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Weight Loss GLP-1 Zepbound®
Weight Loss GLP-1 Zepbound®

Zepbound® common side effects

Zepbound® is a newer medication that shows promise of helping people lose weight.  Zepbound® works by controlling appetite and working with the body to manage weight similar to other popular weight loss drugs. If you are considering Zepbound, here is what you might need to know about the possible side effects.

PlushCare Content Team
Written by PlushCare Content Team
Eugene Tutko
Medically reviewed by Eugene Tutko, MD
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*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, WA, WV, Washington D.C., WY. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. 

Common side effects of Zepbound

Zepbound® may cause a range of side effects. Fortunately, most people will experience only mild or moderate reactions. Among the common side effects:

Nausea

Nausea occurs because of the way Zepbound® works within the digestive system. To avoid or reduce nausea, patients can try eating smaller, more frequent meals. It may also be helpful to avoid spicy foods, or meals high in fat. Nausea typically fades as one’s body adjusts to the medication.1

Diarrhea or constipation

Digestive disorders such as these are also common. Although these issues typically resolve with time, drinking plenty of water and adding fiber intake often helps control these side effects. Over-the-counter remedies may be useful, but patients should always consult a doctor before adding new drugs.2

Fatigue

Some users say they feel tired while taking Zepbound®. This may be due to changes in altered blood sugar levels or the body’s metabolic response to the drug. Getting enough rest and managing stress can help counteract this.3

Headaches

Some patients report headaches, usually when starting Zepbound®. Chronic headaches should be checked with a doctor to make sure there are no other issues causing them.4

 

These side effects are typically controllable and often diminish over time. But if any issues worsen or persist, talk to a doctor. 

When to contact a doctor

  Side Effects Action
Mild Nausea, tiredness, mild digestive distress  Wait a few days or weeks; see a doctor if symptoms persist or quality of life deteriorates
Severe or persistent Abdominal pain, kidney problems, severe allergic reactions  Seek care immediately

 

Potentially serious side effects

People experience few serious side effects when using Zepbound®, but they can occur.  It is important that patients know the warning signs. 

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas is one of the more serious risks linked to Zepbound®. Caused by an inflamed pancreas, pancreatitis can cause acute belly pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Any patient with these symptoms should seek immediate medical care right away because pancreatitis is life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Kidney issues

There have been reports of kidney issues in some patients taking Zepbound®. Symptoms such as reduced urine output, swelling in the legs, or persistent tiredness could indicate a kidney problem. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent further complications.4 

Heart problems

Although fairly rare, some Zepbound® users have seen altered heart rhythms and other heart-related symptoms. Patients who experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or an erratic heartbeat should consult a doctor.

Severe allergic reactions

Although it is rare, some Zepbound® patients may have a serious allergic reaction. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, and breathing trouble. Any of these symptoms is a potential medical emergency and should be treated as such.5 

Long-term side effects

Because Zepbound® is a relatively new medication, it is still not clear what its long-term effects could be. Here is what we know so far:

Metabolic changes

Zepbound® changes how the body processes and stores fat, effects that could have an impact on a patient’s long-term metabolic health. Studies are underway that will help us understand how these changes could impact insulin sensitivity or glucose tolerance.6 

Digestive health

Occasionally, Zepbound® users may experience long-term digestive problems, such as chronic constipation or diarrhea. In some cases, patients also contract irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). There is definitive evidence that links Zepbound® to long-term issues, patients should report any persistent problems.6

Hormonal balance

Because Zepbound® regulates appetite, researchers are interested in determining whether in can impact hormones related to hunger, such as leptin and ghrelin. We are still learning about the long-term effects of Zepbound®. Meanwhile, it is important that its users get regular check-ups and talk with a doctor about potential health changes.7 

Severe allergic reactions

Although it is rare, some Zepbound® patients may have a serious allergic reaction. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness, and breathing trouble. Any of these symptoms is a potential medical emergency and should be treated as such.5 

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Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer. Often, 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 and discuss treatment options.
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Step 3

Follow up with your doctor to discuss a prescription if you qualify.

Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. If medication is prescribed, it will be sent to your pharmacy of choice.

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Sources:

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

  1. Healthline. Zepbound: Mild to Serious Side Effects and How to Manage Them. Accessed on September 12, 2024, at https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/zepbound-side-effects. 
  2. Medical News Today. Zepbound side effects: What they are and how to manage them. Accessed on September 15, 2024, at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-zepbound-side-effects#more-common-side-effects. 
  3. Rise Science. Does Zepbound Make You Tired? Yes, Sleep Doctor Explains Why. Accessed on September 18, 2024, at https://www.risescience.com/blog/does-zepbound-make-you-tired. 
  4. Drugs.com. Zepbound Side Effects: Common, Severe, Long Term. Accessed on September 20, 2024, at https://www.drugs.com/sfx/zepbound-side-effects.html. 
  5. DiabeticMe. Exploring Zepbound: Navigating Side Effects For A Safe Journey. Accessed on September 22, 2024, at https://diabeticme.org/learning-center/health-guides/zepbound-side-effects/. 
  6. WebMD. How Zepbound Works for Weight Loss. Accessed on September 25, 2024, at https://www.webmd.com/obesity/zepbound-weight-loss. 
  7. Medical News Today. New GLP-1 weight loss drug Zepbound approved by FDA: What to know. Accessed on September 28, 2024, at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/zepbound-explained-glp-1-weight-loss-drug-fda-approval#Comparing-Zepbound-with-Mounjaro,-Wegovy,-and-Ozempic. 



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