This is the best video I have seen yet. Dr. Covington do you feel this is a good fit for women who are in peri-menopause and/or for patients looking to lose less than 40 pounds?
Disclaimer - not providing formal medical advice be sure to consult someone who knows your medical history well ** but I want to answer your question. Yes. I think it can be a great option for weight loss in general including post menopause but dont count out the other FDA approved weight loss medications - there are many that perform well post menopause and if something does not work after 1-3 months don't be afraid to try something else.
Great question. I just went into full menopause and the weight has come out of nowhere! I do have one other medical issue, but this weight is just coming for no reason....lol. Anyway, thanks for the question and Thank You Dr Covington for this very important information.
After menopause the weight just came on no matter how little I ate or how much I walked. I blame a lot on the fact that I’m a nightshift worker and my sleep terrible. I have Zepbound. My insurance did NOT. Pay for it . I paid out of pocket which was a struggle. Now I’m afraid to use it so I’m trying to find out as much information as I can about it.
Yall, these medications are truly revolutionary. I have been on a generic Semaglutide, which only has the 1 receptor site as opposed to Zep that has 2, but even with it only acting on the one site as it was explained to me by my provider I have went from 215lbs to 175lbs in less than 4 months. 40lbs!! Tiltrating up to an effective dosage was the only slow moving and thus frustrating part. Eventually the lbs literally just fell off. It was honestly so effortless. Truly amazing. Goal weight is about 165lbs. Almost there!! I couldn’t recommend these drugs more! Excellent video doc!
I just got mine and I'm going to start it today. I was looking for the video that'll show how to auto inject it I'm so glad that I found this video. Your explanation was amazing, so clear. My insurance has approved it. I hope it will still approve it on the coming insurance election.
Good morning! I’m having a bit trouble getting approved by mine. I’m going through the appeal process. Did you have any trouble? Any advice will, help thank you!
Requesting a ‘prior authorization’ from your pharmacy to have you doctor fill out stating that this is the patient’s best option will get you the medication even if you have federal insurance. I have Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare told me directly about this and what to have my doctor say in order for them to approve it. Most medication I take I had to do a prior authorization and as a result, I got everything approved and I pay zero dollars. Simply call your insurance and bring up prior authorization and they’ll tell you willingly how that works for any medication your doctor thinks is important for you to take.
@@kassiebyers2121 your insurance can fax over additional questions to your doctor which betters your chances of getting approved and the insurance will recommend for you to try alternatives like WeGovy but your doctor can simply say ZepBound is your best option. It’s relying on your doctor to communicate effectively that I have found to be the tricky part but ironically it’s your insurance that is more than willing to cover the medication only if your doctor makes it clear that ZepBound is your best option.
@@kassiebyers2121 Make sure the correct diagnosis of obesity was provided on the PA by your Dr. It should be covered if your insurance provides coverage for weight loss medication.
My dr won’t do it for me. Says she thinks I just need to diet and exercise more and that I’m not doing enough. She is extremely skinny and an environmentalist that believes in natural means and won’t approve it for me.. I don’t know what to do.
Great video! Thanks Dr! I was on wegovy I lost 35 lbs then although still on the weekly shots weight was coming back as I’m in menopause . I started Zepbound so let’s hope .
North Carolina made Zepbound available as a weight loss drug with mandatory coverage with state Medicaid. Otherwise I never could have afforded it. It's working, which really helps my heart condition.
I’m so excited I’ve lost 10lbs in the last month on 2.5.. I do exercise and watch what I eat… the absolute best thing.. is I only pay $30 a box; yes I said a box 1,2,3, & 4 dosages . I work at a hospital. We have an employee pharmacy. My PCP love him knows his stuff and that is how I was prescribed… I have my 5 mg dosages for June already with Two refills..
I was just in Charlotte a few weeks ago!! Beautiful city. I am finally starting my Zepbound journey after several weeks of insurance denials, and backorders. Your video is very informative and I am working with my GP and a Weightloss team. I am already 5 weeks into my high protein/low carb healthy eating journey but it's the food chatter and cravings still getting me. I look forward to more of your videos!
I have united when I first tried to get zep it wouldn’t cover but I called my insurance and my prescription provider which was Caremark and was able to get it covered under my primary care provider. For weight loss medication so in February they wouldn’t cover it but in April they did. 🎉🎉🎉 23 pounds down in 4 weeks. 🎉
@@Creole202YHWHwifeI’m very serious. I started 260 I’m now down to 224 but the thing is I already knew how to workout and watch and count my calories. I needed help with the mental cravings. That kept me falling off the wagon. Still not perfect because when I started I had 3 vacations sure I fell off but I bounced back to the weight that I lost compared to when I was doing it on my own doing keto and gym I would take way longer to get back to the weight before vacation now I’m maintaining the weight. But honestly I figured by now I’d be down 50 pounds. But I’ll get there eventually.
