Zepbound is the most recent FDA-approved medication for weight loss. Due to its unique dual-agonist approach, research has shown that it is the most effective weight loss medication.
If you are currently taking Wegovy for weight loss, you may be considering switching from Wegovy to Zepbound.
This blog provides the ultimate guide on safely switching from Wegovy to Zepbound and answers other frequently asked questions about this transition.
What’s the Difference Between Wegovy and Zepbound?
Zepbound and Wegovy are effective weight-loss medications for many people. Both reduce your calorie intake by working on your hunger, appetite, and food cravings. They use the same but slightly different methods to achieve this effect.
Wegovy is a member of a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It works similarly to GLP-1, a naturally occurring gut hormone that affects both your gut and the brain’s appetite center. This causes reduced cravings, increased feelings of fullness, and decreased appetite.
Like Wegovy, Zepbound acts like GLP-1 to provide these effects. However, it also mimics glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), a second gut hormone. As a result, Zepbound is considered a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist. GIP and GLP-1 work together to produce additive effects.
Another difference between Zepbound and Wegovy is how they are dosed. Both medications are administered subcutaneously once weekly. The amount you inject each week, however, will vary based on the medication you are taking. Zepbound and Wegovy dosages are gradually increased every 4 weeks to reduce the possibility of gastrointestinal side effects.
The starting dose for Wegovy is 0.25 mg once weekly for 4 weeks. The dosage is then increased to 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 1.7 mg at 4-week intervals. If tolerated, the recommended maintenance (and maximum) dosage is increased to 2.4 mg weekly.
The starting dose for Zepbound is 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks. The dosage is then increased to 5 mg once a week. Some people may maintain the 5 mg dosage over time. It can be increased to 10 mg or 15 mg per week at 4-week intervals if necessary.
Why Consider Switching from Wegovy to Zepbound?
You may consider switching from Wegovy to Zepbound due to the following reasons:
Availability issues
The increasing demand for Wegovy and Zepbound has led to shortages; however, Zepbound (tirzepatide) may be more readily available now. While some semaglutide dosages are in short supply, as of mid-August 2024, the FDA states that all tirzepatide strengths are currently available. This makes Zepbound a viable alternative for those affected by supply constraints.
Effectiveness for weight loss
While Wegovy has proven to be highly effective for weight management, research has shown that Zepbound leads to more weight loss. By targeting two key hormones—GLP-1 and GIP—Zepbound may enhance appetite regulation and metabolic improvements, potentially leading to greater weight loss in some people.
In a trial comparing the two weight-loss medications, participants who used tirzepatide lost an average of 5.9% of their body weight in three months, while those who took semaglutide lost 3.6%. After a year, body weight decreased by 15.3% with tirzepatide and 8.3% with semaglutide. If you’re not losing weight on semaglutide or you’ve hit a plateau with Wegovy, Zepbound can be worth a try.
Cost
While both medications are pricey, tirzepatide is about $300 less per month based on retail prices without insurance. Zepbound costs $1,059.87 for a month’s supply, while Wegovy costs $1,349.02 for the same period. Switching could save you money if cost is an issue.
Side effects
Both medications have similar gastrointestinal side effects, like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and some patients may tolerate one treatment better than the other. Usually, these side effects disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. Some research shows that tirzepatide causes these side effects more frequently. Your healthcare provider can help determine which medication aligns better with your body’s needs.
Diabetes
While both medications promote weight loss and control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, Zepbound’s mechanism may offer added benefits. Research has shown that its dual action helps regulate blood sugar levels more effectively than single-agonist treatments like Wegovy.
How to Safely Switch from Wegovy to Zepbound
Switching from Wegovy to Zepbound should be done under medical supervision. This is essential to ensure your safety, the switch is medically acceptable, and you’re advised of the benefits and risks of transitioning.
Your healthcare provider should offer you tailored advice on dosage and administration, monitor your reaction to Zepbound, and help you manage any side effects. The best way to ensure Zepbound is a safe and effective drug for you is to have regular check-ups with your doctor.
Your healthcare provider should advise you on the starting dosage of Zepbound. If you are currently using Wegovy or Saxenda, it is not recommended that you continue taking your GLP-1 prescription after beginning Zepbound.
Managing Side Effects: What to Prepare for when Switching from Wegovy to Zepbound
Transitioning from Wegovy to Zepbound may bring about some side effects as your body adjusts to the new medication. Like Wegovy, Zepbound may cause some side effects.
However, some patients report milder gastrointestinal side effects with Zepbound due to its dual-action mechanism. Some common side effects to expect with Zepbound include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Heartburn
- stomach pain
To manage these side effects, start with the dose recommended by your healthcare provider and increase gradually as advised. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also help, especially if you avoid greasy or spicy foods. Staying hydrated is also essential. Sip water throughout the day to ease gastrointestinal discomfort.
It’s also important to prioritize a balanced diet rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and engage in regular physical activity.
Zepbound Availability and Where to Get It
The Drug Shortages website, managed by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), states that tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound, is not currently in shortage. You should get all Zepbound strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, and 15 mg. However, remember that supply varies by area, so you might still struggle to fill your prescription at your local pharmacy.
All of Zepbound’s dosages are technically available, as are Mounjaro’s, which has tirzepatide as an active ingredient and is offered in the same dosage strengths.
Zepbound is a prescription-only medication, meaning you must consult a licensed healthcare provider to get it. Your provider will assess your medical history, weight loss goals, and overall health to determine if Zepbound suits you.
Zepbound is available at most major online pharmacies, such as Amazon Pharmacy or GoodRx, which also offer convenience and, in some cases, cost savings.
Specialized weight loss clinics, such as NP2GO, are also excellent options for obtaining Zepbound. NP2GO focuses on personalized care and can guide you through the entire process, from getting your prescription to a customized coaching routine that helps you start lifestyle changes prescribed with Zepbound, like diet and physical activity. NP2GO also guides you on how to inject Zepbound, offers telehealth consultations, and can deliver the medication to your door.
FAQs About Switching from Wegovy to Zepbound
Can you take Wegovy and Zepbound together?
No, you should not take Wegovy and Zepbound together. Both medications belong to the same class of drugs (GLP-1 receptor agonists) and work similarly to promote weight loss. Using them simultaneously increases the risk of severe side effects, including nausea, low blood sugar, and gastrointestinal issues. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
Can I switch back to Wegovy after trying Zepbound?
Yes, you can switch back to Wegovy after trying Zepbound, but it’s important to do so under your healthcare provider’s guidance. They will assess your response to Zepbound and recommend an appropriate transition plan to minimize side effects and ensure the effectiveness of your treatment.
How long does it take for Zepbound to show results after switching?
The time it takes to start seeing results from Zpbound after switching from Wegovy may vary. Some patients may notice weight loss or decreased appetite within the first few weeks of switching to Zepbound. However, noticeable results may be seen after 2 to 3 months of regular use. Individual outcomes, however, differ greatly and are not solely dependent on the drug. Your starting weight, diet, physical activity, and metabolic rate all have a significant role.
How NP2GO Can Help You Switch to Zepbound
Switching from Wegovy to Zepbound doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At NP2GO, our experienced team will guide you every step of the way. We make the process seamless, from personalized consultations to creating a safe transition plan. If you’re ready to start your journey with Zepbound, schedule your consultation with NP2GO today and take the next step toward achieving your weight loss goals!