Zepbound® for Weight Loss: Same-day Consultations
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Weight LossGLP-1Zepbound®

Zepbound® for weight loss online

Zepbound® is a GLP-1/GIP agonist medication designed to address weight management. This medication is taken once per week as part of a clinical weight management program, which may help individuals achieve their health and weight goals. Your physician may prescribe Zepbound® vials or pens based on individual circumstances and its availability. 

Can lead to up to 20.9% loss in body weight ¹Once per week injectionPrescriptions for Zepbound® vials through LillyDirect
Am I a Candidate?

*Please note that due to the Zepbound® commercial shortage, specific dose strengths, particularly starter doses, may be unavailable. If Zepbound® is commercially unavailable and listed on the FDA shortage list, our doctors may prescribe compounded tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound®, if deemed appropriate. These compounded medications are prepared by our preferred state-licensed sterile compounding pharmacy partner that complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations. However, compounded tirzepatide, like all compounded drugs, is not FDA-approved and does not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing. Compounded tirzepatide prescriptions are limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, Washington D.C., WY. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion.

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What is Zepbound®, and how does it work for weight loss?

Zepbound® contains tirzepatide, which was approved for weight loss in November 2023. It is currently available in auto-injection pens and single use vials. Single use vials are only available from LillyDirect for cash-pay buyers who aren’t using insurance. This injectable medication is renowned for its dual function on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. Tirzepatide mimics the effects of GLP-1, a long-acting version of a natural hormone that helps people feel full when they eat. It helps reduce portion sizes and feelings of hunger between meals.. It also helps control, slows gastric emptying and helps control blood sugars. 
 
Weight loss medications like Zepbound® require purposeful lifestyle changes, including low calorie nutritious meal plans, regular exercise, and muscle building. Using weight management medications without integrating these changes may only provide temporary effects, rather than long-term results. 


Benefits of Zepbound® include:

 

  • Revolutionary dual mechanism: Zepbound® combines appetite regulation and metabolic enhancement, setting it apart from traditional weight loss approaches. 
  • Effective weight loss results: Potential to experience noticeable changes in your weight within weeks, making Zepbound® an effective solution for those seeking quick results. 
  • Clinically proven: Backed by scientific research, rigorous studies, and clinical trials support tirzepatide's efficacy in weight loss, leading to a weight loss of up to 20.9% total body weight in some individuals, although results may vary.1* 
  • FDA approved to treat moderate to severe sleep apnea in combination with a comprehensive weight loss program. 

 

Committed to tailored weight management solutions, we recognize Zepbound® as an excellent choice for many. However, we want to suggest alternative options for individuals seeking the most suitable treatment. Depending on availability and insurance coverage, our physicians may recommend or prescribe other GLP-1 options: 

  • Compounded tirzepatide: Compounded tirzepatide is authorized as an alternative to Zepbound® only while Zepbound® is listed on the FDA drug shortage list. Now that it is no longer in shortage, compounded tirzepatide can no longer be prescribed. However, Zepbound® vials are now available for cash payment at similar prices in four strengths when prescribed through our preferred, licensed pharmacy: 2.5mg, 5mg, 7.5mg, and 10mg.  

 

  • Wegovy® (semaglutide): Administered through a convenient weekly injection, Wegovy® stands as a leading weight management medication designed to complement a balanced lifestyle. 

Other weight loss medications our doctors may prescribe include: 

 

Availability for compounded tirzepatide is limited to residents in the following states: 
 
Compounded Tirzepatide: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, Washington D.C., WY. 
 
Although compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved, our preferred pharmacy provider complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations.   

 

Zepbound® self-pay options

No insurance needed. *Special offer pricing for first fills and refills is only available through LillyDirect's mail-order pharmacy, and you must make these within 45 days of the previous delivery.

Possible Zepbound® side effects and risks

The side effects of tirzepatide for weight loss are believed to be similar to those of Mounjaro® and other GLP-1s. Potential side effects associated with Zepbound® include:


Potential concerns associated with tirzepatide include:

  • Interactions with birth control: Tirzepatide may decrease the effectiveness of oral hormonal birth control. It is recommended to switch to a non-oral birth control before starting Zepbound®.

  • Pancreatitis: There is a potential risk of pancreatitis associated with Zepbound®.

  • Thyroid tumor: People with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use tirzepatide due to the potential risks of thyroid tumors.

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding: Zepbound® should not be used by those planning to become pregnant within the next 3 months or who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.


Seek medical attention immediately if you experience a serious allergic reaction or severe side effects. If combined with insulin or medications that increase insulin in the body, there may be a possibility of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Research on tirzepatide risks is ongoing. As of now, long-term safety data is not available. Continuous monitoring and research aim to provide a more thorough understanding of the safety profile associated with Zepbound®.

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How to take Zepbound® (tirzepatide for weight loss)

Your doctor will give you instructions on how to take Zepbound®. Zepbound® comes in various doses. This medication usually comes in the form of conveniently packaged, single-dose injection pens. Taking Zepbound® is a straightforward process.3 General instructions may include:

  • Take Zepbound® once weekly in the comfort of your home, with or without food.

  • The single-dose pen simplifies the injection process, eliminating the need to handle a needle directly.

  • Your doctor can help you choose the optimal injection site, such as the upper arm, lower stomach, or upper thigh. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let the skin dry. Rotate injection sites weekly.

  • Remove the safety cap, and place the clear, flat base of the pen against the skin at the chosen site.

  • To begin, turn the lock ring to the unlock position, and hold the purple injection button for 10 seconds.

  • Dispose of the used pen in a designated sharps container.

