From the Guidelines
To switch from Zepbound (tirzepatide) 10ml/0.5ml pen to Wegovy (semaglutide), you should discontinue Zepbound and begin Wegovy at the initial dose of 0.25mg once weekly for the first month, then follow the standard Wegovy titration schedule. This approach is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of gradual dose titration to minimize gastrointestinal side effects 1. The standard titration schedule for Wegovy involves increasing the dose every 4 weeks, starting from 0.25mg weekly, then 0.5mg weekly, 1mg weekly, 1.7mg weekly, and finally reaching the maintenance dose of 2.4mg weekly by the fifth month. Key points to consider during the transition include:
- Do not take both medications simultaneously
- There may be a brief gap between stopping Zepbound and starting Wegovy, as determined by your doctor
- Monitor for side effects during the transition and maintain regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to assess your response to the new medication
- The transition is necessary because these medications work through similar but distinct mechanisms - Zepbound is a GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist while Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist only. According to a recent review on obesity management in adults, semaglutide has been shown to be effective in achieving significant weight loss and improving weight-related comorbidities, with a lower rate of gastrointestinal adverse events compared to liraglutide 1. It is essential to follow the recommended titration schedule and consult with your healthcare provider to create a personalized transition plan, as they will be able to assess your individual response and adjust the plan as needed.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Switching from Zepbound to Wegovy
To switch from Zepbound (tirzepatide) 10ml/0.5ml pen to Wegovy (semaglutide), consider the following points:
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Both Zepbound and Wegovy are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, which work by augmenting hyperglycemia-induced insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon secretion, and reducing calorie intake and body weight 2.
- Dosing and Administration: Wegovy is administered via subcutaneous injection, and the dosing schedule may vary depending on the individual's response to the medication 3.
- Efficacy and Safety: Studies have shown that switching from one GLP-1 receptor agonist to another, such as from dulaglutide to semaglutide, can result in additional reductions in HbA1c and weight without significant changes in adverse effects 4.
- Considerations for Switching: When switching from Zepbound to Wegovy, consider the individual's response to the previous medication, including any adverse effects or efficacy concerns 5.
- Key Points to Consider:
- Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for switching medications.
- Monitor blood glucose levels and adjust the dosing schedule as needed.
- Be aware of potential adverse effects, such as gastrointestinal symptoms, and report them to a healthcare professional if they occur.
- Consider the individual's overall health status and medical history when making the switch.