What is Zepbound prescribed for?
Zepbound is prescribed for Chronic weight management in adults with obesity (body mass index of 30 kilograms per square meter (kg/ m2) or greater) or overweight (body mass index of 27 kg/m2 or greater) with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol) for use, in addition to a reduced calorie diet and increased physical activity.
What is the name of the drug and what does it do?
Zepbound, pronounced ZEHP-bownd, (generic name: (tirzepatide) is an injection approved for weight loss in overweight and obese adults.
It’s designed to be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to help manage chronic weight issues effectively.
How does it work?
Zepbound is a dual agonist of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors.
These receptors play key roles in regulating insulin secretion and appetite. By activating these receptors, Zepbound enhances the body’s natural ability to control blood sugar and reduce appetite, which helps in weight loss.
What did the research discover?
Clinical trials have shown that Zepbound is effective in reducing body weight significantly compared to placebo.
Patients using Zepbound, in combination with lifestyle modifications, experienced considerable weight loss, demonstrating its effectiveness as a treatment for chronic weight management.
What are some of the side effects?
The side effects listed are from the product manufacturer. As health scientists, we share this information to keep you informed without causing undue worry. Many side effects diminish over time, and not all patients experience them. If prescribed medication, take it as directed and consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerning side effects.
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Injection site reactions
- Increased heart rate
What are the dosage recommendations and how is it prescribed?
Zepbound is given as an injection under the skin once a week. The starting dose is 2.5 mg, which can be increased to 5 mg after four weeks based on patient response and tolerability.
The dosage may further be adjusted in 2.5 mg increments, up to a maximum of 15 mg once weekly. It is crucial for patients to receive proper training on injection techniques to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.
Source:
Highlights of Prescribing Information for ZEPBOUND. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2024/217806s005s006s011s015s019lbl.pdf Accessed July 15’2024.
