Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injectable medication for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea. Its effects on hormones have raised concerns about fertility and pregnancy. Can you get pregnant on Zepbound? This article explores the risks and considerations for reproductive health.
Zepbound mimics GLP-1 and GIP hormones to reduce appetite and manage blood sugar. These actions may influence fertility, especially in women with obesity or hormonal imbalances. Understanding these effects is crucial if you’re of reproductive age.
This guide covers Zepbound’s impact on pregnancy, fertility, and birth control. With simple advice, you’ll learn how to navigate its use safely while planning your family.
Understanding Zepbound and Its Uses
Zepbound is FDA-approved for adults with obesity or those overweight with conditions like type 2 diabetes. It’s also used for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in obese adults. The drug promotes weight loss by curbing appetite.
It’s injected weekly in doses from 2.5 mg to 15 mg. Clinical trials show an average weight loss of 48 pounds over 72 weeks. These benefits make it popular for weight management.
Zepbound’s hormonal effects can influence fertility. This raises concerns about pregnancy and contraception for sexually active users.
Zepbound and Fertility: What We Know
Can you get pregnant on Zepbound? Yes, it’s possible, and some women report unexpected pregnancies. Weight loss from Zepbound can restore ovulation in women with obesity or PCOS, increasing fertility.
Zepbound may also reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. This happens because it slows digestion, affecting how pills are absorbed. This risk is highest in the first four weeks and after dose increases.
There’s no evidence Zepbound directly boosts fertility. Its fertility effects are likely due to weight loss and hormonal balance.
Pregnancy Risks with Zepbound
Zepbound is not recommended during pregnancy. Animal studies show it may cause fetal harm, such as growth issues or malformations. Human data is limited, so safety isn’t confirmed.
Weight loss during pregnancy can reduce nutrients for the fetus, posing risks. If you become pregnant on Zepbound, stop the medication and contact your doctor immediately.
Eli Lilly, Zepbound’s manufacturer, has a pregnancy registry to track outcomes. Call 1-800-545-5979 to join if you conceive while using Zepbound.
Birth Control and Zepbound
Zepbound can make oral birth control pills less effective. This is due to slowed stomach emptying, which affects pill absorption. The risk is highest for four weeks after starting or increasing doses.
Doctors recommend using non-oral birth control, like condoms, IUDs, or patches, during these periods. After four weeks of a stable dose, you may resume oral contraceptives. Always consult your doctor for contraception advice.
Switching to a barrier method or non-oral option ensures protection. This is critical if you’re sexually active and not planning pregnancy.
Who’s at Risk for Unexpected Pregnancy?
Women with obesity or PCOS may have higher fertility on Zepbound due to weight loss. Losing 5–15% of body weight can restore ovulation, increasing pregnancy chances. This has led to reports of “Zepbound babies.”
Those using oral birth control are also at risk due to reduced effectiveness. Women with irregular periods may not notice early pregnancy signs, delaying Zepbound discontinuation.
Discuss your fertility status with your doctor. They can assess your risk and recommend appropriate contraception.
Steps to Take if You Get Pregnant
If you suspect pregnancy while on Zepbound, take a pregnancy test immediately. Stop the medication as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. Contact your doctor for guidance on next steps.
Joining the Zepbound pregnancy registry helps collect safety data. This benefits future users by tracking outcomes. Call 1-800-545-5979 to enroll.
Your doctor may monitor your pregnancy closely. This ensures the health of you and your baby.
Comparing Zepbound and Other GLP-1 Drugs
Zepbound shares similarities with GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy (semaglutide). Both can increase fertility through weight loss and may affect birth control pills. The table below compares their pregnancy-related considerations.
| Drug | Active Ingredient | Pregnancy Safety | Birth Control Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Not safe, stop immediately | Reduces oral pill effectiveness |
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Not safe, stop 2 months prior | Reduces oral pill effectiveness |
Both drugs require stopping before planned pregnancy. Zepbound’s dual-hormone action may enhance fertility effects slightly.
