Weight loss can be a challenging journey for many individuals, with numerous factors influencing success, including diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits. While traditional methods such as diet and exercise remain cornerstones of weight management, medications like Zepbound (generic drug tirzepatide) offer additional support to assist in weight loss efforts.
Also, see our blog Ozempic for weight loss
Understanding Zepbound:
Zepbound is an injectable medication taken once a week. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for individuals who are obese (BMI 30 kg/m2 or greater), or who are overweight (BMI 27 kg/m2 or greater) with at least one weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, or cardiovascular disease. It works by activating two receptors of hormones secreted from the intestine, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), to reduce appetite and food intake. By targeting these receptors, Zepbound helps to regulate hunger signals, decrease appetite, and increase feelings of fullness after meals. This leads to overall decreased calorie intake, resulting in weight loss. Zepbound is typically prescribed in addition to a healthy diet and physical activity.
Effectiveness of Zepbound:
Clinical studies have shown effectiveness of Zepbound in promoting weight loss. Key findings include:
Significant Weight Reduction: In studies, individuals taking Zepbound in combination with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity experienced greater weight loss compared to those receiving placebo. Therapy with Zepbound may be considered successful if patients experience a 5% weight loss compared to baseline weight after 16 weeks of treatment.
See our Weight Management Drug Comparison blog
Improvement in Blood Sugar: Tirzepatide is also marketed by the brand name Mounjaro. Mounjaro is FDA approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Therefore, Zepbound, which is also generic tirzeptatide, can improve blood sugar control and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Considerations for Use:
While Zepbound may be an effective weight loss medication, there are several important considerations to keep in mind:
Prescription Requirement: Zepbound is available by prescription only and should be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It is not suitable for everyone and may not be appropriate for individuals with certain medical conditions or risk factors.
Monitoring: Individuals taking Zepbound should be monitored regularly by their healthcare provider to assess treatment response, monitor for side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to their medication regimen.
Side Effects: Common side effects of Zepbound may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and indigestion. These side effects are usually mild and transient but may be bothersome for some individuals.
Conclusion:
Zepbound may be an effective medication option for individuals who are overweight or obese who are seeking further progress in their weight loss journey when weight loss goals have not been achieved with diet and exercise alone. It is important to approach Zepbound as part of a comprehensive weight management plan that includes a healthy balanced diet, regular physical activity, and behavioral changes. By working closely with a healthcare provider and adopting a comprehensive approach to weight loss, individuals can maximize their chances of reaching a healthy weight and achieving overall long-term improvements in their health and well-being.
Resources:
1) ZEPBOUND® (tirzepatide) Injection [package insert]. Indianapolis, IN: Eli Lilly and Company; 2024.
2) https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-medication-chronic-weight-management
3) Jastreboff AM, Aronne LJ, Ahmad NN, et al. Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2022 Jul 21;387(3):205-216.
