Brand-new Weight Loss Aid: Zepbound, Now Approved by FDA for Long-term Weight Management
Eli Lilly's latest drug, Zepbound, has received approval from the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes, branded as Mounjaro. Furthermore, the FDA authorized its use for long-term weight control. This marks a significant milestone for a medication often used off-label for weight loss.
Who Can Benefit From Zepbound?
Zepbound is ideal for overweight adults or individuals with a Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeding 30. It is also recommended for people with obesity (BMI 27 or higher) and individuals with weight-related medical conditions, such as hypertension, sleep apnea, or cardiovascular diseases.
How Does Zepbound Work?
Zepbound stimulates the release of Insulin in the body by mimicking two hormones: GLP-1 and GIP. It decreases the user's appetite and slows down digestion after meals, making the user feel full. Medications for weight loss like Semaglutid-based Wegovy from Novo Nordisk primarily target GLP-1.
The medication will be available in six strengths ranging from 2.5 mg to 15 mg and can be obtained on prescription at both retail and online pharmacies, according to a press release by Eli Lilly.
Dosing and Usage Tips
Like other weight reduction drugs, Zepbound is an injection that patients take once a week. Eli Lilly recommends using the medication in conjunction with a calorie-reduced diet and increased physical activity.
Precautions
Eli Lilly urges against combining Zepbound with other similar weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.
Clinical trials showed that higher doses of Zepbound led to an average weight loss greater than 20% over 72 weeks, surpassing the values of other authorized weight loss medications.
Side Effects
Common side effects include gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain. Severe side effects may include thyroid problems and gallbladder problems. Please consult a medical professional for a comprehensive list of potential side effects.
Cost Considerations
Without insurance, Zepbound may cost around $1,060 per month, slightly more than the list price of Mounjaro which is $1,023 per month. The extent of Zepbound's popularity remains uncertain, but Eli Lilly plans to release a savings card for commercial insurance holders, reducing its price for eligible patients to $25 per month.
As the demand for weight loss medications skyrockets, some treatments encounter supply shortages. Currently, Mounjaro remains on the FDA's drug shortage list but is indicated as available for all dosage strengths.
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