Tirzepatide is a once-weekly injectable medication that helps people with obesity lose weight safely and effectively. It mimics two hormones in the body, GLP-1 and GIP, to control appetite, slow digestion, and regulate blood sugar levels.

• Reduces hunger and cravings: Tirzepatide helps you feel fuller longer and decreases appetite, supporting lower calorie intake.
• Slows stomach emptying: Food stays in the stomach longer, reducing snacking and helping control portion sizes.
• Balances blood sugar: By boosting insulin when needed and lowering glucagon, tirzepatide prevents blood sugar spikes that can trigger hunger.
• Supports consistent weight loss: With less frequent hunger and improved satiety, you naturally consume fewer calories, helping create a calorie deficit.

For the best results, tirzepatide should be used alongside a reduced-calorie diet, regular exercise, and behavioral support. It is not a quick fix, but a medically supervised tool to help achieve sustainable weight loss.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide personalized plans and ongoing support to help patients safely and effectively reach their weight management goals with tirzepatide.

Yes, tirzepatide (brand name Zepbound) is FDA-approved for weight loss. In 2024, the FDA approved it for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or those who are overweight and have at least one weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Clinical studies show that when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, tirzepatide can help patients lose 5% to 10% of their body weight, leading to improved metabolic health and reduced risk of heart disease.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we offer personalized tirzepatide programs that include diet, exercise, and ongoing support to help patients achieve safe, effective, and sustainable weight

Yes. While tirzepatide can be very effective for weight loss and blood sugar management, it may cause side effects. Not everyone experiences them, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following side effects while taking tirzepatide:

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Indigestion or upset stomach
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Belching or gas

Less Common but Possible Side Effects

• Headache
• Injection site reactions (redness, swelling, or itching)
• Gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn)
• Hair thinning or shedding (reported anecdotally, not confirmed in studies)

Serious Side Effects (Require immediate medical attention)

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
• Gallbladder problems, including gallstones
• Kidney problems, especially if dehydration occurs from vomiting/diarrhea
• Severe gastrointestinal issues, like gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying)
• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), especially when used with other diabetes medications
• Thyroid tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) – observed in animal studies (not confirmed in humans), but tirzepatide is not recommended for those with a personal or family history of MTC or MEN 2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2)

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide close monitoring and guidance to help patients safely manage side effects while achieving their weight loss goals with tirzepatide.

TTirzepatide may be suitable for adults who:

• Have a BMI of 30 or higher, or
• Have a BMI of 27 or higher with at least one weight-related health condition, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we evaluate each patient individually to determine if tirzepatide is a safe and effective option for achieving their weight loss goals.

Tirzepatide is a prescription medication used to manage type 2 diabetes and support long-term weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight. Marketed under the brand name Mounjaro, it works through a dual-action mechanism for blood sugar control and weight management.

• Dual hormone mimicry: Tirzepatide acts as a GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimicking two natural incretin hormones.

• Blood sugar regulation: It enhances insulin secretion when blood sugar is high and reduces glucagon production, helping stabilize glucose levels.

• Slows gastric emptying: Food stays in the stomach longer, promoting fullness and reduced snacking.

• Suppresses appetite: By reducing hunger and cravings, tirzepatide helps lower calorie intake and supports meaningful weight loss.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide personalized guidance on using tirzepatide safely and effectively as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

Tirzepatide has shown highly promising results in clinical studies for adults with obesity or overweight. Research demonstrates that patients using tirzepatide in combination with diet and exercise can experience significant and sustained weight loss over time.

• Many participants lost 15% to 20% of their body weight after several months of treatment.

• Its dual hormone mechanism helps reduce appetite, control blood sugar, and improve satiety, supporting consistent calorie reduction.

• Individual results may vary based on dosage, adherence to lifestyle changes, and personal metabolism.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we create personalized tirzepatide programs that combine injections, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle support to maximize weight loss results safely.

