Tirzepatide causes thyroid C-cell tumors in rats. It is unknown whether Zepbound causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in humans. Zepbound is contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC and in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Indication
Zepbound® (tirzepatide) is a glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management in adults with obesity, or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.
Important safety information
Zepbound may cause serious side effects, including:
Possible thyroid tumors, including cancer. Tell your provider if you get a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Severe stomach problems, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea that may lead to dehydration and kidney problems.
Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Stop using and call your provider right away if you have severe upper-abdominal pain, with or without vomiting.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially when used with insulin or a sulfonylurea.
Serious allergic reactions. Get medical help right away for swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing, severe rash, fainting, or rapid heartbeat.
Acute gallbladder disease, including gallstones and inflammation of the gallbladder.
Vision changes in people with type 2 diabetes.
Depression or thoughts of suicide. Contact your provider for any mental health changes.
Pulmonary aspiration during general anesthesia or deep sedation. Tell anesthesia providers about Zepbound use before any surgery.
Do not use Zepbound if you
Or any of your family members have ever had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
Have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
Have had a serious allergic reaction to tirzepatide or any of the ingredients.
Most common side effects
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation
Stomach pain, indigestion, bloating, gas, burping
Injection-site reactions, fatigue
Allergic reactions, hair loss, heartburn (GERD)
Before starting Zepbound, tell your provider if you
Have or have had problems with your pancreas, kidneys, or gallbladder
Have severe stomach problems such as gastroparesis or trouble digesting food
Have type 2 diabetes and a history of diabetic retinopathy
Are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
Use oral contraceptives — tirzepatide may reduce their effectiveness; talk to your provider about backup contraception
Are taking other prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, or herbal products
Reporting side effects
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to the manufacturer or to your NowYou care team.
Important
This summary does not include all information about this medication. It is not a substitute for the full Prescribing Information or for talking with your healthcare provider. Please read the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide before starting treatment, and discuss any questions with your provider.
Full prescribing information
Always read the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide before starting treatment.
This safety summary is provided for educational purposes and does not replace the full Prescribing Information, Medication Guide, or professional medical advice. Always discuss benefits, risks, and alternatives with your licensed provider.