From the Guidelines
Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist that should be used with caution and under close medical supervision, as it has potential benefits for weight management and glycemic control, but also carries risks of gastrointestinal side effects, pancreatitis, and other adverse effects, as noted in the 2025 standards of care in diabetes 1. When educating patients about Zepbound, explain that it works by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and food intake, helping them feel fuller longer. The medication starts at a low dose and gradually increases as tolerated. Patients should inject Zepbound subcutaneously, rotating injection sites each week.
- Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain, which typically improve over time.
- Patients should follow a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity while taking Zepbound for optimal results.
- The medication requires careful consideration of potential interactions with other medications, and patients should inform their provider about all medications they take.
- Patients should monitor for rare but serious side effects like severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of allergic reaction, and contact their healthcare provider immediately if these occur.
- Zepbound is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and its use should be individualized based on the patient's medical history and risk factors, as noted in the 2020 standards of medical care in diabetes 1.
- The dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist class has been shown to have potential benefits for cardiovascular risk reduction, as demonstrated by studies of semaglutide and other GLP-1 receptor agonists 1.
From the Research
Patient Education Regarding Zepbound (Tirzepatide)
- Zepbound, also known as tirzepatide, is a medication used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and weight management 2, 3, 4.
- Patient education is crucial to inform individuals about the potential benefits and side effects of tirzepatide, including gastrointestinal adverse events such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea 2, 5.
- Studies have shown that tirzepatide can lead to significant weight reduction and improvements in glycemic outcomes, but may also cause gastrointestinal symptoms 2, 3, 5, 4.
- It is essential to educate patients on how to manage these side effects and to monitor their response to the medication 5.
- Additionally, patients should be informed about the potential benefits of tirzepatide on muscle composition, including reductions in muscle fat infiltration and changes in muscle volume 6.
Key Points for Patient Education
- Tirzepatide is a medication that can help with weight reduction and improve glycemic outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
- Common side effects of tirzepatide include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Patients should be monitored for these side effects and educated on how to manage them.
- Tirzepatide may also have benefits on muscle composition, including reductions in muscle fat infiltration and changes in muscle volume.
- Patient education and monitoring are crucial to ensure the safe and effective use of tirzepatide 2, 3, 5, 4, 6.