Compounded injectable tirzepatide is a prescription GLP-1 medication taken once a week. Your provider decides whether it is right for you and sets your exact dose.
What it is
Tirzepatide may support weight loss by reducing appetite and helping your body manage blood sugar and metabolism. The compounded medication is prepared by a licensed specialty pharmacy using pharmaceutical-grade ingredients.
Compounded tirzepatide has not been approved by the FDA for weight loss. Individual results vary.
How to take it
Inject tirzepatide under your skin once a week, on the same day each week. You can take it with or without food.
Use the exact dose printed on your prescription label. Your provider decides every dose or medication change. If you have a question about your dose, use the chat in the SkinnyRx app to ask your provider.
Common injection sites include your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate the site each week. Avoid skin that is bruised, red, scarred, or hard. Place used needles and syringes in a sharps container right away. See How do I take my injection? for full instructions.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember if it is within 4 days of your usual injection day. If more than 4 days have passed, skip that dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses to make up for one you missed. You can also review What should I do if I miss a dose?.
Storage
Keep the medication refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F. Do not freeze it. Keep it away from light, and do not use it after the beyond-use or expiration date on the vial.
You may let it come to room temperature before your injection if needed. For more information, see How do I store my medication?.
Common side effects
Common side effects include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Bloating, gas, heartburn, or burping
- Fatigue or headache
- Redness or soreness at the injection site
Side effects often appear when starting treatment or after a dose increase. They usually improve as your body adjusts.
When to contact your care team
Contact your care team if you have persistent or painful swelling at an injection site. You can also reach out if side effects are bothering you or you have questions about treatment. Use the chat in the SkinnyRx app. See What should I do if I have side effects?.
Important safety information
Tell your provider about your full medical history. Tirzepatide is not recommended if you have certain conditions, including a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2.
It is also not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while actively trying to conceive. If you become pregnant during treatment, stop taking your medication right away and tell your care team. If you are breastfeeding or trying to conceive, tell your provider.
Stop taking your medication and call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you have:
- Severe, ongoing pain in your upper or middle stomach that may spread to your back
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing or swallowing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever, or clay-colored stools
- Vision changes, fainting, severe dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat
- Decreased urination or swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet
Seek emergency medical attention right away if you think you took too much. See When should I get emergency care?.
Need more help?
Contact the support team. See How do I contact support?.