When Forbes Health needed expert insight into one of the newest FDA-approved weight loss medications, the publication turned to Dr. Andrew Luhrs, a board-certified bariatric surgeon at Brown Surgical Associates, to help explain how Zepbound (tirzepatide) is reshaping obesity treatment in the U.S.
What Is Zepbound?
Zepbound is a once-weekly injection approved by the FDA in late 2023 for adults with obesity or overweight and a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.
In the Forbes article, Dr. Luhrs explained that Zepbound is the first of its kind to act on two hormone receptors—GLP-1 and GIP—helping patients feel full faster, regulate insulin, and burn more fat. “By copying these hormones, tirzepatide lowers blood sugar and helps people eat less and lose weight,” he noted.
How Effective Is Zepbound?
According to studies cited in Forbes, Zepbound helps patients lose 15–22% of their body weight on average when used alongside diet and lifestyle changes.
Who Should—and Shouldn’t—Use Zepbound?
Dr. Luhrs advised that Zepbound is best for patients with a BMI over 30, or over 27 with related health conditions.
“An ideal candidate for Zepbound has tried diet and exercise without long-term success, is committed to lifestyle changes, and has no major medical exclusions,” Dr. Luhrs said.
But it’s not for everyone: Patients with a history of certain thyroid cancers, pancreatitis, or severe GI disease may want to avoid it.
What About Side Effects?
In the interview, Dr. Luhrs noted that most patients tolerate Zepbound well, though some experience nausea, diarrhea, or fatigue. Serious risks—like gallbladder issues or pancreatitis—are rare but possible.
Dr. Luhrs and the Weight Loss Surgery team at Brown Surgical Associates offer personalized evaluations for patients exploring medical and surgical weight loss options.
