approach to metabolic regulation. Its GIP component may contribute to additional benefits in glucose control and weight loss beyond what GLP-1 alone can achieve. This sophisticated mechanism is why Mounjaro has shown such impressive results in improving blood sugar control and promoting significant weight loss in clinical trials for its approved indications.

FDA Approval Status and Off-Label Use

It is essential to clarify Mounjaro’s regulatory status. Mounjaro is currently FDA-approved solely for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes, used as an adjunct to diet and exercise. This approval is based on extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in this specific population.

For individuals with type 1 diabetes, Mounjaro has not received FDA approval. The clinical trials leading to its approval did not include participants with type 1 diabetes, and therefore, its safety and effectiveness have not been formally established for this group through the rigorous process required for FDA endorsement. This also applies to other similar medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy®.

Despite this, the off-label use of Mounjaro and other GLP-1 agonists in type 1 diabetes is becoming more common. “Off-label” means a medication is prescribed for a condition or in a population for which it has not been officially approved by regulatory bodies. This practice is legal and sometimes necessary when a healthcare provider determines, based on their clinical judgment and emerging evidence, that a medication may offer benefits to a patient even without formal approval for that specific use.

However, when a medication is used off-label, it places a greater responsibility on both the prescribing clinician and the patient. There is less data available on long-term safety, optimal dosing, and potential interactions in the off-label population. Therefore, if a medical professional chooses to prescribe Mounjaro to an individual with type 1 diabetes, it is always done as an adjunct to traditional insulin therapy, never as a replacement. Such decisions are made with extreme caution, requiring thorough patient education about potential benefits and, critically, the heightened risks involved.

At TrimRx, we are committed to providing personalized, medically supervised care that is both safe and effective. Our platform ensures that any prescription medications, including those like Mounjaro, Ozempic®, Zepbound®, and Wegovy® (all FDA-approved for their respective indications), or our compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, are provided through FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies. We facilitate a comprehensive service that includes doctor consultations, potential lab work, and unlimited support, ensuring a transparent and safe approach to your weight loss journey. To determine eligibility for a personalized treatment plan, we invite you to take our free assessment quiz.

Exploring Mounjaro’s Potential in Type 1 Diabetes

The enthusiasm for exploring Mounjaro’s use in type 1 diabetes stems from its profound effects on weight management and blood sugar regulation in type 2 diabetes. While the underlying pathology of type 1 diabetes—the inability to produce insulin—diffles significantly from type 2, some of Mounjaro’s mechanisms may still offer considerable advantages for individuals who require exogenous insulin.

Preliminary Research and Promising Outcomes

Though large-scale, prospective clinical trials specific to Mounjaro and type 1 diabetes are still needed, preliminary research and observational studies have begun to shed light on its potential. Findings presented at medical conferences and in early publications suggest compelling benefits, particularly for overweight or obese individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Weight Loss and Insulin Sensitivity

One of the most significant benefits observed is substantial weight loss. Studies have indicated that individuals with type 1 diabetes taking tirzepatide have experienced notable reductions in body weight. For instance, some preliminary data showed an average weight loss of over 21% with tirzepatide in this population, a figure that is highly significant for metabolic health. This weight loss is crucial because it can directly lead to an improvement in insulin sensitivity. When an individual with type 1 diabetes loses weight, their cells become more responsive to insulin, meaning they may require less exogenous insulin to achieve the same level of glucose control. This reduction in daily insulin intake (up to an 18% decrease was observed in some reports for Mounjaro users) can be a major advantage, potentially simplifying diabetes management and reducing the risk factors associated with high-dose insulin therapy.

Blood Sugar Control and Reduced Complication Risks

Beyond weight loss, Mounjaro’s mechanisms, such as slowing gastric emptying and reducing glucagon secretion, can help to stabilize blood sugar levels. Even though individuals with type 1 diabetes don’t produce insulin endogenously, these actions can still lead to a smoother post-meal glucose response and overall better glycemic control. By mitigating post-prandial spikes and lowering overall glucose exposure, these medications have the potential to reduce the risk of both microvascular (eye, nerve, kidney) and macrovascular (heart disease) complications that are common in long-standing diabetes. The overall improvement in blood sugar control, coupled with the reduction in obesity-related risks, presents a compelling argument for further investigation into these agents as valuable adjunctive therapies.

The Mechanisms at Play for Type 1 Diabetics

It’s important to understand which of Mounjaro’s mechanisms are most relevant for type 1 diabetes.