Thanks so much for this video and the info, my doctor just wrote a script for me for Zepbound and sent me out the door, so its great to learn about this drug!
I have taken Zepbound for 3 weeks now. I paid $$$$ out the nose to try it. It has helped me soooooooo much! I would love to keep taking it. Only slight nausea and some constipation but I’m feeling better after the 3rd dose. I’ve lost a little over 8.5lbs in the last 3 weeks! I’m going to be trying to get my insurance to help me cover the cost of my prescription as I’m on Medicaid… I’m praying they help me out!!!!! 😊 Thanks to everyone for help on this matter! I do work for the federal government but can’t get new health insurance until after November 1st and it won’t be effective until Jan of 2025… so I’m hoping Medicaid will come thru for me now that I’ve tried it and got great results!!! I’m really pumped about it. Injections didn’t hurt at all. Can’t even feel it. Getting blood drawn or a vaccine from the hospital hurts waaaaaaaaay more! This is not even anything in comparison at all!!!
Thank you so much Dr. Covington! Your video was very helpful. I’m seriously thinking of starting Zepbound and was very skeptical but your video gave some valuable information. I greatly appreciate it! I’m near Hilton Head, if closer I would come by to pick your brain 😅. Thanks again Doc.
Eli Lilly recommends disposal in a Sharps. They also recommend rotating the injection sites: alternate sides and locations. I started in the right side, belly, then leg, then back of arm. I will begin injecting the left sides in all three areas.
Thank you for sharing and I know that you are correct, however, it is very impractical. These pens are 6-7 inches long they will quickly fill most sharps containers in a shorter than usual timeframe and patients may not realize sharps removal is a professional medical paid service that is usually only provided for medical establishments and labs. But if you've found companies that will do this residentially definitely share because I dont know any. For liability and manpower reasons I also dont know any medical offices that allow patients to drop off full sharps containers either.
@@DrMelodyCovingtonMD I use a sharps container and then dispose of the sealed sharps in with my trash. I don’t know of another way… but they do recommend using the sharps. I was just clarifying.
Its a great point and something that should be clarified and discussed. Our state law (North Carolina), considers sharps generated and used in private homes to not require medical waste disposal and the recommendation is that the sharps be "walled off". The lancet (or needle) recoils into the pen so it is walled off upon disposal (my interpretation), however, using your sharps container is responsible and definitely not wrong.@@jayleigh_bee
You are correct - Tricare does cover, depending on the plan. I have tricare select, and it is 100% covered with a PA. Not too sure about the other Tricare plans!
@mychalhicks970 mine was covered but im still paying $43 per box. I won't complain because I could be paying a lot more. How are you doing with them authorizing increased dosages?
@@shenikacrowell601 all you need to do is make sure your PRIOR AUTHORIZATION is approved by Tricare. No need to worry about them denying a bigger dosage, since they authorized your treatment!
I am week 2. My first week was amazing, this week has been a bit harder. I'm on beginning 2.5 mg. This is one of the better videos I've found. Thank you!
Thanks for the information about this. I'm thinking of getting this med. Btw, why did you demonstrate the injecting on your hand? Kind of wasting 1 dose just to show us here. And, is there any affect to you and your hand for injecting that med? Just asking..
I was on Wegovy for 1 month back in September and could not get it again due to the shortage. It worked excellent for me. I had no cravings and was barely hungry. I started Zepbound 2.5 this month (Jan). I am taking my third shot today and haven’t had much of a decrease in my appetite and still have cravings. Is this normal with Zepbound? The Wegovy worked within 2 days of taking it. I had horrible nausea with the Wegovy, none with Zepbound. Thanks
I have been prescribed Wegovy 0.25mg and have not been able to get the medicine due to a shortage. FEP BCBS says, "I have to try Wegovy first, and if it doesn't work, they will approve Zepbound." How did you get, Zepbound?
I took 0.25 Ozempic for a few months last year, stopped and then started taking Mounjaro in Oct. I would say the low dosage of O was more effective for .e compared to the 2.5 of Mounjaro but once I went up to 5mgs the cravings were gone and my appetite drastically decreased. I am now on 7.5 which is the maintenance dosage my Doc has me on for the next 6 months. I've gone from 190lbs to 165 in 4 months of taking Mounjaro. I also had terrible constipation with O, and have not experienced that with any of the dosage amounts of Mounjaro.
I just started Zepbound yesterday and I'm curious and nervous about the nausea feeling. So it is refreshing to hear that you didn't experience nausea. But I was recommended to take metamucil for the prevention of constipation. So I'll try it
Hi! I just started Zepbound & was prescribed 2.5. I took my second shot this week. I haven't noticed any changes in my appetite or had any symptoms not even nausea. Can you please share an update on your progress ?
