Tirzepatide (Zepbound) Dosage Chart: A Simple Guide
Zepbound is a prescription medication designed to help with weight loss and manage conditions like obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. It contains tirzepatide, a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces appetite and slows digestion.
Understanding the Zepbound dosage chart is key to using it safely and effectively. This article explains the dosing schedule, strengths, administration tips, and more in simple language.
What Is Zepbound?
Zepbound is an injectable medication approved by the FDA for weight management in adults with obesity (BMI of 30 or higher) or those who are overweight (BMI of 27 or higher) with weight-related health issues, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure.
It’s also used to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. The drug works by mimicking hormones that control hunger and digestion, helping you feel full longer. Zepbound is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased exercise for best results.
How Does Zepbound Work?
Zepbound activates GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors in the body. These hormones regulate appetite, slow stomach emptying, and increase insulin release. This leads to reduced calorie intake and gradual weight loss. Clinical trials, like SURMOUNT-1, showed patients on Zepbound lost an average of 35.5 to 52 pounds over 72 weeks, depending on the dose.
Zepbound Dosage Chart Overview
The Zepbound dosage chart outlines a gradual increase in dosing to help your body adjust and minimize side effects like nausea. It starts with a low dose and increases over weeks based on your response and tolerance. The goal is to reach a maintenance dose that balances effectiveness and comfort. Below is a detailed look at the dosing schedule.
Starting Dose
Zepbound starts at 2.5 mg injected once weekly for 4 weeks. This low dose helps your body get used to the medication. It’s not meant for long-term use but serves as an introductory phase. Your doctor will monitor how you feel during this time.
Dose Escalation
After 4 weeks, the dose typically increases to 5 mg once weekly for another 4 weeks. If tolerated well, your doctor may raise it by 2.5 mg increments every 4 weeks. Possible doses include 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and up to a maximum of 15 mg. Each step allows your body to adapt.
Maintenance Dose
The maintenance dose is usually 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg once weekly, depending on your needs. For weight loss, 15 mg is often the target, but some patients achieve results with lower doses. For obstructive sleep apnea, 10 mg or 15 mg is commonly recommended. Your doctor will choose the smallest effective dose.
Zepbound Dosage Chart Table
The table below summarizes the Zepbound dosage chart for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea:
| Phase | Dosage | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Dose | 2.5 mg weekly | 4 weeks | Helps body adjust |
| First Increase | 5 mg weekly | At least 4 weeks | Begins weight loss effects |
| Optional Increases | 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg weekly | At least 4 weeks per dose | Adjusts based on response |
| Maintenance Dose | 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg weekly | Ongoing | Sustains weight loss or OSA benefits |
This chart is a general guide. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
Available Forms and Strengths
Zepbound comes as a liquid solution in two forms: single-dose prefilled pens and single-dose vials. Both are injected under the skin (subcutaneously). The available strengths are:
- 2.5 mg/0.5 mL
- 5 mg/0.5 mL
- 7.5 mg/0.5 mL
- 10 mg/0.5 mL
- 12.5 mg/0.5 mL
- 15 mg/0.5 mL
Prefilled pens are convenient for home use, while vials require a syringe and needle, which aren’t included. Your doctor will show you how to use either form.
How to Administer Zepbound
Zepbound is injected once weekly, at any time of day, with or without food. You can inject it into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate the injection site each week to avoid irritation. If using a vial, use a 1 mL syringe to measure the 0.5 mL dose accurately.
Steps for Injection
- Wash your hands and clean the injection site with alcohol.
- If using a pen, attach a new needle and prime it as instructed.
- If using a vial, draw 0.5 mL into a syringe.
- Pinch the skin and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle.
- Inject the dose slowly, then remove the needle and dispose of it safely.
Your doctor or pharmacist can demonstrate the process. Always check the solution for clarity—it should be colorless or slightly yellow.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it within 4 days (96 hours) of the scheduled time. If more than 4 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take the next one as planned. Never take two doses at once. You can change your dosing day if needed, as long as there’s at least 3 days (72 hours) between doses.