1. Slowing Gastric Emptying: This is highly beneficial. By delaying how quickly food moves from the stomach to the small intestine, Mounjaro can help prevent rapid spikes in blood sugar after meals. For type 1 diabetics, who must carefully time their insulin doses with food intake, this can provide a wider window for insulin to act, leading to flatter and more predictable post-meal glucose curves.
2. Suppressing Glucagon: Even in type 1 diabetes, residual glucagon secretion can contribute to elevated blood glucose, especially in situations like overnight fasting or stress. Mounjaro’s ability to reduce glucagon levels can help to decrease hepatic glucose production, contributing to better fasting glucose control.
3. Appetite Reduction and Satiety: These effects are universal, regardless of diabetes type. By helping individuals feel fuller for longer and reducing overall calorie intake, Mounjaro supports sustained weight loss, which in turn improves insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health for type 1 diabetics.

While the insulinotropic effect (stimulating insulin release) of Mounjaro is less directly applicable in type 1 diabetes due to the lack of endogenous insulin production, the other mechanisms still offer substantial benefits. The combination of weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and enhanced glucose stability through slowed digestion and glucagon suppression makes Mounjaro an intriguing candidate for adjunctive therapy, even as its use remains cautiously explored.

Navigating the Risks: A Critical Consideration for Type 1 Diabetics

Despite the promising preliminary data, the medical community remains highly cautious about recommending Mounjaro or other GLP-1 agonists for widespread use in individuals with type 1 diabetes. This caution stems from very real and potentially severe risks unique to this population, which necessitate an unparalleled level of medical supervision and a profoundly individualized treatment strategy.

The Threat of Hypoglycemia

One of the most significant concerns for type 1 diabetics taking Mounjaro is the elevated risk of severe low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia. While GLP-1 agonists themselves are not typically primary drivers of hypoglycemia in individuals who produce their own insulin (as their insulin-stimulating effect is glucose-dependent), they radically impact insulin requirements in type 1 diabetics. Mounjaro increases insulin sensitivity and can reduce the need for exogenous insulin. If insulin doses are not rapidly and appropriately adjusted downwards when starting or escalating Mounjaro, individuals are at high risk of receiving too much insulin, leading to dangerously low blood sugar levels.

Hypoglycemia can manifest with symptoms ranging from mild (shakiness, sweating, confusion, hunger) to severe (seizures, loss of consciousness, coma), requiring immediate intervention. Managing insulin doses when introducing Mounjaro is a delicate balance, demanding close monitoring, potentially with continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and frequent communication with a healthcare provider experienced in both therapies. The margin for error is thin, and an overcorrection in insulin reduction can be as dangerous as an under-correction.

The Risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

On the other end of the spectrum, Mounjaro’s use in type 1 diabetes also raises concerns about an increased risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a life-threatening condition caused by a critical lack of insulin, leading the body to break down fat for energy, producing acidic ketones.

One primary way GLP-1 agonists can indirectly increase DKA risk in type 1 diabetics is through their potential to cause severe gastrointestinal side effects.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects and Dehydration

GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists are well-known for their gastrointestinal side effects, which can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. While these often subside as the body adjusts to the medication, they can be pronounced, especially at higher dosages. For most people, these are uncomfortable but manageable. However, for individuals with type 1 diabetes, dehydrating illnesses like persistent vomiting and diarrhea present a sharply elevated risk of DKA.

When a person with type 1 diabetes experiences severe vomiting or diarrhea, they may struggle to eat or drink sufficiently. This can lead to a decrease in their insulin intake, either because they mistakenly believe they need less insulin without food, or because they are advised to reduce insulin during periods of illness. A critical lack of insulin, compounded by dehydration, can rapidly precipitate DKA. Symptoms of DKA include severe thirst, frequent urination, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and fruity-smelling breath. It requires emergency medical treatment and is fatal if left untreated.

Therefore, the gastrointestinal side effects, coupled with the complex interplay of insulin requirements, make the use of Mounjaro in type 1 diabetes a high-stakes endeavor that demands constant vigilance and proactive management strategies to mitigate these severe risks. It’s a testament to the complexity of these medications that they pose risks at both ends of the blood sugar spectrum—hypoglycemia and DKA—for this unique patient population.

The Importance of Personalized, Medically Supervised Care

Given the delicate balance required when considering medications like Mounjaro for type 1 diabetes, the role of personalized, medically supervised care becomes not just important, but absolutely essential. This is precisely where our values at TrimRx shine, as we believe sustainable weight loss and health management should be achieved through science, empathy, and a transparent approach.