I started zepbound. I lost my appetite within hours of my first dose, i have felt ok but little nauseous here and there. I didn't think the injection happened because i didnt feel it, but here i am 3 days later, still not wanting a full plate of food. Ive been making myself eat some rrail mix, an egg and a turkey sausage. Im also a bit tired, but i know that will pass. Headaches due to not drinking my morning coffee because it was advised not to.
Hi, has you seen an increase in thyroid cancer and kidney failure in your patients, or that you’ve heard through studies and from colleagues? Thank you very much
I’m on zepbound..I don’t have any nausea, but I wake up in the middle of the night with bile burning my throat which makes me cough for about an hour! Should I quit? Does anyone else have this problem?
You should let your physician know if you already haven’t :) I have a similar condition at night with the acid reflux and wake up coughing . There are medications for this .
Hey, Good Morning Dr. Paul from NYC . So I just use the medication just now for the very first time. I even had this video to show me how’s it’s done . I’m a very big fella but when I minister the medication I didn’t hear the final click ,after the first click when I inject myself . So I waited and count to 20 and release ..should I be worry ? I guess I had the video playing at the same time as me injecting myself . Maybe I didn’t hear it cuz of the soundtrack of the video ? U think ?
Dr Covington..thank you for allowing questions. In your opinion, would this drug be safe for a person with type II diabetes,stage III chronic kidney disease (1.6 creatinine & eGFR 34 & 70 yrs old) & hiatal hernia/reflux?
I would talk to your nephrologist. I have CKD and I'm on Mounjaro and doing pretty good on it thus far. I'll know for sure when I get my blood work done next month.
My sister just got this but hasnt applied it yet. She is afraid. She is not diabetic but because of her thyroids levels going up and down (even with medication) she gained weight after being thin for a long time. So her doctor prescribed her this. I found that with these medications, you have to make sure you are always hydrated. Strength training is important to prevent muscle loss. Eating veggies and fruits help move the bowels. Move your body at least 10-15 minutes after you eat. I was on ozempic then insurance issues prevented me from getting it ( surprise, surprise, not!) So now i just started Trulicity, applied it on my thight and man that hurt! All im saying is educate yourself on these, do your part and you will definitely see results. I lost 30 lbs.
I am getting weekly injections of Tirzepatide at a weight loss clinic run by an MD. The doctor also gives semiglutide injections. He told me that the semiglutide is from a compounding pharmacy but the Tirzepatide is from Eli Lilly, which is why he charges a little more for the shots ($60 a shot for semiglutide, $80 for Tirzepatide). He has started me on 2.0 of Tirzepatide, but I’ve read it should the starting dose should be 2.5? Does this sound right to you? How do you feel about getting either drug from a compounding pharmacy?
I have been taking semaglutide (compounded because Wegovy is unavailable) since February. I started out at 2.5 and have been there since. Next month I will up the dosage because I am noticing that it is no longer working as it once was. But I was planning on asking my doctor about this Zepbound because I thought it might be readily available versus the Wegovy.
Thank you so much for your time to explain this meditation. I took Monjaro a few months ago and had horrible sidefects with nausea cramping and vomiting. The Dr never told me about this. I also just prescribed Zepbound and took my first dose this morning. I k ew it was basically the same as monjaro, so this time I ate light a few days leading up to taking the first dose. Hopefully I can stave off the nausea and cramping. But again thank you for taking time to explain this medicication and other nutrition information
My first 2 Zepbound 2.5 injections went great, just a tingle on my left foot/leg, like it had fallen asleep. Injection #3 in where it went south, my right eye saw a golden and yellow color hues. The next day I couldn't read the street signs with either eye. It did resolve after a number of days, but my doctor and I came to the conclusion I should stop taking it. I did begin having some pain behind my knees, but that seems to have been reported a lot on Reddit, and I'm sure it will resolve over the coming days. I hate that I had these side effects on this because it was working so well for me. I immediately jumped back to my typical low carb diet so I don't gain back the 10 pounds I got off while on Zepbound.
I have been prescribed Wegovy 0.25mg, and there is a shortage, so I have not been able to get the medication. My provider ordered Zepbound, and FEP BCBS is denying the coverage because I have to try Wegovy first. From a provider perspective, is there anything my provider can say to get FEP BCBS to approve, Zepbound?
Me too - Couldn't find it via insurance however I obtained the medication from a private physician and paid for it out of pocket. Unfortunately, it is available but through self pay
Unfortunately not but there is a possibility it will be picked up by your insurance company OR a possibility you can find the rare pharmacy in your area that does have Wegovy to start in the meantime.
For weight loss medicine prescription - must have in-person physical examination and vitals Plenity . This is not clear to me about Virtual Medicine appointments.
