Zepbound Injection
Zepbound® (Tirzepatide) Medical Weight Management
Obesity Medicine Clinic: The Caring Weight Loss Center in Warrenton
The New Wonder Drug For Weight Loss
Zepbound (also known as Tirzepatide) is an injectable prescription medicine that may help adults with obesity, or with excess weight (overweight) who also have weight-related medical problems, lose weight and keep it off. Zepbound should be used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Zepbound works differently by activating 2 hormone receptors.**It reduces appetite,food intake, body fat, and body weight.
History
Tirzepatide was approved for treatment to improve glycaemic control in adults with T2DM, as an adjunct to diet and exercise in the United States in May 2022, in the
European Union in September 2022, in Canada in November 2022, and in Australia in December 2022. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers it to be a
first-in-class medication. It was approved by the FDA for weight loss in November 2023.FDA approval of Zepbound was based on results from the phase 3
SURMOUNT-1 (adults with obesity or overweight and without type 2 diabetes)and SURMOUNT-2 (adults with obesity or overweight and with type 2 diabetes)
trials which both demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in body weightcompared to those who received placebo after 72 weeks of treatment.
– In SURMOUNT-1, people taking Zepbound at the highest dose (15 mg) lost on average 48 pounds, and people taking the lowest dose (5 mg) lost on average 34
pounds (compared to 7 pounds on placebo).
– In SURMOUNT-2, people taking Zepbound at the 15 mg dose experienced average weight reductions of 15.7% (34.4 pounds) and people taking Zepbound at the 10 mg dose experienced average weight reductions of 13.4% (29.8 pounds) compared to placebo 3.3% (7.0 pounds).
Medical Weight Loss
Understanding Zepbound®:How It Works for Weight Loss
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a prescription medication used for chronic weight management in adults who are overweight or obese. It is typically recommended for individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher with related health conditions, or 30 and above, and is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
Zepbound works differently from other weight loss medications such as Wegovy. It is the first treatment designed to target both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which are hormones naturally produced by the body to regulate blood sugar and appetite.
These hormones play an important role in how your body processes food. They signal the pancreas to release insulin after eating, help control the production of glucose, and influence how quickly food moves through the digestive system. They also play a key role in controlling hunger and feelings of fullness.
By activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, Zepbound enhances these natural processes and extends their effects. This leads to slower stomach emptying, reduced appetite, fewer cravings, improved blood sugar control, and a longer-lasting feeling of fullness.
As a result, patients typically consume fewer calories, which supports effective and sustainable weight loss over time. In addition to weight management, tirzepatide is also used under the name Mounjaro for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
Using Zepbound®: Dosage, Safety, and Side Effects
Learn how Zepbound® is used, who it is suitable for, and important safety information before starting treatment.
1. How to Use Zepbound®
Zepbound is injected under the skin (subcutaneously) in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. It is typically used once per week at any time of the day. Be sure to rotate your injection site each week to avoid irritation and do not use the same site repeatedly.
2. Who Should Not Use Zepbound®
Zepbound is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or those who have experienced pancreatitis. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting treatment.
3. Common Side Effects
Common side effects may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach discomfort, indigestion, fatigue, or injection site reactions. Some individuals may also experience heartburn, mild allergic reactions, or temporary hair thinning. These effects are usually more noticeable at the beginning of treatment.
4. Managing Side Effects
Your doctor may prescribe medication to help manage symptoms such as nausea. In most cases, your body gradually adapts to the treatment, and side effects reduce over time with continued use.
5. Serious Side Effects to Watch For
Although rare, serious side effects may occur. Seek medical attention if you experience severe stomach pain, symptoms of pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, signs of dehydration, or allergic reactions such as swelling or difficulty breathing.
6. Additional Safety Considerations
Low blood sugar may occur, especially when combined with certain diabetes medications. Some patients may also notice changes in vision or mood. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms.