Zepbound for Chronic Weight Management

As of November 2023, Zepbound has been approved by the FDA for chronic weight management. Tirzepatide – the main ingredient in Zepbound – belongs to a class of drugs called dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA).

How Does Zepbound Work?

According to the FDA, roughly 70% of adults in the United States are classified as having obesity or being overweight. Many of these individuals also have weight-related medical conditions. For adults with obesity or overweight, losing 5% to 10% of their body weight through a combination of diet and exercise has been linked to a decrease in the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Tirzepatide works by targeting multiple biological pathways involved in regulating appetite, glucose control, and body weight. GIP and GLP-1 are hormones that are naturally produced in the gut and play important roles in the regulation of glucose metabolism and satiety.

By activating the GIP and GLP-1 receptors, tirzepatide increases insulin secretion, reduces glucagon release, slows down gastric emptying, and promotes a feeling of fullness or satiety. These effects help to reduce appetite, control blood sugar levels, and promote weight loss.

Zepbound is similar to other popular weight management medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, as they are all GLP-1 receptor agonists that are used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, there are some differences between them.

Other medications that belong to the GLP-1 receptor agonist class may contain semaglutide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide as their main ingredient. These medications only activate the GLP-1 receptor, while tirzepatide activates both the GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists.

For this reason, tirzepatide has shown promising results in clinical trials for chronic weight management. In these studies, the medication has led to significant weight loss, improved glycemic control, and reduced cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Eligibility for Zepbound

Zepbound has received approval from the FDA for use in adults who have a body mass index (BMI) of at least 30. It is also approved for individuals with a BMI of 27 or higher if they have another weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or obstructive sleep apnea.

Exercise and a reduced calorie diet are recommended alongside GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) to maximize their effectiveness. This combination helps to further improve insulin sensitivity, promote weight loss, enhance glucose control, and provide overall health benefits.

By incorporating lifestyle changes, individuals can optimize the benefits of GLP-1 RAs for weight management and improved glycemic control.

Access to Zepbound

Zepbound was created by drugmaker Eli Lilly, who has priced it at about $1,060 for a month’s supply. While this is less expensive than other GLP-1s and other forms of tirzepatide (like Mounjaro – priced anywhere from $1,023.04 to $1,351 per injection depending on the state), it is still set at a fairly steep price.

Unfortunately, weight loss medications are frequently denied coverage by insurance companies, and according to current legislation, Medicare does not provide coverage for them. It’s important to discuss insurance coverage with your healthcare provider to find the best course of action for access to Zepbound.

As of recently, Eli Lilly has introduced a copay or discount card program on its website to assist patients in reducing the cost of Zepbound. They have also specified that individuals with commercial insurance may potentially pay as low as $25 for a one-month or three-month supply of Zepbound.

For those covered by commercial insurance without specific coverage for Zepbound, the company states that the cost of a one-month prescription could be as low as $550. To make the medication more affordable, Eli Lilly is actively collaborating with insurers.

The medication is set to hit the market and be available to those eligible by the end of 2023. LifeMD will be offering Zepbound as a GLP-1 option as a part of our comprehensive Weight Management Program.

After answering some questions about your medical history, current medication, lifestyle, and weight loss goals, LifeMD will determine if you pre-qualify for a tirzepatide medication. Then, all you have to do is make an online appointment where you’ll meet face to face with a licensed medical professional to further discuss your eligibility for Zepbound.

Once it is determined that a tirzepatide medication is right for you, a plan will be personalized to best meet your needs.

Dosage and Administration for Zepbound

Zepbound is administered once a week via subcutaneous injection using a pre-filled single-dose pen. Pens are available in various different doses, starting at 2.5 mg/0.5 mL single-dose pen and increasing by 2.5mg per 0.5 mL single-dose up until the 15mg/0.5 mL single-dose pen.

Dosage will be determined by your healthcare provider depending on your medical history, lifestyle, and weight management goals.

Common and Severe Side Effects

Common side effects of Zepbound include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, indigestion, injection site reactions, fatigue, allergic reactions, belching, hair loss, and heartburn. If you experience any unpleasant or ongoing side effects while taking Zepbound, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

More serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and a rare type of thyroid cancer. Before taking Zepbound, it is important to discuss your medical history with a licensed medical professional to determine if you are at risk of any other serious conditions. If necessary, your healthcare provider may recommend that Zepbound is not a suitable weight management medication for you and advise you in another direction.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

While Zepbound can be a helpful tool for weight management, it is important to view weight loss as a comprehensive journey.

Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional are crucial as they monitor your progress, evaluate the effectiveness of Zepbound, and address any concerns or questions you may have. These appointments allow for adjustments to your treatment plan if needed, and provide an opportunity to discuss any hurdles or achievements during your weight loss journey.

If you experience any side effects while using Zepbound, a licensed medical professional can assist you in managing these changes to ensure your safety. Sometimes, seeking guidance and reassurance from a healthcare professional can bring peace of mind as you embark on your weight loss journey.

If it is determined that Zepbound is not suitable for you, there are various other chronic weight management medications that may be a better fit.

LifeMD offers clinical supervision, metabolic testing, and continuous support from licensed healthcare providers to aid you in losing weight and improving your overall health if you are prescribed a GLP-1 medication through our Weight Management Program.

It is essential to remember that weight management is an ongoing process, and continuous support and monitoring are key to achieving success. By maintaining a connection with your healthcare professional, you can optimize the benefits of Zepbound for weight loss and enhance your overall well-being.