It is because Plenity is not considered a "medication" it is classified as a device so does not require in person physical examination. But the exam requirement varies by provider. I personally prefer to see anyone who I prescribe a medication in person first and get an accurate weight, vitals, and perform physical exam but not all clinics or states require that.
Yes I would. Although Zepbound is newer I've prescribed GLP1s my entire career and I've seen them change patient's lives and improve quality of life as well. When its safe and effective its great... for patients who cant tolerate the medications or are not getting results - we discontinue and try something else.
Anytime of day is fine just stick with what you choose week to week as best you can. I usually suggest mornings so people dont forget but my patients do them any time of day that fits their lifestyle and where they can remain consistent.
Thanks for the video. My doctor prescribed zepbound for me about month ago. I applied for the discount card and just got it yesterday for $550. My question is, my doctor said the month's supply can be spread out to last a little longer. I'm supposed to get some syringes and viles then go back to see the doctor and they'll show me what to do. Is this true as far as you know? Can the medicine stretch a little farther so I'm not buying it every month?
@@katherineadames8506 me, I got sleeved in 2016 lost 52 and gain 40. Today is Day 4 on 2.5 and so far I have no side effects and doing well. I eat small meals, low carbs, high protein, lots of water, and walk 4-6 times per week. I just need to be consistent. Goal is to lose 52lbs in 6-7 months.
Wrong info given ➡️➡️ The website and instructions in the box literally say it can be stored room temp for 21 days not only 5 hours. Im sure the best way is in the fride 36-46 degrees (check your fridge temps) but it can be room temperature up to 86 degrees for 21 days and it is perfectly fine.
"Can be" and should be are not the same. The information that I am providing is directly from our company reps. The company also says that "if needed" to store at room temperature up to 21 days but of course that is not ideal. If it stays at room temperature for 21 days you speed up the degradation process and have to discard the pens much earlier than if it is refrigerated, the expiration for most of these pens is up to a year. So the information that I am providing is based on the best scenario for the patient and also keeping in mind that not everyone's home is "room temperature". I would rather err on the side of caution than do the minimum - so I will stick with advising patients to leave the pens out of refrigeration no more than 5 hours but of course you can do what works for you.
They also highly recommend a 500 calorie deficit in your intake of food as well as 150 minutes so exercise a week. Thus is not a miracle drug. It is there to make it easier for you to stick to your diet.
Technically yes. Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide when used for Type II Diabetes and Zepbound is tirzepatide when used for weight loss. The medication, doses, side effects profile and delivery system are the same.
You lost me when you injected it on your hand even for demonstration purposes, this is wildly inappropriate and dangerous. 4 people watching this also. Yes, you do have to put it in the sharp's container. You're not very bright, are you? Thank goodness.I wouldn't go to your clinic
@@Bodogable she used a “demo pen” which has no needle in it. I am currently taking this medication and before I took my first dose, they used a demo pen to show me how to inject it. It is just the working mechanism with no needle. She did nothing wrong or irresponsible.
This is the best video I have seen yet. Dr. Covington do you feel this is a good fit for women who are in peri-menopause and/or for patients looking to lose less than 40 pounds?
This medication is FDA approved for people who obese or overweight with comorbidities. It’s not for cosmetic weight loss only - just like Wegovy.
Disclaimer - not providing formal medical advice be sure to consult someone who knows your medical history well ** but I want to answer your question. Yes. I think it can be a great option for weight loss in general including post menopause but dont count out the other FDA approved weight loss medications - there are many that perform well post menopause and if something does not work after 1-3 months don't be afraid to try something else.
@@BoringTroublemaker 👍🏻
Great question. I just went into full menopause and the weight has come out of nowhere! I do have one other medical issue, but this weight is just coming for no reason....lol. Anyway, thanks for the question and Thank You Dr Covington for this very important information.
After menopause the weight just came on no matter how little I ate or how much I walked. I blame a lot on the fact that I’m a nightshift worker and my sleep terrible. I have Zepbound. My insurance did NOT. Pay for it . I paid out of pocket which was a struggle. Now I’m afraid to use it so I’m trying to find out as much information as I can about it.
Yall, these medications are truly revolutionary. I have been on a generic Semaglutide, which only has the 1 receptor site as opposed to Zep that has 2, but even with it only acting on the one site as it was explained to me by my provider I have went from 215lbs to 175lbs in less than 4 months. 40lbs!!
Tiltrating up to an effective dosage was the only slow moving and thus frustrating part. Eventually the lbs literally just fell off. It was honestly so effortless. Truly amazing. Goal weight is about 165lbs. Almost there!! I couldn’t recommend these drugs more!
Excellent video doc!
@@Nita24t What dosage worked for you? I'm on 5mg and not losing much :(
Thank you! I’ve had excellent results on Zepbound. Fried foods definitely a no-no.. you will be sick or have reflux.
