What is Zepbound – the injectable medicine that help with obesity?
If you’re reading this, you probably want to know, “What is Zepbound, the injectable medicine for obesity that everyone talks about?”
Initially, Zepbound (also known as tirzepatide) was made for diabetes. The drug took the weight loss world by storm when, in trials, people lost an average of 26% of their body weight in 88 weeks. [1]
Due to high demand and manufacturers seeing a golden opportunity, the FDA approved Zepbound for weight loss in November 2023.
In this article, we’ll explore Zepbound, how it works, and its benefits. By the end, you’ll have a good understanding of this new option in weight management.
☝️ Throughout the article, you’ll see numbers in brackets that link to scientific studies and trusted sources across the web. I urge you to follow them (open in new windows) for further reading.
Obesity And Its Prevalence Worldwide
Obesity is a significant health challenge that affects millions around the globe. It’s a state in which excess body fat accumulates to an extent that may have a detrimental effect on health.
When your Body Mass Index (BMI) — a measurement obtained by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters — is 30 or higher, you’re considered obese.
Being overweight, however, refers to a BMI between 25 and 29.9.
The world is seeing a striking increase in obesity rates across various countries, irrespective of age, gender, or socioeconomic status.
For instance, the prevalence of obesity has nearly tripled worldwide since 1975. [2]
In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults were overweight, of which over 650 million were obese, according to the World Health Organization. [3]
Weight-related medical problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers, often accompany obesity.
What Is Zepbound?
Zepbound, also known by its scientific name tirzepatide, is a newly approved injectable medication by Eli Lilly and Company, approved for chronic weight management in adults and designed to combat obesity.
This medication has undergone rigorous review and has shown significant efficacy in weight management.
It belongs to a class of drugs that activates incretin hormone receptors, specifically GLP-1 (Glucagon-like Peptide-1) and GIP (Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide).
These receptors play a crucial role in regulating appetite and food intake, which are key components in addressing obesity.
How Does Zepbound Work?
Zepbound works by simulating the effects of natural incretin hormones, which help to regulate your blood glucose levels and decrease appetite.
By activating the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, Zepbound enhances your body’s response to food, making you feel fuller quicker and satisfied for longer periods, thus promoting weight loss.
This effect, combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, can be a potent tool for weight loss and management.
Who Is Zepbound For?
Zepbound is intended for individuals – both men and women – who are diagnosed with obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related health issue.
Zepbound is designed as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including a healthier diet, increased exercise, and ongoing medical care.
Zepbound’s Effectiveness
Zepbound, exhibited impressive results in Phase 3 trials. It was part of the SURMOUNT-1 clinical program, which highlighted Zepbound’s ability to significantly reduce body weight in adults dealing with obesity.
In these trials, the medication’s potential to aid in weight loss proved to be a promising advancement compared to existing medications like Semaglutide, known under brand names such as Mounjaro and Wegovy. [4]
For example, a systematic review and meta-analysis of four randomized controlled trials showed that tirzepatide treatment resulted in significant reductions in HbA1c, fasting serum glucose, and body weight.
The improvement in HbA1c levels was maintained at weeks 26 and 40, and the safety profile of tirzepatide was acceptable with low rates of hypoglycemia and serious adverse events. [5]
☝️ HbA1c stands for Hemoglobin A1c. It is a blood test that measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months.
How much does Zepbound cost per month?
Zepbound, has a list price of approximately $1,060 for a month’s supply. (Yikes).
However, this cost can vary depending on whether you have commercial insurance and the terms of your coverage. For individuals with insurance that covers Zepbound, the Savings Card program may significantly reduce this cost.
Eligible patients may only need to pay as low as $25 for a 1-month or 3-month prescription. These programs are designed to make treatment more accessible, although eligibility requirements will apply.
How to get Zepbound?
To get a prescription for Zepbound, you can either see your doctor face-to-face or have a chat with them online through telehealth. In the appointment, they’ll talk to you about your health history and weight loss goals to see if Zepbound is right for you. They might also do some blood tests to check out how your body’s doing.
If it turns out that Zepbound is a good fit, your doctor will write you a prescription and may suggest changes in diet or exercise that work best for you.
After getting your prescription, you can pick up Zepbound from any regular pharmacy or even order it from one that delivers by mail. As of December 2023, there are six different strengths of Zepbound available at these pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you’ll find answers to common inquiries about Zepbound, the injectable medication used for weight management in adults with obesity.
Final Take
Zepbound is a prescription medicine designed to tackle one of the most challenging health issues you may face: managing your weight.
If you’re an adult living with obesity or excess weight, this injectable medicine may help you lose weight and maintain that weight loss.
It’s intended for chronic weight management and is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. Zepbound isn’t a standalone solution; it’s part of a broader approach to address weight-related medical problems through lifestyle change and medication.
The medicine is a combination of two incretin hormones that contribute to the regulation of food intake and blood sugar: GIP and GLP-1.
These hormones can decrease appetite and increase energy expenditure, making it easier for you to stick to your weight loss plan.
It’s important to know that while Zepbound can be a valuable tool, its effectiveness also depends on your commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
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