On average, patients using tirzepatide for weight loss can expect to lose about 15% to 22% of their body weight over roughly 72 weeks of consistent treatment. Actual results may vary depending on factors such as:

• Dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider
• Adherence to a healthy diet and exercise plan
• Individual metabolism and lifestyle habits

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide personalized treatment plans and ongoing support to help patients achieve safe, effective, and sustainable weight loss with tirzepatide.

No. Tirzepatide is not a fast weight loss solution. It typically takes several weeks to months to see meaningful results. Tirzepatide is intended for adults with obesity or overweight as part of a comprehensive weight management plan, which includes:

• Healthy diet
• Regular exercise
• Behavioral support and lifestyle guidance

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we combine tirzepatide treatment with personalized support to help patients achieve safe, gradual, and sustainable weight loss.

Some people may notice a small amount of weight loss during the first week of tirzepatide treatment. This initial change is usually due to reduced appetite and mild fluid loss.

Significant and sustainable weight loss, however, typically occurs over several weeks to months as the medication works alongside healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide ongoing support and monitoring to help patients achieve long-term weight loss goals safely with tirzepatide.

Most people experience reduced hunger and fewer cravings when using tirzepatide. The medication works on appetite-regulating hormones (GLP-1 and GIP) to help you feel fuller for longer, which naturally reduces calorie intake and supports weight loss.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we guide patients on how to manage appetite changes and maximize the effectiveness of tirzepatide as part of a comprehensive weight management plan.

Tirzepatide is typically started at 2.5 mg once weekly and gradually increased to a maintenance dose of 5 mg to 15 mg, depending on your response and tolerance.

You can take tirzepatide at any time of day, with or without food. It should be taken on the same day each week for consistency.

Tirzepatide is given as a subcutaneous injection, which means it is injected just under the skin. Common injection sites include:

• Stomach (abdomen)
• Thigh

• Upper arm

It’s important to rotate injection sites each week to prevent skin irritation or lumps.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO, we provide detailed instructions and support to ensure safe, comfortable, and effective injections of tirzepatide.

Yes, moderate alcohol use is generally considered safe while taking tirzepatide, but caution is strongly advised. Drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of side effects, including:

• Low blood sugar (especially if you have diabetes)
• Nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset
• Dizziness or dehydration
• Slower weight loss progress

Alcohol can also make it harder to recognize symptoms of low blood sugar and may interfere with appetite control, which is an important part of how tirzepatide works.

For best results, most healthcare providers recommend limiting alcohol intake or avoiding it altogether, especially during the first few weeks of treatment while your body is adjusting.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, your provider can give you personalized guidance based on your health history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle to help you use tirzepatide safely and effectively.

Not necessarily. Tirzepatide is not automatically a lifelong medication for weight loss. Some patients may benefit from longer-term use to help maintain their results, while others are able to transition off the medication after reaching their weight loss goals.

Whether tirzepatide is continued or discontinued depends on several factors, including:

• Your overall health and medical history
• How much weight you’ve lost
• How well lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are maintained
• Your provider’s clinical recommendation

Stopping tirzepatide without a plan may lead to weight regain, so it’s important to have a structured maintenance strategy in place. Any decision to stop or continue treatment should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can help you safely adjust your treatment plan and support long-term success.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, we focus on sustainable weight management, not quick fixes, and provide guidance to help patients maintain their results, whether they remain on medication or not.

The length of time you’ll take tirzepatide for weight loss depends on your individual goals, how your body responds to treatment, and your overall health. There is no one-size-fits-all timeline.

Many patients use tirzepatide for 12 to 18 months or longer, under ongoing medical supervision. This timeframe allows for gradual, sustainable weight loss while giving your body time to adapt to healthier eating habits and lifestyle changes.

Your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your progress and may adjust the duration of treatment based on:

• Your weight loss results
• Side effects or tolerance
• Medical history and metabolic health
• Long-term maintenance goals

Some individuals may continue tirzepatide longer to help maintain their weight loss, while others may transition off the medication once they reach their goals and have a solid maintenance plan in place.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, our focus is on safe, sustainable weight loss with personalized care—ensuring your treatment plan evolves with your progress.