Zepbound® FAQs

How fast can I expect results with Zepbound®?

Zepbound®'s effects can be seen within a few weeks, varying from person to person.

What lab work is necessary to get a Zepbound® prescription?

Your doctor will order labs for you before prescribing Zepbound®. These will include an obesity lab panel, which measures CMP (sugar, kidney, and liver function), CBC (blood count), lipids (cholesterol levels), TSH (thyroid function), A1C (diabetes), and insulin. Then, your doctor will review your lab results with you to see if you would benefit from a Zepbound® prescription.

How much does Zepbound® cost?

Your monthly cost can vary depending on whether you have health insurance, and if Zepbound® is part of your insurance plan’s formulary. The retail cost of Zepbound® pens without insurance is approximately $1060 per month, depending on the pharmacy. Zepbound® vials offer significant cost-savings compared to the pen.  


Prior authorization is a requirement for many branded weight loss medications to be covered by insurance. Your PlushCare doctor and care team will take care of the prior authorization process on your behalf, which can take several business days. If your request for prior authorization is denied you can still buy Zepbound® pens using a discount card, or Zepbound® vials at a cheaper cost. If you do not have health insurance, Zepbound® vials through LillyDirect are still available for you.  

Is there a way to save on the cost of Zepbound® if I’m paying the cash price?

You can use our in-app Rx price finder as a PlushCare member to find the nearest pharmacy with the lowest cost for your medication. Our in-app Prescription Discount Card saves patients from 7-20% on other GLP-1 medications. 
 
If your insurance plan does not cover the cost of your medications or you plan to pay out of pocket, the vials offered through LillyDirect may be a great option for you. It’s also worth checking the manufacturer's website for coupons that may help you save money. However, it's important to note that these companies have specific coupon eligibility and restriction criteria. Therefore, it is recommended that you review their website and see if you meet the requirements before applying for the coupons.* 
 
For example, the Zepbound® savings card on the Lilly website may help you pay as little as $25 for a 1-month or 3-month supply, with insurance that covers Zepbound®. 
 
*Please note that the manufacturer’s coupons cannot be combined with our Prescription Discount Card savings. You can check with your pharmacy to determine which card or coupon will offer you the most savings. 

 

How do Zepbound® vials differ from Zepbound® auto injection pens?

Zepbound® vials and injection pens contain the same medication, but they differ in their administration and availability: 

 

Administration: Vials require a separate syringe and needle for injection, and injection pens are pre-filled, single-use devices with built-in needles. 

 

Supplies Needed: Using vials will require additional supplies: syringes, needles, and alcohol wipes for sterilization. These are provided along with the medication.

 

Available Doses: Vials and pens are available in all doses.

 

Insurance Coverage: Vials and pens are offered as a "cash pay" option through LillyDirect Pharmacy and are not covered by insurance. Injection pens may be eligible for insurance coverage.

 

How much do Zepbound® single-dose vials cost? 

  • 2.5 mg dose at $299 per month.
  • 5 mg dose at $399 per month.
  • 7.5 mg dose at $449 per month.*
  • 10 mg dose at $449 per month.*

*Special offer pricing for 1st fill and refills made within 45 days of prior delivery are only available through Lilly Direct mail-order pharmacy. 

How does Zepbound ® compare to similar weight loss medications or weight loss surgery?

Based on the results of SURMOUNT-1 trial, Zepbound® is one of the most effective weight loss drugs available. Given that it has two different mechanisms of action, it appears to have a more significant effect on weight and blood sugar than GLP-1 agonist drugs alone, such as semaglutide or liraglutide, which are both currently FDA-approved for sugar and weight control under different trade names. So when comparing tirzepatide vs. semaglutide, liraglutide, or other GLP-1 medicines, it seems to be much more effective.

Half the patients on the 10 mg dose and 57% of those on the 15 mg dose lost more than 20% of their body weight. This number takes many past the weight loss achieved long-term with surgical interventions such as the lap-band.1 It is within the typical ranges achieved long-term with procedures such as the sleeve gastrectomy.

How to get Zepbound® pens or vials online

Zepbound® prescription appointment pricing details

To get a new or refill on your Zepbound® prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.

30 days of free membership

  • Same-day appointments 7 days a week
  • Unlimited messages with your Care Team
  • Exclusive discounts on lab tests
  • Free memberships for your family
  • Cancel anytime

Paying with insurance

$19.99

First month free

+

Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less! We accept these insurance plans and many more:
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Paying without insurance

$19.99

First month free

+

$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

Am I a Candidate?

*If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund. Please note that any medication or lab work costs are not included. Please refer to our refund policy for additional information.

Zepbound® resources

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. New England Journal of Medicine. "Once-Weekly Tirzepatide for Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes." Published in NEJM, Accessed on November 7, 2023 at https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038.

  2. FDA Press Announcement. "FDA Approves New Medication for Chronic Weight Management." Accessed on November 7, 2023 at https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-medication-chronic-weight-management.

  3. Lilly's Zepbound™ Official Website. Accessed on November 7, 2023 at https://uspl.lilly.com/zepbound/zepbound.html#ug.

  4. Lilly Investor News Release. "FDA Approves Lilly’s Zepbound™  for Chronic Weight Management." Accessed on November 7, 2023 at https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fda-approves-lillys-zepboundtm-tirzepatide-chronic-weight.

  5. Zepbound™ Official Website. Accessed on February 26, 2025 at https://www.zepbound.lilly.com/. 
  6. Lilly launches additional Zepbound vial doses and offers new savings for self-pay patients. Accessed on February 26, 2025 at https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lilly-launches-additional-zepbound-vial-doses-and-offers-new 


PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.