Why Expert Guidance is Non-Negotiable

For individuals with type 1 diabetes exploring adjunctive therapies like Mounjaro, expert medical guidance is critical for several reasons:

1. Risk Mitigation: As discussed, the risks of severe hypoglycemia and DKA are significantly heightened. An experienced healthcare provider specializing in diabetes can develop a precise, individualized plan for insulin dose adjustments, monitor blood glucose trends closely, and educate on how to manage potential side effects and sick-day rules. This level of intricate risk management simply cannot be undertaken without specialized medical oversight.
2. Individualized Assessment: Every individual’s type 1 diabetes journey is unique, influenced by factors like insulin regimen, existing complications, lifestyle, and other medications. A thorough medical consultation is necessary to assess whether the potential benefits of Mounjaro outweigh the risks for a specific patient, considering their full medical history. This involves reviewing lab work, current medications, and overall health status to create a truly personalized care plan.
3. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments: The initial prescription is just the first step. The dynamic nature of type 1 diabetes and the powerful effects of Mounjaro mean that continuous monitoring and frequent adjustments to both insulin and Mounjaro dosages are often necessary. This requires access to a healthcare team that can provide unlimited support and respond promptly to changes in health status or blood glucose patterns.
4. Education and Empowerment: A key component of medically supervised care is patient education. Understanding how Mounjaro works, recognizing potential side effects, knowing when to seek urgent medical attention, and mastering precise insulin adjustments are crucial for safe and effective use. An empathetic and trustworthy healthcare provider empowers individuals to actively participate in their treatment plan.

Without this level of dedicated, expert medical supervision, the potential for serious adverse events significantly increases. Studies where patients with type 1 diabetes successfully used GLP-1 agonists often involved intensive monitoring, sometimes including continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and frequent contact with clinical staff, a level of oversight that is not always readily available in broader clinical settings.

Our Commitment to Safety and Individualized Plans

At TrimRx, our journey began with a shared vision to help individuals embrace healthier lifestyles by merging cutting-edge telehealth innovations with effective weight loss solutions. We understand the profound complexity of conditions like type 1 diabetes and the critical need for an individualized approach. Our platform is designed to be a user-friendly and supportive space where individuals receive personalized, medically supervised care—all crafted to make sustainable weight loss attainable and tailored to the individual.

We combine advanced medical science with modern technology to deliver compassionate care that respects every individual’s unique journey. Our commitment to transparent service means that our approach remains consistent, focusing on your well-being regardless of dosage changes. We prioritize your safety by working exclusively with FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies for the shipping of weight loss medications. While we facilitate comprehensive support and connect you with qualified medical professionals, it’s important to understand that TrimRx partners with these pharmacies for medication delivery and does not directly provide medical supervision, which is handled by our network of licensed medical providers who guide your treatment plan.

For those considering prescription weight loss medications, we encourage you to take our free assessment quiz to determine your eligibility and receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your health needs. This initial step is vital for ensuring you receive the appropriate, safe, and effective care you deserve.

TrimRx’s Approach to Supporting Your Health Journey

At TrimRx, we recognize that true health transformation is a holistic endeavor, encompassing not just medication but also comprehensive support, education, and lifestyle integration. Our offerings are designed to provide pathways to safe and effective weight loss, always with an emphasis on individualized care and clinical backing.

Personalized Weight Loss Solutions

For those exploring powerful weight loss and blood sugar management options like Mounjaro, Ozempic®, Zepbound®, or other clinically proven medications, our Personalized Weight Loss Program is the starting point. This program is built around the understanding that effective treatment begins with a thorough, individualized assessment.

Our offerings in this category include:

• Compounded Semaglutide: A GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to the active ingredient in Ozempic® and Wegovy®, compounded by FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies.
• Oral Semaglutide: An oral form of semaglutide, providing an alternative to injections, sourced from FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies.
• Ozempic®: The branded, FDA-approved injectable semaglutide for type 2 diabetes.
• Compounded Tirzepatide: A GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, similar to Mounjaro® and Zepbound®, compounded by FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies.
• Oral Tirzepatide: An oral option for tirzepatide, sourced from FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies.
• Mounjaro®: The branded, FDA-approved injectable tirzepatide for type 2 diabetes.
• Zepbound®: The branded, FDA-approved injectable tirzepatide for chronic weight management.
• Wegovy®: The branded, FDA-approved injectable semaglutide for chronic weight management.

To access these prescription medications, users must complete our free assessment quiz to determine their eligibility and receive a personalized treatment plan. This quiz allows our affiliated medical professionals to understand your health profile, medical history, and weight loss goals, ensuring that any prescribed medication is appropriate and safe for your unique situation. Our comprehensive service includes doctor consultations, medication, lab work (if clinically indicated), unlimited support, and shipping, all with no hidden fees. We believe in complete transparency and a supportive environment for your journey. Take our free assessment quiz today to see if you qualify!

