Zepbound (tirzepatide) is a medication that people use for weight loss and obstructive sleep apnea. It can cause various digestive side effects, including diarrhea, which is one of the most common. In clinical trials, diarrhea occurred in 19% to 23% of people taking Zepbound, depending on their dose. Most people using Zepbound don’t experience diarrhea.

Zepbound changes how your body handles food by slowing down how fast your stomach empties. The medication mimics the hormones glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) that regulate appetite and digestion. This means your system may not absorb fluids and nutrients properly, leading to loose or watery stools.

To manage diarrhea with Zepbound, try the following:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, broth, or sports drinks to replace lost fluids and electrolytes.
  • Eat the right foods: It’s best to avoid high fat or spicy foods if you experience diarrhea, as these can worsen digestive issues. Alcohol, caffeine, and dairy are also common triggers. Eating more frequently and choosing bland foods may help.
  • Consider medication: Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as loperamide (Imodium), can help treat diarrhea. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist before trying OTC options.

Digestive side effects, such as diarrhea, constipation, and nausea, occur during the dose escalation phase of treatment. This is the first few months when a person’s Zepbound dose is gradually increased. For most people, these symptoms are temporary and decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication.

The best way to prevent diarrhea is to follow the schedule your doctor gives you for slowly increasing your dose every 4 weeks. This gradual approach is designed to help your digestive system adjust and reduce the risk of side effects.

Avoiding triggers, eating smaller, more easily digested foods, and staying hydrated can support your body to respond well during Zepbound treatment.