From the Research
No specific lab monitoring is required for Zepbound (tirzepatide) dosage titration in most patients. Zepbound is typically initiated at 2.5 mg subcutaneously once weekly for the first month, then increased to 5 mg weekly for the second month, with subsequent increases of 2.5 mg every 4 weeks as tolerated until the target dose is reached (maximum 15 mg weekly). While routine lab monitoring is not mandated during titration, it's reasonable to check baseline kidney function, liver enzymes, and lipase levels before starting therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions. Patients with severe renal impairment, a history of pancreatitis, or liver disease may require more careful monitoring. The gradual dose escalation schedule is designed to minimize gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which are the most common adverse effects. Rather than lab monitoring, clinical assessment of tolerability and side effects is the primary focus during dose titration of Zepbound.
Key Considerations
- Baseline kidney function, liver enzymes, and lipase levels should be checked before starting therapy, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions 1.
- Patients with severe renal impairment, a history of pancreatitis, or liver disease may require more careful monitoring.
- The gradual dose escalation schedule is designed to minimize gastrointestinal side effects.
- Clinical assessment of tolerability and side effects is the primary focus during dose titration of Zepbound.
Monitoring Recommendations
- No specific lab monitoring is required for Zepbound dosage titration in most patients.
- Baseline lab tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing conditions, such as kidney or liver disease.
- Clinical assessment of tolerability and side effects is the primary focus during dose titration of Zepbound.