Zepbound has a
Brand name: Zepbound
Generic name: Tirzepatide
Drug class: Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonist and Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist
Dosage forms: Prefilled, disposable injection pens or vials
FDA-approved uses: Weight loss and long-term weight management in some overweight and obese adults; moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults with obesity.
Highlights
- Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a prefilled, injectable pen or vial prescribed for weight management in people who meet specific health requirements
- You can get Zepbound prescribed online only after an appointment with a licensed medical provider who can conduct an assessment and determine if this treatment option is appropriate
- Zepbound may cause some side effects and carries several risks. Be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider
According to a survey, approximately
Losing weight isn’t just about physical appearance. In many people, it helps reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, liver diseases, kidney diseases, and mental health conditions. While some people can successfully manage weight through lifestyle changes, others may need weight loss medications such as Zepbound (tirzepatide).
Read on to learn more about this medication, who can receive a prescription, and what you should know about Zepbound before and while taking it.
What Is Zepbound? What Is It Used For?
Zepbound contains the active ingredient tirzepatide and comes as a prefilled, disposable injection pen or vial that’s injected under the skin. It is categorized as a GIP receptor and GLP-1 receptor agonist and helps with weight loss by regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.
Zepbound is FDA-approved for:
- weight loss and long-term weight management in some adults,
- moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in some adults.
Who Qualifies and Who Should Not Use Zepbound?
Zepbound is prescribed, along with increased exercise and a reduced-calorie diet, for weight loss and long-term weight management in adults who:
- have obesity (
a body mass index (BMI) of 30 and higher[4] ), or - are overweight (
a BMI of 27 and higher[4] ) with a weight-related health condition (examples include diabetes and high blood pressure).
For some people, Zepbound may interact with their health conditions or medications. Because of this, they require close monitoring while using Zepbound.
- Serious digestive problems
- Kidney problems
- Pancreas problems
- Diabetic retinopathy (serious eye condition)
- Type 2 diabetes
- Using insulin or sulfonylurea
- Taking birth control pills by mouth
- Mental health conditions, including depression or suicidal thoughts and behaviors
- Planned surgery or procedure requiring general anesthesia
- Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant
- Breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed
Your healthcare provider may also avoid prescribing Zepbound if you have certain health conditions and risk factors.
- A serious allergic reaction to Zepbound or any of its ingredients
- A personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
Before starting Zepbound, talk with your healthcare provider about your medical history. They can help make an informed decision about the best treatment option for you.
How to get a Zepbound prescription online with MEDvidi
Here are the steps to get Zepbound prescribed online at MEDvidi:
Step 1: Sign up and book an appointment
Create an account and fill out basic personal information and the intake form. The intake form contains questions about your symptoms, current and previous medications, allergies, and health history. Once completed, you can schedule a virtual appointment with a qualified healthcare provider at a time that’s best for you.
Step 2: Undergo evaluation and get a treatment plan
During your video consultation, your healthcare provider will review your symptoms, any previous medications you have tried, and your medical history. They will discuss the benefits and risks of starting weight-loss medications and will help determine whether you qualify for Zepbound. They may also recommend lifestyle changes as an alternative or in combination with medications. Keep in mind that not every consultation results in a prescription because treatment decisions are based on your overall health needs.
Based on your weight loss goals, they will work with you to develop an effective plan to help you lose weight and maintain the results long-term. You will receive a personalized plan and information about the next steps.
Step 3: Online prescription and pharmacy fulfillment (if appropriate)
If your healthcare provider determines that weight loss medication is right for you, they can send a prescription electronically to your preferred pharmacy for fulfillment. You’ll be able to track your prescription status in your Personal Portal.
If you get prescribed Zepbound, consider checking your local pharmacy to ensure the medication is in stock. Checking in will help prevent any delays in picking up the medication.
Step 4: Follow-ups and adjustments (every 30 days)
Scheduling and attending regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help ensure the medication is working well for your health condition. Your provider can monitor your response to the medication and review any side effects you may experience. They can adjust your medication and treatment plan based on how effective it is in helping you achieve your goals.
Zepbound Dosage and How It’s Taken
Dosage for Weight Loss and Maintenance
Your healthcare provider will choose the Zepbound dosage for weight loss that’s right for you. Commonly recommended
However, your healthcare provider may start you at 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks. Afterwards, they will increase the dose slowly over time to ensure tolerability. The maximum recommended dosage is 15 mg once weekly.
How It’s Taken
Your provider will explain how you should inject Zepbound, so you can give it to yourself. Training is recommended before you start using Zepbound.
