Zepbound (tirzepatide) 

Zepbound is prescribed for weight loss and long-term weight management in adults with either:

• a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher (obesity)
• a BMI of 27 or higher (overweight) and a weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, high cholesterol, or obstructive sleep apnea

Zepbound is prescribed along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise.

Zepbound helps you lose weight by reducing your appetite. The drug also slows down digestion, so after eating you feel fuller sooner and for longer. These effects help you consume fewer calories, which can help with weight loss and long-term weight management.

It’s important to note that your doctor will likely not prescribe Zepbound if you:

• take other medications containing tirzepatide (the active ingredient* in Zepbound), such as Mounjaro
• take similar glucagon-like peptide-1 medications, such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) or liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)
• take any other weight loss products, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or herbal products
• have had pancreatitis (inflammation of your pancreas) before

* An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.

Like most drugs, Zepbound may cause mild or serious side effects. The lists below describe some of the more common side effects that Zepbound may cause. These lists don’t include all possible side effects.

Keep in mind that side effects of a drug can depend on:

• your age
• other health conditions you have
• other medications you take
• your dosage

Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more about the potential side effects of Zepbound. They can also suggest ways to help reduce side effects.

Mild side effects

Here’s a list of some of the mild side effects that Zepbound can cause. To learn about other mild side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist or read Zepbound’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects of Zepbound that have been reported include:

• nausea and vomiting
• constipation
• burping
• diarrhea
• abdominal pain
• heartburn or indigestion (upset stomach)
• gas
• hair loss
• fatigue (low energy)
• dizziness
• injection site reactions, such as a skin rash, bruising, or itching
• mild allergic reaction*

Mild side effects of many drugs may go away within a few days to a couple of weeks. But if they become bothersome, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Allergic reaction” section below.

Serious side effects

Serious side effects from Zepbound can occur, but they aren’t common. If you have serious side effects during your Zepbound treatment, call your doctor right away. But if you think you’re having a medical emergency, you should call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects of Zepbound that have been reported include:

• severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, which could lead to dehydration and kidney problems
• gallbladder problems, such as gallstones
• pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• low blood sugar
• boxed warning: risk of thyroid cancer*
• severe allergic reaction†
• suicidal thoughts or behaviors‡

* For more information, see the “What should be considered before starting Zepbound?” section below.
† To learn more about this side effect, see the “Allergic reaction” section below.
‡ This side effect was not reported in studies of Zepbound, but it occurred in studies of weight loss drugs similar to Zepbound.

ALLERGIC REACTION

Some people may have an allergic reaction to Zepbound.

Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:

• skin rash
• itchiness
• flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)

A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include swelling under your skin, usually in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet. They can also include swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat, which can cause difficulty breathing.

Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to Zepbound. But if you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.