Zepbound works by mimicking the action of two hormones: glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GIP and GLP-1 activate certain receptors (binding sites) in the body that help regulate appetite. Zepbound belongs to a class of medications called dual GIP receptor and GLP-1 receptor agonists.

For weight loss and weight management

By acting similarly to GIP and GLP-1, Zepbound reduces your appetite and, as a result, your food intake. In this way, Zepbound may help you manage your weight.

For obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)

For many people with obesity and moderate to severe OSA, weight loss can help relieve sleep apnea symptoms. In this way, Zepbound helps improve OSA and its negative effects on blood-oxygen levels while you sleep.

To learn more about how Zepbound works, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Zepbound starts to work after your first dose, but due to how this happens, you likely won’t feel it working in your body. Your doctor will monitor you during Zepbound treatment to determine whether the drug is helping to manage your condition.

It may take weeks or even months to notice a change in body weight and OSA symptoms.

Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about what to expect from treatment with Zepbound.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.