Factors Affecting Your Dosage
Your doctor will tailor your Zepbound dosage based on several factors. These include how well you respond to the medication, any side effects you experience, and your overall health. For example, if you have significant weight loss at 5 mg, you may not need a higher dose. If side effects like nausea are bothersome, your doctor might slow the dose increase.
Common Side Effects
Zepbound can cause mild side effects, especially during dose increases. These often include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Injection site reactions
Most side effects fade within days to weeks. Eating smaller, healthier meals can help manage digestive issues.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare but possible. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Severe stomach pain (possible pancreatitis)
- Signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Symptoms of thyroid tumors (lump in neck, trouble swallowing)
Zepbound carries a boxed warning for the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, based on animal studies. It’s not recommended for those with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
Tips for Using Zepbound Safely
To get the most from Zepbound, follow these tips:
- Stick to your dosing schedule to maintain steady effects.
- Pair Zepbound with a balanced, reduced-calorie diet.
- Increase physical activity, like walking or light exercise, as advised.
- Stay hydrated to help reduce side effects like constipation.
- Tell your doctor about all medications you take, as Zepbound may affect oral drugs like contraceptives.
Zepbound delays gastric emptying, which can impact how oral medications are absorbed. Women using oral contraceptives should use a non-oral method or add a barrier method for 4 weeks after starting Zepbound and after each dose increase.
Who Should Not Use Zepbound?
Zepbound isn’t suitable for everyone. Avoid it if you:
- Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN 2
- Are allergic to tirzepatide or any Zepbound ingredients
- Have had pancreatitis
- Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (stop Zepbound if pregnancy occurs)
- Take other tirzepatide-containing drugs (like Mounjaro) or GLP-1 agonists (like Ozempic)
Your doctor will review your medical history to ensure Zepbound is safe for you.
Zepbound’s Effectiveness
Zepbound has shown strong results in clinical trials. In the SURMOUNT-1 trial, patients on 5 mg lost an average of 35.5 pounds, those on 10 mg lost 48.9 pounds, and those on 15 mg lost 52 pounds over 72 weeks.
For obstructive sleep apnea, 42% of patients had no or mild sleep apnea after a year of treatment. Results vary based on adherence to diet, exercise, and dosing.
Cost and Accessibility
Zepbound’s cost varies depending on insurance and pharmacy. Eli Lilly offers a savings card for eligible patients, and single-dose vials (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) are available through LillyDirect Self Pay Pharmacy Solutions for as low as $499 for certain doses. Check with your doctor or pharmacist for financial assistance options.
Summary
Zepbound is a powerful tool for weight loss and managing obstructive sleep apnea when used with diet and exercise. The Zepbound dosage chart starts at 2.5 mg weekly, increasing gradually to a maintenance dose of 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg, based on your needs.
Available as prefilled pens or vials, it’s injected once weekly under the skin. Follow your doctor’s guidance, monitor side effects, and maintain a healthy lifestyle for the best results. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure Zepbound is right for you.
FAQ
What is the starting dose of Zepbound?
The starting dose of Zepbound is 2.5 mg injected once weekly for 4 weeks. This helps your body adjust to the medication. Your doctor will then increase the dose based on your response.
How often do I take Zepbound?
Zepbound is injected once weekly, at any time of day. You can take it with or without food. Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) each week.
What happens if I miss a Zepbound dose?
If you miss a dose, take it within 4 days of the scheduled time. If more than 4 days have passed, skip it and take the next dose as planned. Never double up doses.
Can I change my Zepbound dosing day?
Yes, you can change your dosing day if needed. Ensure at least 3 days (72 hours) between doses. Talk to your doctor for guidance on adjusting your schedule.
What are the common side effects of Zepbound?
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and injection site reactions. These often lessen over time. Eating smaller meals can help manage digestive issues.