Quick-Access Supplements for Holistic Support

We also understand that many individuals benefit from immediate support that complements their broader health and weight loss strategies. For this reason, we offer quick-access supplements that do not require a quiz for purchase, designed to support overall wellness during your weight loss journey.

Our quick-access supplements include:

• GLP-1 Daily Support: This supplement is formulated to provide comprehensive support for metabolic health and appetite regulation. It’s an ideal addition for those looking to enhance their wellness journey. Discover more and purchase our GLP-1 Daily Support today.
• Weight Loss Boost: Designed to give your weight loss efforts an extra edge, this supplement complements a healthy diet and exercise routine. It’s a convenient way to support your body’s natural weight management processes. Get started with our Weight Loss Boost for immediate support.

These supplements are readily available to assist you in various aspects of your health, reflecting our commitment to offering a diverse range of science-backed tools for your well-being. Whether you’re considering prescription medication or seeking supplementary support, TrimRx is here to empower your path to a healthier life.

Conclusion

The question of whether can type 1 diabetics take Mounjaro is a complex one, filled with both exciting potential and significant cautionary flags. Preliminary research suggests that Mounjaro and other GLP-1 agonists may offer compelling benefits for overweight or obese individuals with type 1 diabetes, particularly in achieving substantial weight loss, improving insulin sensitivity, and potentially enhancing blood sugar control. By leveraging mechanisms like slowed gastric emptying, reduced glucagon secretion, and appetite suppression, these medications can contribute to a more stable metabolic environment, lessening the burden of high-dose insulin and mitigating the risks of obesity-related complications.

However, these potential advantages are inextricably linked to heightened risks that demand profound respect and meticulous management. The delicate balance of insulin requirements in type 1 diabetes means that Mounjaro’s introduction carries a significant risk of severe hypoglycemia if insulin doses are not expertly adjusted. Furthermore, its common gastrointestinal side effects can lead to dehydration, sharply increasing the danger of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)—two life-threatening conditions unique to type 1 diabetes management.

Therefore, while the science continues to evolve, the consensus among experts is clear: any consideration of Mounjaro for type 1 diabetes must occur under the strictest, most comprehensive medical supervision. It requires a highly personalized approach, continuous monitoring, and a healthcare team deeply experienced in managing both type 1 diabetes and these powerful new medications. This is not a journey to embark on lightly or without dedicated professional guidance.

At TrimRx, we are founded on the principles of science, empathy, and transparency, dedicated to providing safe and effective pathways to weight loss and improved health. We understand the critical importance of individualized care, especially when navigating complex health considerations. If you are exploring options for weight management and metabolic health, we encourage you to engage with our personalized programs. Take our free assessment quiz to connect with medical professionals who can evaluate your eligibility for prescription weight loss medications and create a tailored plan for you. Additionally, for immediate support in your wellness journey, explore our beneficial quick-access supplements like GLP-1 Daily Support and Weight Loss Boost. Your health journey is personal, and we are here to support you every step of the way with clinically proven, personalized solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mounjaro FDA-approved for type 1 diabetes?

No, Mounjaro is currently FDA-approved solely for improving blood sugar control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Its use in individuals with type 1 diabetes is considered off-label and is not formally approved by the FDA, as it has not been studied in large-scale clinical trials for this specific population.

What are the main risks for type 1 diabetics taking Mounjaro?

The primary risks for type 1 diabetics using Mounjaro are severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Mounjaro increases insulin sensitivity, requiring careful adjustment of insulin doses to avoid hypoglycemia. Additionally, its gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) can lead to dehydration, a critical risk factor for DKA in individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Can Mounjaro replace insulin for type 1 diabetics?

Absolutely not. Mounjaro, or any other GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist, cannot replace insulin therapy for individuals with type 1 diabetes. Type 1 diabetics must take insulin because their bodies do not produce it. If Mounjaro is prescribed for a type 1 diabetic, it is always as an adjunct to insulin, never a substitute.

How does TrimRx support individuals considering advanced weight loss medications?

At TrimRx, we offer personalized, medically supervised weight loss solutions, including prescription medications like Mounjaro, Ozempic®, Zepbound®, and our compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide. Our process begins with a free assessment quiz to determine eligibility and create a personalized treatment plan. Our comprehensive service includes doctor consultations, medication sourced from FDA-registered and inspected pharmacies, potential lab work, unlimited support, and shipping, all with transparency and no hidden fees.