Zepbound uses the same active ingredient (tirzepatide) as Mounjaro®. It’s a dual-action GLP-1/GIP that is approved by the FDA for people with obesity BMI ≥30, or overweight BMI ≥27 plus a weight-related condition, along with diet and exercise changes.

How is Zepbound different from Ozempic® or Wegovy®?

Zepbound and Wegovy are approved by the FDA for weight loss, while Ozempic is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, but can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, if appropriate.

The main difference between these medications is the active ingredient. Ozempic and Wegovy use semaglutide, while Zepbound uses tirzepatide. Tirzepatide is a dual-action GLP-1 and GIP, meaning it works by activating two hormone receptors that regulate your metabolism, helping you feel full faster and longer. In comparison, semaglutide only activates the GLP-1 receptor.  By targeting two hormone receptors, Zepbound curbs hunger and nausea.

What is the difference between Zepbound pens and vials?

Zepbound pens and vials are the exact same FDA-approved medication, but are available in different dosage forms and strengths. This means that when the medication is used in the same dose – whether taken via a vial or pen – it has the same efficacy and side effects.

The primary difference is that the vials are only available in 2.5 mg and 5 mg doses, while the pens include those doses as well as 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg. In clinical trials, patients on the 5 mg dose (maximum dose in single-dose vials) lost an average of 15% of their body weight in a year, while those on the 15 mg dose (maximum dose in single-dose pens) lost an average of 20% in a year.

One other difference is that pens are prefilled, while the vials are administered with a syringe. We provide clear, straightforward instructions and a video walkthrough to help you do this, plus Healthogenics-affiliated providers and are available to help if you have any questions.

Lastly, Zepbound vials can be shipped conveniently and directly to you from the LillyDirect partner pharmacy. The vials are only available when paying cash, and are not eligible for insurance coverage. 

The cost of your medication is not included in your monthly membership fee and will be paid directly to the pharmacy upon approval for treatment by your physician.

What are the side effects of Zepbound?

The most common side effects of Zepbound are: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, indigestion, injection site reactions, feeling tired, allergic reactions, belching/gas, hair loss, and heartburn.

Zepbound may have serious side effects, including possible thyroid tumors. Do not use if you or your family have a history of a type of thyroid cancer called MTC or MEN 2.

Zepbound may cause other serious side effects, including severe gastrointestinal disease, kidney injury, gallbladder disease, inflammation of the pancreas, severe allergic reactions, low blood sugar, complications in patients with diabetic retinopathy, and suicidal thoughts. Zepbound may reduce the efficacy of birth control pills.

Your Healthogenics affiliated provider will work with you to manage any side effects.