Pros
Convenient weekly dosing
Works well with healthy lifestyle modifications
Potentially lowers blood pressure and reduces cholesterol
- Weight Loss
- GLP-1
Zepbound™
Zepbound™ for weight loss online
Discover the transformative potential of Zepbound™, the first GLP-1/GIP medication designed to address weight management effectively. Taken once a week, this version of tirzepatide for weight loss presents a promising option for individuals looking to achieve their health and weight goals. Your physician may prescribe Zepbound™ based on individual circumstances and its availability. Due to a national shortage, your doctor may propose compounded tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Zepbound™) as an alternative treatment.*
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Can lead to up to 20.9% loss in body weight (1)
Once a week injection
Addresses both weight and blood sugar management
*Please note that the Zepbound® shortage may impact certain doses. However, our doctors can still prescribe compounded tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Zepbound®) if it’s a good fit for you. Prescriptions for compounded tirzepatide are currently available to residents in the following states: AZ, CO, DC, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, ND, NE, NH, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, TN, TX, UT, WA, WY. Although compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations. Compounded tirzepatide is available as an alternative to Zepbound® doses in shortage only as long as they remain on the FDA drug shortages list. Compounded tirzepatide prescriptions are sent to our partner pharmacy and are not available for insurance coverage. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion.
What is Zepbound™, and how does it work for weight loss?
Zepbound™ contains tirzepatide which was approved for weight loss in November 2023. This injectable medication is renowned for its dual function on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptors. As a GLP-1 medication, tirzepatide mimics the effects of GLP-1, a natural hormone crucial in regulating glucose and appetite. Its dual-action function helps with weight loss by slowing gastric emptying, promoting a sense of fullness, and balancing blood sugar levels.
Weight loss medications like Zepbound™ require purposeful lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and a balanced diet. 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.
Rapid weight loss results: Experience noticeable changes in your weight within weeks, making Zepbound™ an effective solution for those seeking quick results.
Clinically supported: Backed by scientific research, rigorous studies, and clinical trials support tirzepatide's efficacy in weight loss, leading to a weight loss of up to 48 lbs in some individuals. (1)
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 individual preferences, our physicians may recommend or prescribe other GLP-1 options:
Compounded tirzepatide: Due to ongoing shortages, compounded tirzepatide may be suggested as an alternative to branded Zepbound™ while it remains on the FDA drug shortages list. Although compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider operates according to applicable federal and state laws, as well as FDA standards.
Wegovy® (semaglutide): Administered through a convenient weekly injection, Wegovy® stands as a leading weight management medication designed to complement a balanced lifestyle.
Semaglutide: Due to shortages, compounded semaglutide may be prescribed as an alternative to branded Wegovy® as long as it remains on the FDA drug shortages list. Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with pertinent federal and state laws and FDA regulations.*
Other weight loss medications our doctors may prescribe include:
Xenical® (orlistat): This medication prevents the breakdown and absorption of dietary fats.
Contrave® (naltrexone/bupropion): This convenient once-daily tablet aids in weight loss by promoting satiety.
*As of 4/4/2024, availability for compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide is limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IA, KS, MA, MO, MT, NH, NM, ND, OH, OR, PA, TN, TX, UT, WA, and WY. Compounded semaglutide is also available in CA. Although compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide are not FDA-approved, our pharmacy provider complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations.
What are the pros and cons?
Zepbound™
Cons
Long-term safety data not yet known
Risk of injection site reactions
Associated with potential gastrointestinal side effects
Anticipated 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™.
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 if you meet the eligibility criteria for a Zepbound™ prescription and the drug is part of your insurance plan’s formulary. The cost of Zepbound™ without insurance is approximately $1060 per month, depending on the pharmacy.
Prior authorization is a requirement for many branded weight loss medications to be covered by insurance. Your PlushCare physician 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 or you do not have health insurance, you can still buy the medication in full cash.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, it's 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 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™ online
Step 1
Book an appointment to discuss Zepbound™.
During your first visit, your PlushCare doctor will review your medical history and health goals.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor online about your weight management goals.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer. Lab work is required, and they’ll send an order to your preferred lab. Once your results are available, your doctor will review them with you at the second visit and discuss treatment options.
Step 3
Pick up your Zepbound™ medication, if prescribed.
Prescriptions are provided based on eligibility and safety. Our physicians may prescribe medications, help you set diet and exercise goals, and monitor your weight loss progress. Continue to meet with your doctor every four weeks in the beginning, and then as needed, based upon your individual goals.
Zepbound™ pricing details
How it works
To get a new or refill on your Zepbound™ prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
Copay
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
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:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$16.99/month
First month free
Visits
$129
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
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
Book an appointment
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Our popular weight loss services
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
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.
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.
Lilly's Zepbound™ Official Website. Accessed on November 7, 2023 at https://uspl.lilly.com/zepbound/zepbound.html#ug.
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.
Zepbound™ Official Website. Accessed on November 7, 2023 at https://www.zepbound.lilly.com/.