In addition to the training received from your healthcare provider, the following tips will help you effectively give yourself the medication:
- Inject the medication under the skin of your stomach area or thigh.
- If injecting into the back of the upper arm, have another person give you the injection.
- Rotate the injection site each time you give a dose.
- Avoid injecting into areas with skin changes, including bruises, scars, or thickened skin.
- Avoid using the same injection sites as other injection medications.
When not in use, Zepbound should be stored as recommended on the pharmacy label and prescribing information.
Zepbound Cost, and How to Save on It
The cost of Zepbound can vary widely depending on your insurance plan, the pharmacy you use, and the dosage prescribed. In some cases, your insurance may require prior authorization before covering the cost of Zepbound. Information commonly requested by prior authorizations includes weight, BMI, allergies, previous medications tried, and medical conditions. Your MEDvidi healthcare provider can help you with providing the necessary documentation. They can also help you navigate the next steps in cases where your claim is denied.
Without insurance, Zepbound can be expensive. Here are a few options to help you save:
- Use lower-cost Zepbound vials, check LilyDirect for availability.
- Apply for the Zepbound savings program (eligibility not guaranteed).
When searching for options to save on the cost of Zepbound, be cautious of any sites offering a “free online prescription of Zepbound.” Prescription medications typically aren’t available for free. The cost of that prescription may refer to a promotional discount or be offset by membership sign-up or consultation costs. Always check whether the company works with licensed healthcare providers and pharmacies.
How Effective Is Zepbound for Weight Loss?
There is sufficient research validating the efficacy of Zepbound for weight loss in adults. As per
Note that the effectiveness depends on several factors aside from dosage, such as individual response to the medication, adherence to the treatment plan, and lifestyle changes. Despite its remarkable effectiveness, Zepbound can only yield sustained weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
What Helps Zepbound Work Better
Zepbound works best when combined with healthy habits. Here are some recommended lifestyle changes to use with Zepbound for the best weight loss outcomes:
Within the first 4 weeks
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to ensure you are getting enough nutrition through your diet.
- Drink water regularly throughout the day to ensure you are hydrated.
- For nausea, avoid foods that are known to trigger these symptoms for you. This may include spicy, greasy, or very sweet foods.
- Start a diary of your weight loss journey. Consider logging your weekly weight, symptoms experienced, food consumption, and physical activity.
Throughout your treatment
- Aim to consume protein-rich foods regularly with each meal.
- Slowly add fiber-rich foods to your meals as well.
- Start adding exercise and physical activity to your daily routine and increase as tolerated.
Contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing the following:
- Worsening or persistent nausea, vomiting, or other digestive problems.
- Signs or symptoms of dehydration, including very dark urine.
- Any other symptoms or side effects that are new, worsening, or bothersome.
- Concerns about Zepbound dosing, safety, and effectiveness.
Side Effects and Risks
Common side effects
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Injection site reactions
- Indigestion
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Hair loss
These side effects are usually mild and go away with time as the body starts adjusting to Zepbound injections. However, there are some serious side effects to watch for, and promptly inform your healthcare provider if you experience them. Examples include:
- Possible thyroid cancer (boxed warning). Symptoms include:
- a lump or swelling in your neck,
- trouble swallowing,
- hoarse voice,
- difficulty breathing.
- Hypersensitivity reactions (serious allergic reaction).
- Serious digestive problems, which may lead to dehydration and acute (sudden) kidney problems.
- Acute (sudden) gallbladder problems, including gallstones.
- Acute (sudden) pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
- Severely low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).
- Diabetic retinopathy in people with type 2 diabetes.
- Increased heart rate.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension).
Zepbound Alternatives
If Zepbound isn’t the best choice for your circumstance, there are various other weight loss medications that MEDvidi healthcare providers can prescribe if deemed appropriate. Examples include:
- Wegovy (semaglutide): A possible option when a medication that works similarly to Zepbound is desired. This medication can also be used for noncirrhotic
metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)[6] . Currently, it’s available as both injections and oral tablets. - Contrave (naltrexone/bupropion): May be an option for people looking for an oral medication.
- Phentermine: May be an option for people looking for an oral medication that’s used
short-term[7] .
Each medication has its own benefits and risks, so it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. When you see a provider for online weight loss treatment at MEDvidi, they will determine which medication or another solution is best suited to your health profile and needs.
How to Choose a Legitimate Online Provider
Finding a legitimate provider to help with your weight loss is key to ensuring you receive quality treatment. Here are some tips to help you choose a trustworthy service:
Legitimacy Checklist
- Medical Evaluation by a Licensed Healthcare Provider: Evaluation and treatment should be completed by a licensed healthcare provider.
