FDA-APPROVED BRAND
Zepbound Dose Calculator and Titration ScheduleActive ingredient: Tirzepatide
Quick answer: Zepbound (tirzepatide) titrates from 2.5 mg at week 1 to a 15 mg maintenance dose once weekly subcutaneously.
Fast facts
Active
Tirzepatide
Maker
Eli Lilly
FDA Approval
2023
Indication
Chronic weight management (BMI 30+, or 27+ with weight-related comorbidity)
Form
Single-dose subcutaneous pen, 2.5 / 5 / 7.5 / 10 / 12.5 / 15 mg
Titration schedule
| Phase | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1-4 | 2.5 mg | 1 pen / week | SC |
| Week 5-8 | 5 mg | 1 pen / week | SC |
| Week 9-12 | 7.5 mg | 1 pen / week | SC |
| Week 13-16 | 10 mg | 1 pen / week | SC |
| Week 17-20 | 12.5 mg | 1 pen / week | SC |
| Week 21+ | 15 mg | 1 pen / week | SC |
Efficacy in clinical trials
SURMOUNT-1 trial: ~20.9% mean body weight loss at 72 weeks at the 15 mg dose vs ~3.1% placebo
Side effects timeline
GI events peak during each step of titration. Inject same day each week to maintain steady-state plasma levels.
Cost and access
~$1,060 / month US list price; coverage for obesity indication is patchy across US plans
Open Tirzepatide Dose Calculator → Compare GLP-1 titration schedules side by sideFrequently asked
What is the standard Zepbound titration schedule?
Zepbound starts at 2.5 mg once weekly and steps up over 24 weeks to a maintenance dose of 15 mg once weekly. The slow ramp reduces GI side effects.
How long does it take to reach the target Zepbound dose?
6 titration steps of about four weeks each, so approximately 24 weeks (roughly 6 months) from the first injection to maintenance. Researchers can extend any single step if side effects are limiting.
What if I miss a dose of Zepbound?
If a Zepbound dose is missed and the next scheduled dose is more than two days away, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If less than two days remain, skip the missed dose and resume the schedule. Do not double up.
What are the common side effects of Zepbound?
GI events peak during each step of titration. Inject same day each week to maintain steady-state plasma levels.
Is Zepbound the same as Mounjaro?
Zepbound and Mounjaro are both tirzepatide. Mounjaro is approved for Type 2 diabetes; Zepbound is approved for weight management. The titration ladder (2.5 to 15 mg over 21+ weeks) is identical.
Related
For research informational use only. Not medical advice. Zepbound is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any clinical decision. ASCEND, ascendpeptide.org