Zepbound
Zepbound (Tirzepatide is an injectable prescription medication used for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight who have weight-related medical conditions. Zepbound aids in weight loss and helps maintain it over time. Its effectiveness is maximized when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
How Zepbound Works
Zepbound contains the active ingredient tirzepatide, a medication designed to help regulate blood sugar and manage weight. Tirzepatide acts by mimicking hormones in the body that promote satiety and reduce hunger, supporting a healthier metabolic balance and weight loss. It is important to note that Zepbound should not be used with other tirzepatide-based products or any GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Usage Information
Zepbound is administered as a weekly subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. Suitable injection sites include the stomach (abdomen), thigh, or upper arm. Patients can change the day of the week for the injection as long as at least three days (72 hours) pass between doses.
Instructions for Use
- Inject Zepbound once a week, at any time of day.
- Zepbound can be injected with or without food.
- Change the injection site with each dose, using a different area of the same body part if desired.
- If a dose is missed, it should be administered as soon as possible within four days (96 hours). If more than four days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with the next scheduled dose.
Storage
Store Zepbound in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and in its original packaging to protect from light. If needed, it may be stored at room temperature (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 21 days. Do not freeze, and discard if left unrefrigerated for over 21 days.
Precautions and Contraindications
Do Not Use Zepbound If:
- You or any family member has a history of a specific type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or have an endocrine system condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- You have a serious allergic reaction to tirzepatide or any of Zepbound’s other ingredients.
Important Medical Considerations
Before using Zepbound, discuss the following with your healthcare provider:
- History of pancreatitis, as the safety of Zepbound in individuals with a history of pancreatitis is unknown.
- Presence of severe stomach conditions, such as gastroparesis (slow stomach emptying).
- Current or planned pregnancy, as Zepbound may harm an unborn baby.
- Breastfeeding intentions, as it is unknown if Zepbound passes into breast milk.
- Use of other medications, including diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas, as these could increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
Pregnancy Exposure Registry: Women who take Zepbound during pregnancy are encouraged to participate in a registry to monitor health outcomes. Contact Eli Lilly and Company at 1-800-LillyRx for more information.
Potential Side Effects
Serious Side Effects
Zepbound may cause the following serious side effects:
- Severe stomach problems: Report any ongoing or severe stomach pain to your healthcare provider.
- Kidney issues: Symptoms like dehydration due to diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting may lead to kidney problems.
- Gallbladder issues: Symptoms of gallbladder problems include pain in the upper abdomen, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), and clay-colored stools.
- Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back may indicate inflammation of the pancreas.
- Serious allergic reactions: Seek immediate medical help if experiencing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, severe rash, or rapid heartbeat.
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia): Be aware of symptoms like dizziness, sweating, confusion, blurred vision, and shakiness.
- Vision changes: Especially in patients with type 2 diabetes.
- Mood changes: Report any symptoms of depression or thoughts of self-harm.
Common Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effects include:
- Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, indigestion
- Injection site reactions
- Fatigue, allergic reactions, hair loss, heartburn, and belching
Drug Interactions
Zepbound may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Consult your healthcare provider if you are on medications, especially if taking diabetes medications, as adjustments may be necessary.
Weight Loss Results for Zepbound & Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Zepbound, containing the active ingredient Tirzepatide, has demonstrated significant effectiveness in weight reduction for patients with obesity or overweight status when combined with lifestyle modifications such as a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Research comparing Tirzepatide to other weight loss and diabetes management medications, including Semaglutide (sold as Wegovy), has shown notable outcomes favoring Tirzepatide.
Meta-Analysis Comparison
A 2021 meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of Tirzepatide compared to other medications like Dulaglutide, Semaglutide, Degludec, and Insulin Glargine. Over one year of clinical use, Tirzepatide was observed to be superior to these other agents regarding both glycemic control and obesity reduction, making it a powerful option for patients needing substantial weight loss support.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref>
Phase III Clinical Trial Results for Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
In a large-scale, phase III, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial sponsored by Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Tirzepatide, adults without diabetes but with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, or a BMI of 27 or more with at least one weight-related complication, were studied. Participants were divided to receive either a once-weekly, subcutaneous injection of Tirzepatide (at doses of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg) or a placebo.