Many patients begin noticing reduced appetite and early weight loss within the first few weeks of starting tirzepatide. However, more noticeable and consistent weight loss typically occurs after 8 to 12 weeks of regular use.

It’s important to understand that results can vary from person to person, and weight loss with tirzepatide is designed to be gradual and sustainable rather than immediate.

Several factors can influence how quickly results appear:

• Initial Changes: Some individuals experience appetite suppression and minor weight changes within the first few weeks of treatment.
• More Significant Progress: Larger and more consistent weight loss usually develops over several weeks to months, especially as the dosage is gradually increased and lifestyle habits improve.
• Lifestyle Factors: Starting weight, diet quality, physical activity, sleep habits, and overall health all play a role in how quickly and effectively tirzepatide works.
• Consistency Matters: Staying consistent with weekly injections and following your provider’s guidance helps maximize results over time.
• Individual Response: Every body responds differently. Some patients see faster progress, while others may take longer to experience noticeable changes and both responses are normal.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, we closely monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed to support safe, steady, and long-term weight loss success.

After stopping tirzepatide, some weight regain is possible, especially if healthy eating and activity habits are not maintained. Tirzepatide helps regulate appetite and metabolism, so once the medication is discontinued, hunger levels may gradually return to baseline.

To help maintain your weight loss results, it’s important to have a long-term lifestyle plan in place before stopping treatment, which may include:

• Continuing healthy eating habits and portion control

• Staying physically active on a regular basis
• Monitoring weight and overall health changes
• Following guidance from your healthcare provider

Some patients may benefit from a maintenance strategy, such as extended use at a lower dose or transitioning to alternative weight management support, depending on individual needs.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, we work with you to create a personalized plan so you can maintain your results safely and sustainably after reaching your weight loss goals.

Tirzepatide is not a replacement for diet and exercise. For the best and most sustainable weight loss results, it should be used in conjunction with healthy lifestyle changes, including a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and behavioral modifications.

Tirzepatide helps reduce appetite, control cravings, and improve metabolic function, making it easier to follow healthier habits. However, long-term success depends on maintaining:

• Nutritious, portion-controlled meals

• Consistent physical activity
• Positive, sustainable lifestyle changes

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, tirzepatide is prescribed as part of a comprehensive, medically supervised weight loss program, designed to support healthy habits—not replace them—so patients can achieve and maintain lasting results.

Yes. For the best weight loss results, tirzepatide should be used alongside a lower-calorie, nutrient-rich diet and regular physical activity. While tirzepatide helps reduce appetite and cravings, healthy lifestyle choices are essential for long-term success.

Diet and lifestyle recommendations while using tirzepatide include:

• Healthy Eating: Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Proper nutrition supports both weight loss and overall health while taking tirzepatide.

• Portion Control: Even with appetite suppression, mindful portion sizes play a key role in maximizing weight loss results.
• Foods to Limit or Avoid: Reduce high-calorie, sugary, and fatty foods, including processed snacks and sweetened beverages, as these can slow progress and reduce effectiveness.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in consistent physical activity such as walking, strength training, or cardiovascular exercise. Exercise enhances metabolism and supports long-term weight management.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps control hunger, improves digestion, and supports overall treatment success.
• Medical Supervision: Tirzepatide should always be taken under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider. Ongoing monitoring allows for safe dose adjustments and personalized support.

At Medical Care Solutions, tirzepatide is part of a medically supervised weight loss program designed to combine medication, nutrition guidance, and lifestyle support, helping patients achieve safe, sustainable results.

Tirzepatide offers several advantages over many traditional weight loss medications, but like any prescription treatment, it also comes with potential risks. Understanding both helps determine whether it’s the right option for you.

