GLP-1 weight care

Tirzepatide (Zepbound®) for weight management

Medical review pending · Last updated 2026-11-03

Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injection that acts on two hormone receptors, GIP and GLP-1. If prescribed by a licensed provider, it is used with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

FDA-approved uses of Zepbound®

Chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.
Moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.

How tirzepatide works

By activating both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, tirzepatide reduces appetite and slows stomach emptying. It is available in prefilled pens and in single-dose vials, with doses increased step by step per the FDA-approved label.

What to expect

No specific result can be guaranteed. Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation are the most common side effects, especially during dose increases. Your provider will monitor your progress and tolerability.

Cost

Pricing depends on insurance and on manufacturer self-pay programs, which change often.

Compare: semaglutide (Wegovy®) · tirzepatide vs. semaglutide · Zepbound vs. Wegovy

Important safety information: GLP-1 medicines

This is a summary, not the full prescribing information. Always read the FDA-approved Medication Guide and talk with your prescriber. Full labels: Wegovy® · Zepbound®.

Boxed warning, thyroid C-cell tumors: In rodents, semaglutide and tirzepatide caused thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether they cause these tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans. Do not use if you or a family member have had MTC or if you have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Serious side effects can include: inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gallbladder problems, low blood sugar (especially with insulin or sulfonylureas), kidney problems from dehydration, severe stomach and intestinal side effects, serious allergic reactions, diabetic retinopathy complications (in people with type 2 diabetes), and, with Wegovy®, increased heart rate. Seek care right away for severe stomach pain, signs of an allergic reaction, or a lump or swelling in the neck.
Common side effects: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and decreased appetite.
Anesthesia: Tell your provider before any planned surgery or procedure requiring anesthesia or deep sedation; these medicines can raise the risk of food or liquid getting into the lungs.
Pregnancy: Not for use during pregnancy. Tell your provider if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Tirzepatide may reduce the effectiveness of oral birth control.
Tell your provider about all medicines you take, including other GLP-1 medicines.

Prescription eligibility is determined only by a licensed clinician. Draft ISI for medical and legal review; replace with partner-approved, product-specific ISI before launch.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Zepbound and Mounjaro?

Both contain tirzepatide. Zepbound is FDA-approved for chronic weight management and for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity; Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes.

Is tirzepatide stronger than semaglutide?

In a 2025 head-to-head trial, average weight loss was greater with tirzepatide than semaglutide, but individual responses vary. Your provider will help decide which, if either, fits you.

Can tirzepatide affect birth control pills?

Yes. Tirzepatide can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, especially after starting and after dose increases. Ask your provider about backup or non-oral contraception.

Sources

Sources are listed for reference and do not imply endorsement. Regulatory status can change; check the date above.