- Transparent Pricing: Pricing and cost associated with evaluation, treatment, follow-up, and medication should be clearly listed.
- Clear Refill Policy: Information about how refills are handled, including an explanation of the refill process, should be available for review.
- Verified and Licensed Pharmacy Sourcing: Licensed US pharmacies should supply and dispense the prescribed medications. Details about which pharmacy was used to fill your prescription should be listed and available.
- No “Prescription-Free” Claims: Weight loss medications require a prescription to legally dispense the medication. Zepbond isn’t legally available prescription-free.
Possible Scam Signals
- Selling Zepbound Without a Prescription: Zepbound is only available through a prescription and must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider.
- Overseas Shipping Without verification: Using healthcare and pharmacy services outside the US, especially without verification, may be unsafe. They don’t follow the same regulations as services offered in the US.
- Unclear Prescriber Credentials: Always verify whether your prescriber is licensed to practice in your location and make sure they have proper credentials.
Summary
Zepbound can be an effective option to help with weight loss and weight management long-term in some adults qualifying for it. When combined with lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and a reduced-calorie diet, Zepbound provides the most benefits. Talk with healthcare providers at MEDvidi today to determine the weight loss treatment plan that’s right for you.
FAQs
Do I need a prescription for Zepbound?
Can you buy Zepbound online?
Yes. If you have a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional, you can buy Zepbound online or in person from pharmacies. Some pharmacies offer delivery directly to your doorstep.
How do I get Zepbound online with insurance?
You can get Zepbound online with insurance by first scheduling a consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. If Zebound is appropriate, they can electronically send the prescription to your preferred online pharmacy, which can check your insurance to determine coverage. Insurance coverage of Zepbound varies. Some plans may require prior authorization to cover Zepbound costs.
Who can prescribe Zepbound?
Licensed healthcare providers, such as primary care physicians, geriatricians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, are qualified to prescribe Zepbound both in person and online. They can write a prescription only after thoroughly evaluating a patient’s medical parameters, complete medical history, current weight specifications, and weight goals to determine the need and appropriateness of Zepbound.
Is Zepbound the same as Mounjaro?
Both Zepbound and Mounjaro contain the same active ingredient, tirzepatide. However, the main difference is their use. Zepbound is approved for weight loss. Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes.
How is Zepbound different from Ozempic and Wegovy?
Zepbound, Ozempic, and Wegovy are all GLP-1-based medications. However, Zepbound contains the active ingredient tirzepatide. Both Wegovy and Ozempic contain semaglutide. Zepbound and Wegovy are both approved for weight loss. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes.
What lab work is necessary to get a Zepbound prescription?
Is Zepbound available at pharmacies?
Yes, Zepbound is available at pharmacies and can be purchased by prescription. If you get prescribed Zepbound online, a healthcare provider will electronically send the prescription to the pharmacy of your choice. If you have any issues with filling a telehealth prescription for Zepbound, please contact MEDvidi’s Care Team to find a solution.
Is Zepbound covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage of Zepbound depends on your insurance plan. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization to cover costs, and MEDvidi offers assistance with it.
How do you take tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide is available as a prefilled injection pen or vial, which is injected under the skin into the thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. It is recommended to rotate the injection site with each use to avoid any adverse reactions.
Does Zepbound need to be refrigerated?
It’s recommended to store Zepbound in the refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Zepbound single-dose pen and single-dose vial can also be stored at room temperature up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 21 days. Multi-dose vial or single-patient-use KwikPen may be stored at room temperature up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 30 days or after completing 4 weekly doses. Always follow the storage instructions provided with the medication.
In which states is MEDvidi’s weight loss program available?
MEDvidi’s weight loss program is available in multiple US states: Arizona (AZ), California (CA), Colorado (CO), Florida (FL), Georgia (GA), Idaho (ID), Illinois (IL), Indiana (IN), Kansas (KS), Kentucky (KY), Louisiana (LA), Maine (ME), Maryland (MD), Massachusetts (MA), Michigan (MI), Minnesota (MN), Missouri (MO), Montana (MT), Nebraska (NE), Nevada (NV), New Mexico (NM), New York (NY), North Carolina (NC), Ohio (OH), Oregon (OR), Pennsylvania (PA), Tennessee (TN), Texas (TX), Virginia (VA), Vermont (VT), Washington (WA), Wisconsin (WI), Wyoming (WY). To get connected with a provider, sign up.
