Zepbound (tirzepatide) 12.5 mg/0.5 mL – Comprehensive Guide
🔹 Key Facts
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Dosage: 12.5 mg per 0.5 mL (5th step in titration, after 2.5 mg → 5 mg → 7.5 mg → 10 mg).
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Administration: Once-weekly subcutaneous injection via single-use auto-injector pen.
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FDA Approval: For chronic weight management in adults with:
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Obesity (BMI ≥30) or
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Overweight (BMI ≥27) + weight-related condition (e.g., hypertension, prediabetes).
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🔹 Dosing Schedule & Progression
Weeks | Dose | Purpose |
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1–4 | 2.5 mg | Starter dose (tolerance building) |
5–8 | 5 mg | Initial therapeutic effect |
9–12 | 7.5 mg | Intermediate dose |
13–16 | 10 mg | Higher efficacy |
17+ | 12.5 mg | Advanced weight loss (pre-final dose) |
Note:
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Some patients stop at 10 mg or 12.5 mg if goals are met.
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Maximum dose: 15 mg (after 4+ weeks on 12.5 mg, if needed).
🔹 Effectiveness
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Clinical Data (SURMOUNT Trials):
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12.5 mg: Average weight loss of ~20–22% at 72 weeks (with lifestyle changes).
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15 mg: Up to 24% weight loss (highest dose).
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Vs. Wegovy (semaglutide):
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Zepbound’s dual-action (GLP-1 + GIP) may yield 3–6% greater weight loss than Wegovy (GLP-1 only).
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🔹 Side Effects & Management
Common (≥10%) | Less Common (1–10%) | Serious (Rare) |
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Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting | Acid reflux, fatigue, dizziness | Pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, kidney injury |
💡 Pro Tips:
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Reduce nausea: Inject in the thigh (vs. abdomen) and eat bland, low-fat meals.
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Constipation: Increase fiber/water; ask your doctor about stool softeners if needed.
🔹 Storage & Handling
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Unopened Pens: Refrigerate at 2–8°C (36–46°F) – never freeze.
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In Use: Store at room temp (≤30°C/86°F) for ≤21 days.
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