41: Zepbound 101: Everything You Need to Know

Zepbound is taking the internet and social media by storm, as it was just approved by the FDA only days ago. This is a revolutionary development for the world of metabolic healthcare, and will affect so many that are struggling with chronic weight management in the future. Since this is so new, a lot of people have a lot of questions about this medication.

So what is Zepbound? Zepbound is also known as Mounjaro, which is used to treat type 2 diabetes, but was not FDA approved for metabolic health care. Zepbound and Mounjaro both contain the medication Trizepatide, which is similar to Semaglutide but has some notable differences. 

One of the major differences between the two is the potential body weight percentage reduction with many previously used orally administered generics, the potential is up to 10% total body weight reduction. With Semaglutide, this percentage increases to 15%. But with Zepobund, the potential is higher, at 20% total body weight reduction. This potential is equivalent to some bariatric surgeries, which makes this a revolutionary development for the world of metabolic health.

How does Zepbound work? Tirzepatide works in two different ways. First, it slows the digestive rate, increasing the length of time in which you experience satiety. This feeling full for longer reduces your ability to comfortably eat as much or as frequently as before. Secondly, it works in your brain, acting centrally to regulate your satiety signaling. This is why so many on Tirzepatide and Semaglutide note huge reductions in “food chatter” or those insatiable, nagging cravings, even when you’re not hungry. This twofold effect produces big, notable changes in eating habits and overall lifestyle.

What are some reasons that I might consider changing from Semaglutide to Tirzepatide? I’ve already mentioned one, which is that the overall body weight percentage reduction is increased on Tirzepatide. So this might be an option to consider if you have a significant amount of body weight to lose. Zepbound is indicated for those with a BMI of over 20%, or lower with additional compounded medical issues. Another reason to consider Zepbound as an alternative to Ozempic, etc. is side effects. Zepbound boasts on average significantly reduced side effects to medications that contain Semaglutide. So if your side effects are significant and causing issues on semaglutide, it might be helpful for you to explore Zepbound as an option. Still another reason that might warrant talking to your physician about making the switch is if semaglutide is no longer effective for you. If you are on the highest dose of Semaglutide, are managing your exercise, nutrition and water effectively, and have still come to a standstill, this may be an indication that Zepbound could be right for you. 

I’m so glad to be able to talk about this as we’re watching these big steps of progress take place in the arena of metabolic health. I am in no way offering medical advice on this podcast and am not recommending Zepbound to anyone here. I am however very excited to be having these conversations and to watch metabolic health care progress forward. If you’re reading this or have listened to this episode and are considering Zepound as a potential option, I would urge you to talk to your physician and find out if this might be an option for you.