Zepbound Approved by the FDA for Weight Loss

Zepound is a new, injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist just approved by the FDA in 2023 for weight loss.  The generic name for Zepbound is tirzepatide. It is the same molecule as the diabetes medicine known as Mounjaro. It’s the first of these medications that not only activates both GLP-1 and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors.  This means that in addition to helping modify signals of fullness to your brain, it also activates the GIP receptors which may improve how your body breaks down fats and sugars.  Based on data submitted to the FDA from SURMOUNT-1 and SURMOUNT-2 trials, they were able to show weight loss out to 72 weeks of 48 pounds on average with the highest dose of 15mg.  Even at the lowest dose (5mg), patients lost 34 pounds on average.

How does Zepbound work?

These medications, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, have been around for a while now.  They were initially release just to treat diabetes, but researchers quickly realized that there were significant weight loss benefits as well. They were studied at higher doses for weight loss, regardless of whether the patients had diabetes or not. To learn more about how these medications work, check out our previous article here.

What are the side-effects of tirzepatide?

Like all medications in the GLP-1RA class, there can be side effects including nausea, vomiting, GERD, and diarrhea.  These issues are more prevalent when starting the medication, and usually subside with time. Rarely, thyroid tumors have been reported as well.

Who qualifies for Zepbound?

Patients are eligible to use Zepbound or tirzepatide for weight loss if they have a body mass index of at least 30, or a BMI of 27-30 which weight-related medical issues.  You can check out your BMI here. Like Wegovy, Zebpound/tirzepatide is a one-a-week injection with a tiny needle.

In addition to helping patients lose weight who are trying to avoid weight loss surgery, this medicine can also be used effectively in patients who have already had surgery and have seen some weight regain.

It is anticipated that there will be a shortage of this medication, as we have seen with other medications in this class such as Wegovy.  We anticipate being able to offer compounded tirzepatide through our compounding pharmacy partner beginning some time in December.

If you have any questions for our team about these medications, you can submit them by filling out the Contact Us form at the bottom of the page. Initial consultations with a medical provider and a licensed/registered dietitian are only $199. If you would like to make an appointment, just click on the button now and start your pathway to a healthier holiday season!

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