Zepbound, known generically as tirzepatide, gained FDA approval in late 2023 as a medication for weight loss. Understanding the correct Zepbound dosage is crucial for both new and existing patients, especially given current supply challenges. This guide provides essential information on Zepbound dosages, availability issues, and what to do if you’re facing difficulties obtaining your prescription.
Understanding Zepbound Dosages
Zepbound is available in six different dosages, ranging from a starting dose to a maximum maintenance dose. These dosages are administered weekly and are designed to gradually increase to help minimize side effects and maximize effectiveness. The available Zepbound dosages include:
- 2.5 mg: This is the starting dose, primarily intended for initiating treatment and dose titration.
- 5 mg: A subsequent dose in the titration schedule, often used after the 2.5 mg starting dose.
- 7.5 mg: Another titration dose, used as part of the step-up approach to reach a therapeutic dose.
- 10 mg: A higher dose, often considered within the maintenance dosage range for many patients.
- 12.5 mg: A higher titration dose for patients who may need further dose escalation.
- 15 mg: The highest available dose, intended as a maximum maintenance dose for some individuals.
It’s important to note that the 2.5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 12.5 mg doses are specifically indicated for dose titration. According to prescribing guidelines and due to supply constraints, these titration doses are typically intended for short-term use, generally limited to about one month (4 doses).
Navigating Zepbound Availability and Shortages
Currently, Zepbound is listed on the FDA’s drug shortage list. Most dosages, with the exception of the 2.5 mg starting dose, are experiencing “limited availability through Q2 2024,” which extends to the end of June. Some reports suggest that these shortages could potentially persist into 2025. Patients across the country are reporting significant difficulties in filling their Zepbound prescriptions, particularly for the 5 mg and 7.5 mg doses.
These shortages are due to a combination of high demand for this effective weight loss medication and ongoing supply chain issues. It’s crucial for patients to be aware of these challenges when planning or continuing their Zepbound treatment.
Strategies for Patients Facing Zepbound Shortages
If you are a new patient considering starting Zepbound, it might be prudent to wait until supply issues improve. Alternatively, you could discuss starting Wegovy, a related medication for weight loss, with your healthcare provider. While Wegovy has also experienced shortages in lower doses, supply has shown signs of improvement recently.
For patients already taking Zepbound who are trying to refill their prescriptions, be prepared for potential delays and difficulties. You may need to contact multiple pharmacies to check for availability. Unfortunately, healthcare providers often do not have access to real-time pharmacy stock information and are limited in their ability to assist with locating doses beyond sending the initial prescription. It is generally the patient’s responsibility to find a pharmacy with Zepbound in stock and arrange for prescription transfer if necessary.
Given the limitations on titration doses (2.5 mg, 7.5 mg, and 12.5 mg), and the current supply issues, healthcare providers are facing challenges in refilling these specific dosages for extended periods. Repeated requests for prior authorizations for these titration doses are increasingly being denied by insurance providers, further complicating access.
Options for current Zepbound patients facing shortages include:
- Temporarily stopping medication: For non-diabetic patients, abruptly stopping Zepbound is not considered harmful. However, depending on the duration off the medication, restarting may necessitate a temporary dose reduction and re-titration.
- Switching to Wegovy: Discuss transitioning to Wegovy with your healthcare provider as a potential alternative while Zepbound supplies are constrained.
- Extending dose intervals: To stretch existing supply, consider spacing out Zepbound doses to every 10 days instead of every 7 days, but consult your doctor before making any changes to your dosage schedule.
It’s also important to be aware that Mounjaro, while containing the same active ingredient (tirzepatide) as Zepbound, is specifically indicated for diabetes management. Mounjaro is also facing significant supply constraints, making switching between Zepbound and Mounjaro impractical due to availability issues and differing FDA indications.
Insurance Coverage and Zepbound Access
It is ultimately the patient’s responsibility to verify if Zepbound is covered under their specific insurance plan formulary. If Zepbound is excluded from your plan’s coverage, your healthcare provider’s options to assist you are limited. They can provide a letter of medical necessity to request coverage from your employer or insurance carrier, but they cannot handle individual coverage appeals.
For further information and resources:
- ZEPBOUND Website: https://zepbound.lilly.com/
- Lilly Direct Program Support: 1-800-LillyRx (1-800-545-5979)
- FDA Drug Shortages List: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/drug-shortages
Navigating Zepbound dosage and availability in the current climate requires patience and proactive communication with your healthcare provider and pharmacy. Staying informed and exploring alternative strategies will help you manage your weight loss journey effectively despite these challenges.