I just got mine and I'm going to start it today. I was looking for the video that'll show how to auto inject it I'm so glad that I found this video. Your explanation was amazing, so clear. My insurance has approved it. I hope it will still approve it on the coming insurance election.
Thankfully it was covered by my insurance & took my 1st shot today with so far thanks be to God no side effects & hope it’ll stay that way
Good morning!
I’m having a bit trouble getting approved by mine. I’m going through the appeal process. Did you have any trouble? Any advice will, help thank you!
Oh my... Do not unlock the pen until the guard is off and is on the injection site. Very clear in the directions!
Requesting a ‘prior authorization’ from your pharmacy to have you doctor fill out stating that this is the patient’s best option will get you the medication even if you have federal insurance. I have Medicare and Medicaid. Medicare told me directly about this and what to have my doctor say in order for them to approve it. Most medication I take I had to do a prior authorization and as a result, I got everything approved and I pay zero dollars. Simply call your insurance and bring up prior authorization and they’ll tell you willingly how that works for any medication your doctor thinks is important for you to take.
I was denied after PA.
@@kassiebyers2121 your insurance can fax over additional questions to your doctor which betters your chances of getting approved and the insurance will recommend for you to try alternatives like WeGovy but your doctor can simply say ZepBound is your best option. It’s relying on your doctor to communicate effectively that I have found to be the tricky part but ironically it’s your insurance that is more than willing to cover the medication only if your doctor makes it clear that ZepBound is your best option.
@@kassiebyers2121 Make sure the correct diagnosis of obesity was provided on the PA by your Dr. It should be covered if your insurance provides coverage for weight loss medication.
My dr won’t do it for me. Says she thinks I just need to diet and exercise more and that I’m not doing enough. She is extremely skinny and an environmentalist that believes in natural means and won’t approve it for me.. I don’t know what to do.
I have RO app for my weight loss health care. Can the dr online fill out this form for me to get my fed insurance to cover it?
Just started mines yesterday my insurance cover it Thank God🙏🏾
Thank you for your complete guide to zepbound it help me get a good understanding of the medicine 💊 ❤
Great video! Thanks Dr! I was on wegovy I lost 35 lbs then although still on the weekly shots weight was coming back as I’m in menopause . I started Zepbound so let’s hope .
North Carolina made Zepbound available as a weight loss drug with mandatory coverage with state Medicaid. Otherwise I never could have afforded it. It's working, which really helps my heart condition.
That is awesome news.
I’m so excited I’ve lost 10lbs in the last month on 2.5.. I do exercise and watch what I eat… the absolute best thing.. is I only pay $30 a box; yes I said a box 1,2,3, & 4 dosages . I work at a hospital. We have an employee pharmacy. My PCP love him knows his stuff and that is how I was prescribed… I have my 5 mg dosages for June already with Two refills..
I was just in Charlotte a few weeks ago!! Beautiful city. I am finally starting my Zepbound journey after several weeks of insurance denials, and backorders. Your video is very informative and I am working with my GP and a Weightloss team. I am already 5 weeks into my high protein/low carb healthy eating journey but it's the food chatter and cravings still getting me. I look forward to more of your videos!
@@cathytik23 hi, how did you get it to go through after being denied? Is there something specific you have to do for approval? Thanks!
@@BellaDay-fz2ci my doctor appealed it and it finally went through.
I have united when I first tried to get zep it wouldn’t cover but I called my insurance and my prescription provider which was Caremark and was able to get it covered under my primary care provider. For weight loss medication so in February they wouldn’t cover it but in April they did. 🎉🎉🎉 23 pounds down in 4 weeks. 🎉
Oh, wow I'm so excited for you and myself i start tomorrow my insurance covered it for 24.99 In so happy
We you paid to say this or serious? 23lbs in a month???
I'm excited..same happend to me. Now I'm covered
I should be starting today or tomorrow. Good luck!
@@BlackDragonRuler how
Do you guys did to get it covered
@@Creole202YHWHwifeI’m very serious. I started 260 I’m now down to 224 but the thing is I already knew how to workout and watch and count my calories. I needed help with the mental cravings. That kept me falling off the wagon. Still not perfect because when I started I had 3 vacations sure I fell off but I bounced back to the weight that I lost compared to when I was doing it on my own doing keto and gym I would take way longer to get back to the weight before vacation now I’m maintaining the weight. But honestly I figured by now I’d be down 50 pounds. But I’ll get there eventually.
Thanks so much for this video and the info, my doctor just wrote a script for me for Zepbound and sent me out the door, so its great to learn about this drug!
