Zepbound 2.5 mg/0.5 mL injection

Zepbound 2.5 mg/0.5 mL injection

 Zepbound® (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly, subcutaneous injection used for chronic weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) who have at least one weight-related condition such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol. Zepbound is part of a comprehensive weight loss plan that includes a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

The 2.5 mg/0.5 mL injection is the starting dose in the Zepbound treatment regimen. It is designed to help the body gradually adjust to tirzepatide and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects before increasing to higher maintenance doses.

How It Works:
Tirzepatide is a dual GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist. It works by enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing appetite, delaying gastric emptying, and lowering food intake. These mechanisms lead to effective weight loss and improved metabolic control.

Dosing and Administration:

• Dose: 2.5 mg once weekly

• Route: Subcutaneous injection

• Sites: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm (rotate sites each week)

• This dose is used for the first 4 weeks to initiate therapy. Patients then transition to higher doses (e.g., 5 mg, 7.5 mg, etc.) based on tolerance and clinical goals.

Storage Instructions:

• Store in a refrigerator at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until first use.

• Can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F or 30°C) for up to 21 days.

• Do not freeze. Protect from direct light and heat.

Important Safety Information:
Do not use Zepbound if you or a family member has a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN 2. It is not indicated for patients with type 1 diabetes or those with severe gastrointestinal disease.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort, especially when initiating or increasing the dose. Rare but serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and hypoglycemia when used with other diabetes medications.

Clinical Role:
Zepbound 2.5 mg is the initial dose to help minimize GI side effects before titrating to higher doses. Long-term success with Zepbound depends on continued lifestyle support and appropriate dose escalation under a healthcare provider’s supervision.