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The side effects of Zepbound
Considering Zepbound for weight loss? It’s an FDA-approved option for those with obesity or weight-related conditions, but, like all prescription drugs, it has side effects. Here’s an in-depth look at what you can expect, the precautions to keep in mind, and how to manage any side effects you may experience.
Boxed warning: Risk of thyroid cancer
One of the most important precautions with Zepbound is its boxed warning for thyroid cancer risk. Animal studies showed an increased risk of thyroid tumors with tirzepatide, Zepbound’s active ingredient, although it's unclear if the same risk applies to humans. Due to this, Zepbound is not recommended for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2).
What you can do
Before starting Zepbound, inform your doctor about any thyroid conditions or family history of thyroid cancer. Watch for symptoms like neck lumps, trouble swallowing, or hoarseness, and report them to your healthcare provider right away.
More common side effects of Zepbound
Zepbound can cause several common side effects that are generally mild and tend to go away as your body adjusts to the medication. These may include:
Nausea
Diarrhea
Constipation
Abdominal pain
Indigestion
Injection site reactions (like bruising or redness)
Fatigue
Heartburn
If any of these side effects bother you, talk with your doctor, who can suggest ways to help manage them.
Mild side effects of Zepbound
Some mild side effects that Zepbound users may experience include:
Bloating, gas, or burping
Dizziness
Mild allergic reactions (such as skin rash or itching)
Hair loss
These side effects are often manageable and temporary, but if they persist, reach out to your doctor.
Serious side effects of Zepbound
While serious side effects are less common, it’s important to be aware of them and seek help if they occur. Serious side effects of Zepbound may include:
Severe digestive issues (such as persistent nausea or diarrhea)
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas, with symptoms like severe stomach or back pain)
Gallbladder problems (such as gallstones, with symptoms like upper stomach pain, jaundice, and fever)
Kidney problems (often related to dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea)
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) (watch for dizziness, confusion, or sweating)
Vision changes (particularly for those with type 2 diabetes)
Depression or suicidal thoughts
If you experience any serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. In case of an emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.
Side effect specifics
Risk of Thyroid Cancer
As mentioned, Zepbound
carries a boxed warning for thyroid cancer risk based on animal studies. Symptoms to watch for include:
Lump or swelling in the neck
Difficulty swallowing or breathing
Persistent hoarseness
What Might Help
Inform your doctor of any thyroid-related symptoms or family history of thyroid cancer before starting treatment. They may perform tests to monitor your thyroid health.
Injection Site Reaction
Since Zepbound is an injection, mild skin reactions can occur at the injection site, including redness, itching, or bruising.
What You Can Do
Injection site reactions usually go away on their own. For more severe reactions, try over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen for pain or antihistamines for itching. Consult your doctor if reactions become bothersome.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, Zepbound can cause allergic reactions, from mild to severe. Symptoms may include:
Skin rash or itching
Swelling in the face, lips, or throat
Difficulty breathing
What You Can Do
For mild reactions, your doctor may suggest antihistamines or topical creams. If a serious allergic reaction occurs, seek emergency medical help immediately.
Suicide Prevention
If you experience any thoughts of self-harm or suicide, reach out for support. The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available at 988 for immediate help in the United States. Talking to your healthcare provider about any changes in mood is also important during treatment.
Precautions for Zepbound
Other Precautions
Zepbound may not be suitable if you have:
Kidney problems
Severe digestive issues (like gastroparesis)
A history of pancreatitis
Diabetic retinopathy
Depression or suicidal thoughts
Discuss your health history with your doctor before starting Zepbound to determine if it's safe for you.
When to Talk with Your Doctor
When starting Zepbound, maintain open communication with your doctor about any side effects. Keep notes on symptoms, when they occur, and how they impact your daily life. This can help your healthcare provider adjust your dosage or recommend ways to manage symptoms effectively.
FAQs about Zepbound
Q: How do Zepbound's side effects compare with Wegovy’s?
A: Both Zepbound and Wegovy are weight-loss drugs and have similar digestive side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Both drugs also carry a boxed warning for a potential thyroid cancer risk.
Q: Does Zepbound cause long-term side effects?
A: Long-term side effects haven’t been reported in Zepbound studies. However, talk with your doctor if you’re concerned about the long-term use of the medication.
Q: Can I drink alcohol while on Zepbound?
A: There are no known interactions between alcohol and Zepbound. However, consult your doctor to determine how much alcohol is safe to consume during treatment.
Q: Is Zepbound safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A: Zepbound isn’t recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the fetus. It’s also not known if it’s safe while breastfeeding. If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor for alternative weight-loss options.
FAQs about Imbue
Q: What is Imbue?
A: Imbue provides virtual direct-to-consumer weight-loss services, focusing on helping patients achieve their goals through personalized plans, including lifestyle guidance and medication support. Our program includes an initial assessment, regular check-ins, and ongoing support, and emphasizes sustainable lifestyle changes alongside medications like Zepbound and Wegovy for those who qualify.
Q: What is included in Imbue’s weight loss service?
A: Imbue offers a monthly subscription priced at $49.99, which includes personalized support and guidance on weight management, separate from medication costs.
Q: Does Imbue offer medications like Zepbound or Wegovy?
A: Imbue utilizes LillyDirect and NovoCare to offer customers discounted Zepbound and Wegovy, priced from $349 to $499 monthly.
