What is Zepbound: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

How to take Zepbound

• After starting Zepbound, the dose will be increased every 4 weeks to a standard dose that is right for you.

• Take only the dose of Zepbound prescribed by your doctor.

• Zepbound is a clear or slightly yellow liquid. Do not use Zepbound if the liquid is a different color or has particles in it.

• Your healthcare team will show you how to inject Zepbound. Follow their instructions and refer to the medication guide.

• Zepbound is injected under the skin on the same day every week.

• Zepbound may be injected in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate the site of injection with each dose.

• Zepbound may be taken at any time of day, with or without food.

• Use a new needle for each injection. Never share needles with others.

• Store unopened Zepbound pens in the refrigerator in the original carton. Each single-dose pen may be stored at room temperature for up to 21 days.

• Do not freeze Zepbound.

What to do if you miss a dose of Zepbound

• If you miss a dose of Zepbound, take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

• If more than 4 days have passed, skip that dose and take the next dose on the regularly scheduled day.

• If the regular injection day needs to be changed, make sure there are at least three days between doses.

• Do not take two doses of Zepbound to make up for a missed dose.

Zepbound contraindications

Zepbound should not be taken by people who:

• Have a history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC)  or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)

• Have a family history of these conditions

• Are allergic to tirzepatide or any of the other components in Zepbound

• Are pregnant

Zepbound warnings

Zepbound may increase the risk of:

• Thyroid cancer

• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in people who take insulin or other diabetes medications 

• Pancreatitis

• Gallbladder disease

• Kidney injury

• Progression of diabetic retinopathy (eye disease)

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

Tell your doctor if you:

• Are pregnant or may become pregnant

• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

• Have ongoing medical conditions. Especially let them know about current or past:

  • Diabetes and diabetic eye disease

  • Thyroid disease

  • Cancer

  • Pancreas problems 

  • Kidney problems

  • Gallbladder problems

  • Trouble with digestion

  • Depression or other mental health conditions

Keep Zepbound and all medications out of the reach of children.

Zepbound interactions

• Zepbound should not be taken with other medications that contain tirzepatide or other GLP-1 agonists. These medications include:

• Monjauro (tirzepatide)

• Ozempic, Wegovy, or Rybelsus (semaglutide)

• Trulicity (dulaglutide)

• Saxenda or Victoza (liraglutide)

• Bydureon or Byetta (exenatide)

• People who take insulin and sulfonylurea diabetes medications have a higher risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when taking Zepbound. The doses of these medications may need to be adjusted as the dose of Zepbound is increased.

• Birth control pills may not be as effective when taking Zepbound. Because Zepbound may be harmful to a developing fetus, alternative or additional forms of contraception are recommended.

• Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription and over-the-counter medications you take. That includes vitamins, herbs, and supplements. Some interactions make medications more or less effective.