I have taken Zepbound for 3 weeks now. I paid $$$$ out the nose to try it. It has helped me soooooooo much! I would love to keep taking it. Only slight nausea and some constipation but I’m feeling better after the 3rd dose. I’ve lost a little over 8.5lbs in the last 3 weeks! I’m going to be trying to get my insurance to help me cover the cost of my prescription as I’m on Medicaid… I’m praying they help me out!!!!! 😊 Thanks to everyone for help on this matter! I do work for the federal government but can’t get new health insurance until after November 1st and it won’t be effective until Jan of 2025… so I’m hoping Medicaid will come thru for me now that I’ve tried it and got great results!!! I’m really pumped about it. Injections didn’t hurt at all. Can’t even feel it. Getting blood drawn or a vaccine from the hospital hurts waaaaaaaaay more! This is not even anything in comparison at all!!!
Thank you so much Dr. Covington! Your video was very helpful. I’m seriously thinking of starting Zepbound and was very skeptical but your video gave some valuable information. I greatly appreciate it! I’m near Hilton Head, if closer I would come by to pick your brain 😅. Thanks again Doc.
I just got mine was covered with Highmark only had to pay $25
What is Highmark?
@cait7231001 That’s great! Mine costed $99.99. In going to look for a coupon for my next fill. How are you doing so far?
@@lunaluxaz is there a POC for Highmark?
Is it bc/bs high mark
Are you diabetic?
Thank you for this video! I am about to start my journey and you were very informational!
How is it going?
@@highlyfavoredMGit has been going good! First month, I loss 12lbs. I am now on the 5mg.
Thank you so much for sharing your expertise! This helps so much and I appreciate it!
EXCELLENT VIDEO AND DEMONSTRATIONS!!!😊
I’m 43 and thinking of these options. I’m worried about the mental health part of these, or the possible pancreas damage
Me too. I want to try it but am worried about side affects
Even common Tylenol has side effects
Thanks for that thorough explanation
Yes God. I am in SC and I will come to NC to see if if needed
Why is it so expensive in America? It’s like £120 in the UK.
@@dazt66 is it a prescription or over the counter in UK (London)?
What if you lose the desire weight, start eating better, and exercise can you stop taking it and maintain the weight lose?
If you have the discipline, yes. Habits are difficult to change.
Helpful and pertinent info. Thanks!!
Eli Lilly recommends disposal in a Sharps. They also recommend rotating the injection sites: alternate sides and locations. I started in the right side, belly, then leg, then back of arm. I will begin injecting the left sides in all three areas.
Thank you for sharing and I know that you are correct, however, it is very impractical. These pens are 6-7 inches long they will quickly fill most sharps containers in a shorter than usual timeframe and patients may not realize sharps removal is a professional medical paid service that is usually only provided for medical establishments and labs. But if you've found companies that will do this residentially definitely share because I dont know any. For liability and manpower reasons I also dont know any medical offices that allow patients to drop off full sharps containers either.
@@DrMelodyCovingtonMD I use a sharps container and then dispose of the sealed sharps in with my trash. I don’t know of another way… but they do recommend using the sharps. I was just clarifying.
Its a great point and something that should be clarified and discussed. Our state law (North Carolina), considers sharps generated and used in private homes to not require medical waste disposal and the recommendation is that the sharps be "walled off". The lancet (or needle) recoils into the pen so it is walled off upon disposal (my interpretation), however, using your sharps container is responsible and definitely not wrong.@@jayleigh_bee
You can create your own sharps container with an old Tide Pod or Detergent jug if you label it properly. Hope that helps!
@@crystalrose955 this is solid!
Are GLP-1 medications recommended for cases of insulin resistance where there is no diabetes present, such as with PCOS?
Thank you so very much!
You are correct - Tricare does cover, depending on the plan. I have tricare select, and it is 100% covered with a PA. Not too sure about the other Tricare plans!
@mychalhicks970 mine was covered but im still paying $43 per box. I won't complain because I could be paying a lot more. How are you doing with them authorizing increased dosages?
@@shenikacrowell601 still $43. I got upped twice for dosage & it’s been $43 straight down the line!
@@shenikacrowell601 all you need to do is make sure your PRIOR AUTHORIZATION is approved by Tricare. No need to worry about them denying a bigger dosage, since they authorized your treatment!
I am week 2. My first week was amazing, this week has been a bit harder. I'm on beginning 2.5 mg. This is one of the better videos I've found. Thank you!
Thanks for the information about this. I'm thinking of getting this med. Btw, why did you demonstrate the injecting on your hand? Kind of wasting 1 dose just to show us here. And, is there any affect to you and your hand for injecting that med? Just asking..
Fries and chips count?.. well dang 😂
I was on Wegovy for 1 month back in September and could not get it again due to the shortage. It worked excellent for me. I had no cravings and was barely hungry. I started Zepbound 2.5 this month (Jan). I am taking my third shot today and haven’t had much of a decrease in my appetite and still have cravings. Is this normal with Zepbound? The Wegovy worked within 2 days of taking it. I had horrible nausea with the Wegovy, none with Zepbound. Thanks
I have been prescribed Wegovy 0.25mg and have not been able to get the medicine due to a shortage. FEP BCBS says, "I have to try Wegovy first, and if it doesn't work, they will approve Zepbound." How did you get, Zepbound?