Benefits of tirzepatide for weight loss:

• Dual-action effectiveness: Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, making it more powerful than medications that only act on GLP-1, such as semaglutide.
• Greater average weight loss: Clinical trials, including the SURMOUNT studies, show tirzepatide can lead to greater overall weight loss compared to many other FDA-approved weight loss medications.
• Improved metabolic health: In addition to weight loss, tirzepatide helps improve blood sugar control, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, supporting better overall metabolic health.
• Once-weekly dosing: Tirzepatide is administered once per week, making it convenient and easy to stay consistent with treatment.
• Potential heart and kidney benefits: Ongoing research suggests tirzepatide may reduce the risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Potential risks of tirzepatide:

• Gastrointestinal side effects: The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose.
• Injection-based medication: Tirzepatide is given as a weekly injection, which may not be ideal for individuals uncomfortable with needles.
• Cost and insurance coverage: Tirzepatide can be expensive and is not always covered by insurance when prescribed solely for weight loss.
• Limited long-term data: While results so far are promising, tirzepatide is a newer medication, and long-term data for weight loss use is still being collected.
• Not suitable for everyone: Tirzepatide is not recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

At Medical Care Solutions, we carefully evaluate each patient’s medical history, goals, and lifestyle to determine whether tirzepatide, or another weight loss option is the safest and most effective choice.

Are there any known drug interactions with tirzepatide?

Yes. Tirzepatide can interact with certain medications, primarily because it slows stomach emptying, which may affect how quickly some oral medications are absorbed.

Key points to know about tirzepatide drug interactions:

• Delayed absorption of oral medications: Because tirzepatide slows digestion, some pills may take longer to absorb and may not work as expected.
• Diabetes medications: Tirzepatide may increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) when taken with insulin or medications such as sulfonylureas.
• Medications with precise dosing needs: Drugs that require exact timing or blood levelssuch as thyroid medications, blood thinners, or certain heart medications should be closely monitored.
• Supplements and over-the-counter medications: Vitamins, herbal supplements, and non-prescription medications can also be affected.

To stay safe, always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and vitamins you’re taking before starting tirzepatide.

At Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, we review your full medication list and monitor your treatment closely to help prevent interactions and ensure your weight loss plan is both safe and effective.

At this time, tirzepatide weight loss treatments at Medical Care Solutions are self-pay only. We do not accept insurance for tirzepatide injections when used for weight loss.

Your program cost includes:

• Weekly tirzepatide injections
• Ongoing medical monitoring
• Personalized support throughout your weight loss journey

Because insurance coverage for tirzepatide varies widely and is often limited to diabetes treatment, patients should expect to pay out of pocket for weight loss services.

If you have questions about pricing, treatment options, or whether tirzepatide is right for you, the team at Medical Care Solutions in Colorado Springs, CO is happy to help explain your options and next steps.

Yes, you can travel with tirzepatide (Mounjaro) safely if you follow proper storage and handling guidelines to maintain its effectiveness.

Tips for traveling with tirzepatide:

• Refrigeration: Store unused tirzepatide pens in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
• Short-term travel: Tirzepatide can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C) for up to 21 days, so short trips may not require refrigeration.
• Insulated travel case: Use a cooler or medical travel case with a cold pack for flights or warm climates—but do not freeze the medication.
• Carry-on luggage: Always keep tirzepatide in your carry-on, not checked baggage, to avoid extreme temperatures.
• Label and prescription: Keep the pen in its original packaging with the prescription label and carry a copy of your prescription in case airport security or customs asks.

For long trips or international travel, consult your healthcare provider for additional guidance to ensure your medication stays safe and effective.

Yes. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) should ideally be stored in the refrigerator, but for short-term travel, it can be kept at room temperature up to 86°F (30°C) for up to 21 days.

Travel tips:

• Use a cold pack or insulated travel case for longer trips or warm climates.
• Avoid freezing the medication.
• Keep the pen in its original packaging with the prescription label.

Following these guidelines helps maintain tirzepatide’s effectiveness and safety while traveling.