Zepbound

Description

Zepbound (generic name: tirzepatide) is a weight management medication used in adults who are obese or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related condition. It belongs to a class of drugs known as dual incretin receptor agonists. This means it mimics two natural hormones, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), that help regulate appetite and food intake.

By acting on both receptors, Zepbound increases the feeling of fullness, reduces hunger, and slows down how quickly food moves through the stomach. This combination helps a person eat less and lose weight. In addition to lowering appetite, Zepbound also helps reduce cravings for high-calorie foods, especially those high in sugar and fat.

Zepbound is available in a multi-dose prefilled injection pen, taken once weekly. The medication is part of a broader treatment plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is not a form of insulin and should not be used in children under 18.

Pregnant women should not be using Zepbound unless this has been discussed with a healthcare provider, as it might harm the unborn baby or pose a risk of miscarriage. For this reason, women planning to become pregnant should use appropriate birth control measures during the treatment and one month after taking the last dose of Zepbound. Zepbound may pass into breast milk, and mothers should consult with a doctor if already feeding or planning to feed an infant.

Usual dosage

Follow the prescribing doctor’s dosage instructions which are printed on the label of the box. Check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any doubts regarding the proper dosage and treatment regimen.

People prescribed Zepbound will often begin on a low dose and gradually increase based on tolerance and healthcare guidance.

• The usual starting dose is 2.5 mg once per week, injected under the skin.
• After four weeks, the dose is typically increased to 5 mg per week, but may be increased in 2.5 mg steps if needed.

The medicine is self-injected under the skin in areas such as the thigh, abdomen, or back of the arm. It is important to read the instructions for self-injection that come with the product. People with limited vision should get help when injecting.

• Zepbound is injected once a week, on the same day each week. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food.
• Maintenance doses are 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg once per week, as determined by the doctor.
• If a dose is missed and it has been less than 4 days, take it as soon as remembered. If more than 4 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume on the usual day.

Storage instructions

• Store Zepbound KwikPen in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C until the expiration date.
• If needed, a pen may be stored at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 30 days, but the pen should not be returned to the refrigerator.
• Do not freeze. If the pen has been frozen, discard it.
• Protect the pen from light. Keep it in the original packaging until use.
• Each pen contains four weekly doses. Discard the pen after the fourth dose, even if liquid remains.
• Use a sharps container for disposal and keep out of reach of children.