I took 0.25 Ozempic for a few months last year, stopped and then started taking Mounjaro in Oct. I would say the low dosage of O was more effective for .e compared to the 2.5 of Mounjaro but once I went up to 5mgs the cravings were gone and my appetite drastically decreased. I am now on 7.5 which is the maintenance dosage my Doc has me on for the next 6 months.
I've gone from 190lbs to 165 in 4 months of taking Mounjaro. I also had terrible constipation with O, and have not experienced that with any of the dosage amounts of Mounjaro.
I just started Zepbound yesterday and I'm curious and nervous about the nausea feeling. So it is refreshing to hear that you didn't experience nausea. But I was recommended to take metamucil for the prevention of constipation. So I'll try it
Hi! I just started Zepbound & was prescribed 2.5. I took my second shot this week. I haven't noticed any changes in my appetite or had any symptoms not even nausea. Can you please share an update on your progress ?
I started zepbound. I lost my appetite within hours of my first dose, i have felt ok but little nauseous here and there. I didn't think the injection happened because i didnt feel it, but here i am 3 days later, still not wanting a full plate of food. Ive been making myself eat some rrail mix, an egg and a turkey sausage. Im also a bit tired, but i know that will pass. Headaches due to not drinking my morning coffee because it was advised not to.
Hi, has you seen an increase in thyroid cancer and kidney failure in your patients, or that you’ve heard through studies and from colleagues?
Thank you very much
Thank you. Awesome video🎉
I’m on zepbound..I don’t have any nausea, but I wake up in the middle of the night with bile burning my throat which makes me cough for about an hour! Should I quit? Does anyone else have this problem?
You should let your physician know if you already haven’t :) I have a similar condition at night with the acid reflux and wake up coughing . There are medications for this .
Hey, Good Morning Dr. Paul from NYC . So I just use the medication just now for the very first time. I even had this video to show me how’s it’s done . I’m a very big fella but when I minister the medication I didn’t hear the final click ,after the first click when I inject myself . So I waited and count to 20 and release ..should I be worry ? I guess I had the video playing at the same time as me injecting myself . Maybe I didn’t hear it cuz of the soundtrack of the video ? U think ?
very informative thank you
I tried Lilly coupon at Walgreens with Cigna insurance didn’t work at all! Just an FYI for all interested.
I just tried a coupon thank god it actually worked and brought the amount down to $500 more than 50%
My coupon at Walgreens, and I have Kaiser, was $10. I pray this continues. Picked up first dose today!
Dr Covington..thank you for allowing questions. In your opinion, would this drug be safe for a person with type II diabetes,stage III chronic kidney disease (1.6 creatinine & eGFR 34 & 70 yrs old) & hiatal hernia/reflux?
I would talk to your nephrologist. I have CKD and I'm on Mounjaro and doing pretty good on it thus far. I'll know for sure when I get my blood work done next month.
I just started this med 1 week ago looking for more info
Thanks for sharing, did that injection cause any pain in your hand… it seems like it should have, but you didn’t even flinch.🤔🧐🤷🏽♀️👌🏽. Again, thanks.
It wasn’t a real injection pen
My sister just got this but hasnt applied it yet. She is afraid. She is not diabetic but because of her thyroids levels going up and down (even with medication) she gained weight after being thin for a long time. So her doctor prescribed her this. I found that with these medications, you have to make sure you are always hydrated. Strength training is important to prevent muscle loss. Eating veggies and fruits help move the bowels. Move your body at least 10-15 minutes after you eat. I was on ozempic then insurance issues prevented me from getting it ( surprise, surprise, not!) So now i just started Trulicity, applied it on my thight and man that hurt! All im saying is educate yourself on these, do your part and you will definitely see results. I lost 30 lbs.
12 years from now the class action lawsuit commercial will sound something like, "if you took Zepbound you may be entitled to damages." LOL
Doc, what’s the best time of day to take zepbound?
I am getting weekly injections of Tirzepatide at a weight loss clinic run by an MD. The doctor also gives semiglutide injections. He told me that the semiglutide is from a compounding pharmacy but the Tirzepatide is from Eli Lilly, which is why he charges a little more for the shots ($60 a shot for semiglutide, $80 for Tirzepatide). He has started me on 2.0 of Tirzepatide, but I’ve read it should the starting dose should be 2.5? Does this sound right to you? How do you feel about getting either drug from a compounding pharmacy?
