Medically reviewed on November 19, 2023 by Morgan Spicer, Medical Communications Manager. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.
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Table of contents
- Tirzepatide for Weight Loss
- What Is Zepbound®?
- Benefits of Zepbound®
- Risks of Zepbound®
- How to Get Tirzepatide for Weight Loss
- Explore Weight Loss Support Options
- Related Content
Obesity can increase the risk of several serious health conditions, including stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.[1] In the United States, obesity affects nearly 42% of adults and almost 20% of children, contributing to more than $146 billion in annual healthcare costs.[2]
Although prevention and lifestyle changes remain important, many individuals face challenges that make long-term weight management difficult. In recent years, prescription weight loss medications have become more widely used alongside diet and physical activity changes. Research suggests that combining these approaches may result in meaningful weight loss for some individuals.[4]
Tirzepatide for Weight Loss
Tirzepatide is an injectable medication originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes and has recently received FDA approval for weight management.[1,5] The medication works by activating pathways that increase insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels. Tirzepatide may also help decrease appetite and support weight loss.
Common brand names for tirzepatide include Mounjaro® for diabetes treatment and Zepbound® for weight management.[1,6]
When Was Tirzepatide Approved for Weight Loss?
Tirzepatide was approved by the FDA for weight loss on November 8, 2023 under the brand name Zepbound®.[1]
The medication is expected to be available in the United States starting in late 2023, with a list price of approximately $1,059.87. Depending on insurance coverage, some individuals may pay significantly less for a one- to three-month prescription.[1]
What Is Zepbound®?
Zepbound® is a once-weekly injectable medication approved for adults who are obese or overweight with at least one weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or type 2 diabetes.[7]
The active ingredient in Zepbound® is tirzepatide—the same compound used in the diabetes medication Mounjaro®.[6,7]
Zepbound® works by activating two hormone receptors: glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).[1,6,7] These hormones play important roles in how the body regulates insulin, glucose levels, digestion, and feelings of fullness after eating.[8,9]
Zepbound® is the first FDA-approved weight loss medication that activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors simultaneously.[1]
Tirzepatide Dosing for Weight Loss
Zepbound® is expected to be available in several dose strengths, including 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg.[1,7]
The medication is administered once weekly as a subcutaneous injection in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. A healthcare provider determines the appropriate starting dose and dose adjustments.
Zepbound® vs. Mounjaro®
Zepbound® and Mounjaro® both contain the active ingredient tirzepatide. The primary difference is the condition each medication is approved to treat.
Zepbound® is FDA-approved for chronic weight management, while Mounjaro® is approved for type 2 diabetes treatment.[1,6,7]
Some clinicians previously prescribed Mounjaro® off-label for weight loss. Off-label use refers to prescribing a medication for a purpose other than the condition it was originally approved to treat.[10]
Insurance coverage can differ for off-label uses, so the approval of Zepbound® may improve access and coverage for weight management treatment.[11]
Benefits of Zepbound®
Clinical studies suggest that Zepbound® may support meaningful weight loss when used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.[1,7]
Weight loss was observed across all studied dose levels (5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg).[1,7]
In one study, adults taking the highest dose for 72 weeks lost an average of 48 pounds, while those taking the lowest dose lost an average of 34 pounds.[1]
Additional observed benefits included improvements in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood sugar control.[1,7]
Risks of Zepbound®
Zepbound® may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, injection-site reactions, allergic reactions, burping, hair loss, and acid reflux.[1,7]
Animal studies have also shown thyroid C-cell tumors in rats, although it is not yet known whether this risk applies to humans.[7]
The medication has not been studied extensively in people with a history of pancreatitis or severe gastrointestinal disease. Individuals with underlying conditions or those taking other GLP-1 medications should discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider.
Learn more about managing weight loss medication side effects.
How to Get Tirzepatide for Weight Loss
Zepbound® is approved for individuals who are obese or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.[1,7]
If you're interested in tirzepatide for weight loss, speaking with a healthcare provider is the best first step. They can help determine whether medications such as Zepbound® or Mounjaro® may be appropriate based on your medical history.
Explore Weight Loss Support Options
Even modest weight loss can improve health outcomes. Research suggests that losing as little as 5% of body weight may help reduce the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.[12]
Online telehealth programs, such as our partner Shed’s, make it easier to connect with licensed clinicians who specialize in weight management. These providers can discuss treatment options, medications, and lifestyle strategies tailored to your goals.
Related Content
Mounjaro® Vs. Wegovy® For Weight Loss
Understanding Ozempic® vs. Mounjaro® for Weight Loss
References
- FDA Approves Lilly's Zepbound™ (tirzepatide) for Chronic Weight Management, a Powerful New Option for the Treatment of Obesity or Overweight with Weight-Related Medical Problems. Lilly. November 8 2023. https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-lillys-Zepboundtm-tirzepatide-chronic-weight
- Ogden CL, Fakhouri TH, Carroll MD, et al. Prevalence of Obesity Among Adults, by Household Income and Education — United States, 2011–2014. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2017;66:1369–1373. DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.mm6650a1
- Washington TB, Johnson VR, Kendrick K, et al. Disparities in Access and Quality of Obesity Care. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2023;52(2):429-441. doi:10.1016/j.gtc.2023.02.003
- Prescription weight-loss drugs. Mayo Clinic. October 29 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss-drugs/art-20044832#
- Tirzepatide Injection. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed November 17 2023. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/23789-tirzepatide-injection
- Farzam K, Patel P. Tirzepatide. [Updated 2023 Jul 2]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK585056/
- FDA Approves New Medication for Chronic Weight Management. FDA Press Announcements. November 8 2023. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-medication-chronic-weight-management
- Gasbjerg LS, Gabe MBN, Hartmann B, et al. Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor antagonists as anti-diabetic agents. Peptides. 2018;100:173-181. doi:10.1016/j.peptides.2017.11.021
- GLP-1 Agonists. Cleveland Clinic. July 2023 https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/13901-glp-1-agonists
- Understanding Unapproved Use of Approved Drugs "Off Label". FDA. February 2018. https://www.fda.gov/patients/learn-about-expanded-access-and-other-treatment-options/understanding-unapproved-use-approved-drugs-label
- Blum, Dani. What to Know About Zepbound, the New Weight Loss Drug. New York Times. November 8 2023. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/08/well/zepbound-mounjaro-weight-loss.html
- Farhana A, Rehman A. Metabolic Consequences of Weight Reduction. [Updated 2023 Jul 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK572145/
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