The results at week 72 showed significant weight reductions for those on Tirzepatide:
- 5 mg weekly dose: −15.0% weight reduction (95% CI, −15.9 to −14.2)
- 10 mg weekly dose: −19.5% weight reduction (95% CI, −20.4 to −18.5)
- 15 mg weekly dose: −20.9% weight reduction (95% CI, −21.8 to −19.9)
- Placebo group: −3.1% weight reduction (95% CI, −4.3 to −1.9)
These outcomes highlight the significant weight-loss potential of Tirzepatide, with higher doses yielding greater weight reductions.<ref>Template:Cite journal</ref>
Comparison to Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Semaglutide, another popular weight loss medication, has shown effectiveness in aiding weight loss; however, studies indicate that Tirzepatide (Zepbound) may offer superior results in terms of the percentage of weight loss over time. Semaglutide users have achieved an approximate average of 15% body weight reduction at maximum doses, while Tirzepatide users on a 15 mg weekly dose experienced a reduction nearing 21% at 72 weeks, making Zepbound potentially more effective for individuals with significant weight loss goals.
List of Popular Brand Name Drugs for Weight Loss
- Wegovy – contains semaglutide, used in obesity management.
- Saxenda – contains liraglutide, aids in weight loss by controlling appetite.
- Contrave – combines naltrexone and bupropion for weight management.
- Qsymia – combines phentermine and topiramate, used for long-term weight management.
- Alli – an over-the-counter version of orlistat, which blocks fat absorption in the intestines.
- Phentermine – an appetite suppressant for short-term use.
- Diethylpropioin - is a non amphetamine based prescription drug for weight loss, works as an appetite suppressant.
- Phendimetrazine - a short acting amphetamine based controlled prescription weight loss medication.
How can W8MD help?
W8MD Medical Weight Loss Centers of America offers a physician-supervised, insurance-based weight loss program designed to help individuals manage their weight and improve overall wellness.
Comprehensive Weight Loss Program
W8MD Weight Loss Clinics provide a variety of weight loss solutions, including access to prescription medications such as Tirzepatide and Semaglutide, under brand names like Zepbound and Wegovy. These medications may be available through the patient’s own insurance, and for those without insurance coverage, a generic option for Tirzepatide is offered at an affordable rate starting at $125.00 biweekly for the initial dose.
Medical Weight Loss Services
At W8MD Weight Loss Centers, board-certified physicians use a comprehensive approach to weight management that includes:
- Prescription medications: Medications like Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are prescribed to support weight loss, particularly for individuals who are overweight or obese.
- Insurance support: W8MD physicians assist patients in obtaining prior authorizations for coverage when necessary, helping those with insurance plans that may require prior authorization for medications like Zepbound or Wegovy.
- Personalized treatment plans: Each patient’s treatment is customized, combining medication with dietary guidance and physical activity recommendations for a holistic approach.
Benefits of Tirzepatide and Semaglutide for Weight Loss
Both Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are proven to aid in weight loss by reducing appetite and improving metabolic function. They can be particularly effective when:
- Integrated with a healthy diet and exercise: Medications are used as part of a comprehensive weight loss plan.
- Guided by healthcare professionals: W8MD physicians provide expert advice on safely using these medications, monitoring progress, and adjusting treatment as necessary.
By choosing W8MD, patients gain access to a structured, supportive environment where weight loss medications like Tirzepatide and Semaglutide are prescribed as part of a broader wellness plan tailored to individual needs.
See Also
Additional Information
For questions about Zepbound, contact your healthcare provider or refer to the medication guide provided with the prescription.
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers
W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers is a network of medical centers located in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and surrounding areas that provide comprehensive care for weight loss, sleep disorders, and aesthetic treatments.
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Locations
W8MD location(s):
- Brooklyn, NY: NYC medical weight loss, sleep and medspa: 2632 E 21st St., Suite L2, Brooklyn, NY 11235 Contact: (718)946-5500
- W8MD's Weight loss diet - Recipes (WikiMD)
- Links: Weight loss | Sleep medicine | Medical spa | Nutrition | Success stories |
- Diet pills: Phentermine, Phen/Topiramate, Wegovy, Saxenda, Mounjaro, Contrave, Plenity, Diethylpropion, Phendimetrazine
- Resources: W8MD diet | Keto diet guide | Free Ebook | 12 Ways to lose weight quickly | 8 Amazing Weeks
References
- Eli Lilly and Company. Zepbound Medication Guide.
- FDA. Zepbound Prescribing Information.