While Zepbound is a powerful tool for weight management, many people starting the medication report feeling an unusual level of tiredness or fatigue. This is a documented side effect of tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Zepbound, and it is important for users to understand its potential causes and how to manage it. This article explores the relationship between Zepbound and energy levels, drawing on clinical trial data and expert insights.
The link between Zepbound and fatigue
Yes, Zepbound can make you feel tired. Clinical trial data revealed that fatigue was a commonly reported side effect, with the frequency increasing with higher doses. For instance, a higher percentage of patients on the 15 mg dose reported fatigue compared to those on a 5 mg dose or a placebo. This fatigue can manifest as a general sense of low energy, weakness, or lethargy. However, it is typically most noticeable during the initial weeks of treatment, particularly when the dose is being increased. The body often adjusts over time, and the fatigue may lessen.
Why Zepbound might make you feel tired
Several factors can contribute to fatigue while taking Zepbound. These are not always mutually exclusive, and a combination may be responsible for an individual's experience.
Potential causes of Zepbound-induced fatigue:
- Reduced calorie intake: Zepbound works by suppressing appetite, which can lead to consuming significantly fewer calories. This caloric deficit can reduce the body's available energy stores, leading to a feeling of tiredness, especially during the initial months of treatment.
- Gastrointestinal side effects: Common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can contribute to fatigue in several ways. These can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to dehydration, which itself is a primary cause of tiredness.
- Metabolic adjustments: As the body adapts to the medication's effects on appetite and metabolism, it can temporarily cause a feeling of sluggishness or low energy. This is a normal part of the adjustment process for many new medications.
- Hypoglycemia: For individuals also taking insulin or a sulfonylurea for type 2 diabetes, Zepbound can increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Symptoms of hypoglycemia include weakness, drowsiness, and fatigue.
Fatigue vs. sleepiness: Understanding the difference
It is important to distinguish between fatigue and sleepiness. Fatigue is a general lack of energy, while sleepiness is the urge to sleep. While Zepbound is known to cause fatigue, clinical trials did not identify insomnia as a direct side effect. However, related issues can indirectly affect sleep.
For example, discomfort from gastrointestinal side effects like nausea or heartburn can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep, leading to a feeling of sleepiness or tiredness the next day. Anecdotal reports on social media have also mentioned sleep-related issues, although more research is needed to understand these reports. Conversely, for patients with obesity-related obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), Zepbound-induced weight loss can actually lead to improved sleep quality and reduced daytime sleepiness over time.
Comparison: Fatigue with Zepbound vs. other GLP-1 agonists
Zepbound's active ingredient, tirzepatide, belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists. Fatigue is a common side effect across this class of medications, including semaglutide (active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy). However, some studies have noted minor differences in the reported incidence of certain side effects between these medications.
Zepbound vs. Semaglutide: Reported Side Effects
| Side Effect | Zepbound (Tirzepatide) | Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | Common, reported in up to 30% of users in clinical trials. | Common, frequently cited in clinical trials and user reports. |
| Fatigue | Common, affecting 5–7% of users in clinical trials, dose-dependent. | Common, reported in clinical trials, but specific percentages vary. |
| Diarrhea | Common, up to 23% in clinical trials. | Common, up to 23% in clinical trials of higher-dose semaglutide for weight loss. |
| Insomnia | Not a direct side effect, but can be indirectly caused by other GI issues or anxiety. | Not a direct side effect, but can be indirectly caused by GI issues. Some anecdotal reports exist. |
| Appetite | Significantly reduces appetite, leading to caloric deficit. | Reduces appetite, but as a dual agonist, tirzepatide might show a slightly different metabolic effect. |
Note: Side effect profiles can vary between individuals, and data from specific clinical trials may have slight differences depending on the study population and design.
Managing fatigue while on Zepbound
For many, fatigue is a manageable side effect. Several lifestyle strategies can help counteract the feelings of tiredness while your body adjusts to the medication.
Strategies to help manage Zepbound fatigue:
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration is a common trigger for fatigue, especially if you are experiencing gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea or vomiting. Ensure you are drinking plenty of water and, if needed, consider an electrolyte-enhanced beverage.
- Prioritize quality sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night. Maintain good sleep hygiene by establishing a relaxing bedtime routine and ensuring your sleep environment is cool, dark, and quiet. Avoiding caffeine and heavy meals close to bedtime can also help prevent sleep disruptions.
- Eat nutrient-dense, balanced meals: Because your appetite is reduced, it is crucial to focus on nutrient quality over quantity. Opt for small, frequent meals containing lean protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates to maintain stable energy levels.
- Incorporate light exercise: Gentle physical activity, such as a 20–30 minute walk, can help boost energy levels and improve sleep quality. If fatigue is severe, start with low-intensity activities and gradually increase as tolerated.
- Talk to your healthcare provider: If fatigue persists or is severe, discuss it with your doctor. They can rule out other potential causes, such as vitamin deficiencies or other health issues, and may suggest adjusting your dose or injection timing.
When to contact your doctor
While fatigue is a normal part of adjusting to Zepbound, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention. If you experience severe or persistent tiredness, especially when combined with symptoms like confusion, dizziness, dark-colored urine, or swollen legs, contact your doctor immediately, as these can indicate a more serious condition like kidney problems or severe dehydration.
Conclusion: Balancing side effects and benefits
Experiencing fatigue or sleepiness on Zepbound is a possibility, but it is often a temporary side effect of the body adjusting to the medication. By understanding the underlying causes—primarily reduced calorie intake and gastrointestinal issues—users can take proactive steps to manage their energy levels effectively. These strategies, combined with close communication with a healthcare provider, can help minimize discomfort and ensure a positive outcome on your weight management journey. Ultimately, many individuals find that the significant weight loss and potential improvements in related health conditions outweigh the initial period of fatigue. For more information, consult the official Zepbound website from Eli Lilly.
