Zepbound 5 mg/0.5 mL injection

Zepbound 5 mg/0.5 mL injection

 Zepbound® (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly, subcutaneous injectable medication approved 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 dyslipidemia. Used alongside a calorie-restricted diet and increased physical activity, Zepbound supports significant and sustained weight loss.

The 5 mg/0.5 mL injection is the second step in Zepbound’s dose escalation schedule, following the initial 2.5 mg starting dose. This intermediate dose helps the body adjust to the medication before progressing to higher doses for maximum therapeutic benefit.

Mechanism of Action:
Tirzepatide is a dual agonist of GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) and GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptors. By mimicking the effects of both hormones, Zepbound enhances insulin sensitivity, reduces appetite, slows gastric emptying, and lowers food intake—resulting in effective weight reduction and improved metabolic function.

Dosing and Administration:

• Dose: 5 mg once weekly

• Administration: Subcutaneous injection

• Injection sites: Abdomen, thigh, or upper arm (rotate weekly)

• This dose is typically taken for at least 4 weeks after starting with 2.5 mg. Patients may continue escalating the dose based on response and tolerance (up to 15 mg weekly).

Storage Instructions:

• Store refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) until use

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

• Do not freeze or expose to excessive heat or sunlight

Important Safety Information:
Do not use Zepbound if you or a family member has a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It is not indicated for use in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort, particularly during dose escalation. Serious risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and acute kidney injury. Monitor patients closely when using Zepbound in combination with insulin or insulin secretagogues due to the risk of hypoglycemia.

Clinical Use:
The 5 mg dose serves as a transition phase in the dose-escalation protocol. It allows patients to continue building tolerance before reaching higher doses, which are associated with greater weight loss benefits. Treatment should always be personalized based on patient response and clinical judgment.