Zepbound 7.5 mg/0.5 mL injection

Zepbound 7.5 mg/0.5 mL injection

 Zepbound® (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injectable prescription medication 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 type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol. It is used alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to support long-term weight loss.

The 7.5 mg/0.5 mL injection is one of the intermediate doses in the Zepbound titration schedule, used after patients have tolerated the initial doses (2.5 mg and 5 mg) to continue progressive dose escalation toward higher maintenance doses.

Mechanism of Action:
Tirzepatide is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics two key gut hormones—glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)—to enhance satiety, slow gastric emptying, reduce food intake, and improve insulin sensitivity. These effects work together to promote sustained weight loss and improved metabolic outcomes.

Dosing and Administration:

• Dose: 7.5 mg once weekly

• Route: Subcutaneous injection

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

• Patients typically advance to 7.5 mg after at least 4 weeks at the 5 mg dose, based on individual response and tolerability.

Storage Instructions:

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

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

• Do not freeze or expose to direct heat or sunlight.

Important Safety Information:
Zepbound should not be used in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). It is not indicated for the treatment of type 1 diabetes.

Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort—most often occurring during dose escalation. Rare but serious adverse effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and kidney injury. Monitor blood glucose closely when used with insulin or other antidiabetic drugs.

Clinical Use:
The 7.5 mg dose is part of a gradual titration strategy that helps patients minimize gastrointestinal side effects while moving toward an effective maintenance dose. Doses may be adjusted over time (up to 15 mg weekly) based on weight loss response and tolerability.