Planning Pregnancy on Zepbound
If you’re planning to conceive, stop Zepbound at least two months before trying. This allows the drug to clear your system, reducing potential risks. Work with your doctor to taper off safely.
Weight loss from Zepbound can improve fertility, especially for PCOS patients. Continue healthy eating and exercise to maintain these benefits. This supports conception without medication risks.
Discuss alternative weight management plans with your doctor. They can suggest safe strategies during pregnancy planning.
Breastfeeding and Zepbound
It’s unknown if Zepbound passes into breast milk or affects infants. Due to its large molecular size, it’s unlikely to transfer in large amounts. However, it may break down in the infant’s digestive system.
Doctors advise against using Zepbound while breastfeeding until more data is available. Discuss feeding options with your healthcare provider. They can recommend safe alternatives.
If you plan to breastfeed, stop Zepbound before delivery. This ensures no potential exposure to your baby.
Managing Side Effects During Transition
Stopping Zepbound suddenly, like after a pregnancy discovery, may cause side effects. Increased appetite or weight regain is common, especially during pregnancy. These can feel intensified due to hormonal changes.
Eat balanced meals with proteins, vegetables, and whole grains to manage hunger. Stay hydrated and practice portion control. A dietitian can help create a pregnancy-safe eating plan.
Report severe symptoms, like nausea or rapid weight gain, to your doctor. They may suggest gradual tapering if feasible.
Real-Life Experiences
Some women report unexpected pregnancies on Zepbound, often linked to improved fertility from weight loss. One Reddit user conceived at 4 weeks on 5 mg and stopped immediately, with no reported issues.
Another user had a healthy pregnancy after stopping Zepbound early. These stories suggest stopping promptly may reduce risks. However, outcomes vary, and data is limited.
Always consult your doctor about your experience. Joining the pregnancy registry contributes to research.
Long-Term Considerations
Zepbound’s fertility effects are a side benefit, not a primary use. If you continue Zepbound after pregnancy, restart only after breastfeeding ends. Discuss timing with your doctor to avoid risks.
Maintain weight loss with diet and exercise to sustain fertility benefits. Regular check-ins with your doctor monitor health markers like blood sugar. This ensures long-term wellness.
Stay informed about new research. Pregnancy registries will provide more data on Zepbound’s safety over time.
Consulting Your Doctor
Your doctor is key to navigating Zepbound and pregnancy. Share your pregnancy plans or contraception needs before starting. They’ll recommend stopping Zepbound two months before conception.
If you conceive unexpectedly, contact your doctor immediately. They’ll guide you on stopping Zepbound and monitoring your pregnancy. Regular visits ensure safety for you and your baby.
For more information, visit zepbound.lilly.com or call 1-800-545-5979. Eli Lilly offers resources on Zepbound’s use and safety.
Summary
Can you get pregnant on Zepbound? Yes, due to improved fertility from weight loss and reduced birth control pill effectiveness. It’s not safe during pregnancy, so stop immediately if you conceive and join the pregnancy registry. Use non-oral contraception during the first four weeks and after dose increases. Plan to stop Zepbound two months before trying to conceive, and avoid it while breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance to ensure a safe reproductive journey.
FAQ
Can you get pregnant on Zepbound while using birth control?
Yes, Zepbound may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills, especially in the first four weeks or after dose increases. Use non-oral methods like condoms or IUDs. Discuss options with your doctor.
Is Zepbound safe to use during pregnancy?
No, Zepbound is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Stop the medication immediately if you become pregnant. Contact your doctor and consider joining the pregnancy registry.
How does Zepbound affect fertility?
Zepbound can improve fertility by promoting weight loss, which restores ovulation in women with obesity or PCOS. This increases pregnancy chances. Discuss fertility risks with your doctor.
Can I breastfeed while taking Zepbound?
No, it’s not known if Zepbound is safe during breastfeeding. Doctors advise stopping it before breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for safe feeding options.
Dr. Hamza is a medical content reviewer with over 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic conditions. His reviews are grounded in trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Hamza is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.