Overview
Tirzepatide is approved, as specific FDA-approved products, for adults with obesity, or overweight with at least one weight-related condition, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is also approved for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Evolo Health offers compounded tirzepatide, which is not FDA-approved and is not equivalent to an approved product.
How it works
Tirzepatide activates both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, hormones involved in appetite regulation and blood sugar control. This helps reduce appetite and food intake.
Potential benefits
- Significant weight reduction in clinical trials alongside lifestyle changes
- Approved treatment for OSA in adults with obesity (FDA-approved tirzepatide products)
- Once-weekly dosing
Individual results vary. Outcomes are not guaranteed.
Who may qualify
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition
- No personal or family history of MTC or MEN 2
- Eligibility determined only by a licensed clinician
Important safety information
Contraindications
- Personal or family history of MTC or MEN 2
- Known serious hypersensitivity to tirzepatide
Warnings & precautions
- Boxed warning: risk of thyroid C-cell tumors seen in rodents
- Pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, hypoglycemia with insulin or sulfonylureas
- Kidney injury from dehydration, severe GI disease, diabetic retinopathy complications, suicidal thoughts
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation
- Abdominal pain, indigestion
- Injection-site reactions, fatigue
Drug interactions
- May reduce effectiveness of oral hormonal contraceptives — use a non-oral or backup method for 4 weeks after starting and after each dose increase
- Insulin and sulfonylureas
Pregnancy
Not recommended during pregnancy. Discuss pregnancy plans with your clinician.
Monitoring
Ongoing follow-up for tolerability, dose escalation, weight, and labs as appropriate.
This summary is not complete. Review the full prescribing information and discuss risks with your clinician.
Treatment process
01
Evaluation
Secure assessment and clinician review.
02
Prescribing
Issued only if clinically appropriate.
03
Fulfillment
Through a licensed pharmacy, subject to availability.
04
Follow-up
Ongoing monitoring and support.
Frequently asked questions
How is tirzepatide different from semaglutide?
Tirzepatide acts on two hormone receptors (GIP and GLP-1); semaglutide acts on GLP-1. Your clinician will help determine which, if either, is appropriate.
Is a compounded version the same as the FDA-approved product?
No. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, have not been reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or quality, and are not equivalent to approved products. They may only be prescribed when legally permitted and clinically appropriate.
Is approval guaranteed?
No. Prescriptions are issued only when clinically appropriate.
