Zepbound

What is Zepbound approved to treat?

Zepbound is indicated, combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity, to reduce and maintain reduced body weight in adults with obesity, or with overweight plus at least one weight-related comorbid condition [1]. It is also indicated for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity [1]. The weight-reduction trials used a BMI threshold of 30 or greater for obesity, or 27 to under 30 with a comorbidity for overweight, and both indications are limited to adults [1].

How is Zepbound dosed and how well does it work?

Zepbound starts at 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then increases to 5 mg, with further 2.5 mg increases after at least 4 weeks on each dose, up to a 15 mg maximum [1]. In the 72-week SURMOUNT-1 trial, mean body weight change was -15.0% at 5 mg, -19.5% at 10 mg, and -20.9% at 15 mg, versus -3.1% with placebo [2].

What are the risks of Zepbound?

Zepbound carries a boxed warning: in rats, tirzepatide causes thyroid C-cell tumors, and it is unknown whether Zepbound causes such tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma, in humans [1]. It is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 [1]. The most common side effects, reported in at least 5% of patients, include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation [1].