A Beginner's Guide to Zepbound Weight Loss Injections in the UK

In this article, we'll provide a beginner's guide to Zepbound weight loss injections in the UK. We'll explain what Zepbound is, how it works and how effective it can be for weight loss. We'll also cover whether Zepbound is available to buy in the UK, look at the experiences of those who have tried it and discuss potential alternatives to help you find a weight loss solution that suits your needs.

Key Takeaways

Here are the 5 biggest takeaways from this article about Zepbound:

• Zepbound is a weight loss injection that contains tirzepatide, designed to help individuals with obesity or weight-related health conditions.

• Zepbound is not licensed for use in the UK. The same medication is available in the UK under the brand name Mounjaro.

• Clinical studies have shown that tirzepatide medications can lead to significant weight loss.

• Common side effects of Zepbound include nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain.

• In the UK, alternative weight loss injections include Mounjaro, Wegovy (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide).

What is Zepbound?

Zepbound is a weight loss injection that is designed to help people who are obese or have a weight-related health condition to lose weight. The medication is manufactured and distributed by pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly and Company and works best when used alongside a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise.

Is Zepbound a licensed medication in the UK?

No, Zepbound is not a licensed medication in the UK, meaning you cannot use or obtain it legally if you live there. It should be noted that Zepbound is a US brand name for the medication tirzepatide, which is available in the UK under the brand name Mounjaro.

How effective is Zepbound?

Zepbound has been shown to be an effective treatment for aiding weight loss in adults. In a 72-week study outlined by Eli Lilly, participants taking 5 mg, 10 mg, or 15 mg doses of Zepbound experienced an average weight loss of 15.0% (34 lbs), 19.5% (44 lbs), and 20.9% (48 lbs) respectively. It is important to note that Zepbound should not be used solely for cosmetic weight loss and should only be used to treat obesity or weight-related health conditions.

What is the active ingredient in Zepbound?

The active ingredient in Zepbound is called tirzepatide. Tirzepatide works by mimicking hormones in the body that regulate appetite leading to reduced hunger, increased feelings of fullness and weight loss when used alongside a healthy balanced diet and regular exercise. This is also the active ingredient in another weight-loss medication called Mounjaro.

Is Mounjaro the same as Zepbound?

Yes, Mounjaro and Zepbound are the same. They both contain the active ingredient tirzepatide and work in the same way to aid in weight loss management. The only difference between them is the name and where they are licensed. Zepbound is the brand name used in the United States, while Mounjaro is the name in the UK. Zepbound specifically is not licensed for use in the UK.

What side effects can Zepbound have?

As with all other medications, Zepbound can cause some users to experience side effects.

According to Eli Lilly, the most common side effects of Zepbound are:

• Nausea

• Diarrhoea

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Abdominal pain

• Indigestion

• Reactions at the injection site

It should be noted that these are not all of the possible side effects of Zepbound. Other side effects that have been noticed include feeling tired, allergic reactions, wind, hair loss and heartburn. If you are concerned about any side effects you are experiencing it is recommended to speak to your healthcare provider for advice. 

What warnings does Zepbound come with?

Zepbound comes with several warnings that you need to be aware of if you are interested in using the tirzepatide medication Mounjaro in the UK. Warnings to keep in mind include (VanWert & Johnston, 2024):

Allergic Reactions

Zepbound should not be used by people who are allergic to tirzepatide or any of the listed ingredients in the medication. If you believe you are experiencing an allergic reaction then it is important to seek medical attention urgently.

Thyroid Cancer or Endocrine Conditions

If you or a family member has had medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or a condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome Type 2 (MEN 2) then you should not use Zepbound (tirzepatide).

Suicidal Thoughts or Suicide Attempts

People with a history of suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts should also avoid using Zepbound (tirzepatide).

Pregnancy

Zepbound (tirzepatide) should not be used during pregnancy as the effects on an unborn baby are not fully known. If you are using tirzepatide and become pregnant you should contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Severe Stomach Problems

Zepound (tirzepatide) is not suitable for people with severe stomach issues, such as gastroparesis, as it may worsen their condition.

What experiences have Zepbound users had?

The experiences of Zepbound users will vary from person to person. Some users have reported significant weight loss and satisfaction with the medication, whereas others have had mixed results. It’s important to note that individual responses to medications will vary and that you may experience results that differ from others. You can read reviews and user experiences about Zepbound online from Drugs.com or WebMD. Additionally, we have reviews of Mounjaro, the licensed UK brand name of tirzepatide, from UK Meds customers that you can read on our Mounjaro page.

Which alternative weight loss injection treatments are licensed in the UK?

As previously mentioned, Zepbound is not licensed for usage in the UK. There are weight loss injections that are available in the UK, including one that has the same active ingredient as Zepbound.

Licensed weight loss injections in the UK include:

Mounjaro (Tirzepatide)

Mounjaro contains the same active ingredient as Zepbound but it is licensed for use in the UK. It works by mimicking hormones to regulate your appetite.

Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy contains the active ingredient semaglutide and is also licensed for aiding weight loss in the UK. Semaglutide medications work similarly to tirzepatide to help regulate appetite. 

Saxenda (Liraglutide)

Saxenda is another weight loss injection that is licensed for use in the UK. Saxenda contains liraglutide and is designed for daily use. Liraglutide also helps to regulate appetite to aid weight loss.

Which alternate diabetes injection treatments are licensed in the UK?

There are also alternative injectable medications for treating other conditions, including diabetes. 

Ozempic (Semaglutide)

A popular medication for treating diabetes is Ozempic, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide. Ozempic contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy, however, it is not licensed for treating weight loss in the UK. If you need semaglutide to treat weight loss then you should use Wegovy (provided that it has been recommended by your healthcare provider). 

Which treatment is right for me?

To determine which weight loss treatment is right for you it is essential to consult with your doctor before you use any. Your doctor will be able to determine the safest option for you based on your individual circumstances, medical history and specific needs.

Whichever treatment your doctor recommends, you can get a free private prescription for it at UK Meds, following a successful review of your online consultation medical questionnaire by a registered independent prescriber. They will consider factors such as your BMI, your medical history and current medication that you're taking.

Medically Reviewed by:
Dr. Alexis Missick MBChB. MRCGP
GMC Reference no: 7151419
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Sources

What is Zepbound - Eli Lilly

Zepbound Reviews & Ratings - Drugs.com

Zepbound (tirzepatide): Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing - WebMD