Yes he should be starting at 2.5 2 nd week
I have been taking semaglutide (compounded because Wegovy is unavailable) since February. I started out at 2.5 and have been there since. Next month I will up the dosage because I am noticing that it is no longer working as it once was. But I was planning on asking my doctor about this Zepbound because I thought it might be readily available versus the Wegovy.
Nice video!
Do you think it can cause numbness in legs and arms?
I came straight out the gate with 12.5 mounjaro and didn't have any side affects.
Thank you so much for your time to explain this meditation. I took Monjaro a few months ago and had horrible sidefects with nausea cramping and vomiting. The Dr never told me about this. I also just prescribed Zepbound and took my first dose this morning. I k ew it was basically the same as monjaro, so this time I ate light a few days leading up to taking the first dose. Hopefully I can stave off the nausea and cramping.
But again thank you for taking time to explain this medicication and other nutrition information
I'm on my second week of Zepbound. I don't see a difference is that bad.😮
My first 2 Zepbound 2.5 injections went great, just a tingle on my left foot/leg, like it had fallen asleep. Injection #3 in where it went south, my right eye saw a golden and yellow color hues. The next day I couldn't read the street signs with either eye. It did resolve after a number of days, but my doctor and I came to the conclusion I should stop taking it. I did begin having some pain behind my knees, but that seems to have been reported a lot on Reddit, and I'm sure it will resolve over the coming days. I hate that I had these side effects on this because it was working so well for me. I immediately jumped back to my typical low carb diet so I don't gain back the 10 pounds I got off while on Zepbound.
If you don't mind answering. Are you on other medications? Why would it affect your eyesight?
I have been prescribed Wegovy 0.25mg, and there is a shortage, so I have not been able to get the medication. My provider ordered Zepbound, and FEP BCBS is denying the coverage because I have to try Wegovy first. From a provider perspective, is there anything my provider can say to get FEP BCBS to approve, Zepbound?
Me too - Couldn't find it via insurance however I obtained the medication from a private physician and paid for it out of pocket. Unfortunately, it is available but through self pay
Unfortunately not but there is a possibility it will be picked up by your insurance company OR a possibility you can find the rare pharmacy in your area that does have Wegovy to start in the meantime.
For weight loss medicine prescription - must have in-person physical examination and vitals Plenity . This is not clear to me about Virtual Medicine appointments.
It is because Plenity is not considered a "medication" it is classified as a device so does not require in person physical examination. But the exam requirement varies by provider. I personally prefer to see anyone who I prescribe a medication in person first and get an accurate weight, vitals, and perform physical exam but not all clinics or states require that.
You just mentioned the coupon.! Have downloaded the coupon. The first time i used it the medicine was 25.00 but this time it was 53.00 ??
Would you personally feel comfortable taking it?
Yes I would. Although Zepbound is newer I've prescribed GLP1s my entire career and I've seen them change patient's lives and improve quality of life as well. When its safe and effective its great... for patients who cant tolerate the medications or are not getting results - we discontinue and try something else.
If you decide to do the arm, will it help with losing weight in the arm?
How and where did you lose weight depends on genetics not shot location.
It’s horrible that most commercial insurance providers don’t cover this knowing that this can help prevent major chronic illnesses!
I left mine out for 3 days. Should it be ok?
question, I have celiac and some digestive issues, I have read if you have digestive issues you cannot take ,is this true?
How do you micro-dose the pens?
Medicaid covers it aswell since August 2024
Do you have to be on a diet to lose weight? Also, I heard one of the side effects is thyroid cancer
Can u tell me when the best time to take it am or pm
Anytime of day is fine just stick with what you choose week to week as best you can. I usually suggest mornings so people dont forget but my patients do them any time of day that fits their lifestyle and where they can remain consistent.
If you have a great doctor (like I do), he can document justification for coverage.
Between my insurance and the discount I was lucky enough to get it for $600. I know it's still a lot but it's half off at least😏 lol
Thanks for the video. My doctor prescribed zepbound for me about month ago. I applied for the discount card and just got it yesterday for $550. My question is, my doctor said the month's supply can be spread out to last a little longer. I'm supposed to get some syringes and viles then go back to see the doctor and they'll show me what to do. Is this true as far as you know? Can the medicine stretch a little farther so I'm not buying it every month?
They give four injectors a month, one for a week. You can in no way stretch it over a month
You don't believe in skipping meals? So no intermittent fasting?
Has anyone tried it after getting gastric sleeve?
@@katherineadames8506 me, I got sleeved in 2016 lost 52 and gain 40. Today is Day 4 on 2.5 and so far I have no side effects and doing well. I eat small meals, low carbs, high protein, lots of water, and walk 4-6 times per week. I just need to be consistent. Goal is to lose 52lbs in 6-7 months.
I swear I saw you in Charlotte
Wrong info given ➡️➡️ The website and instructions in the box literally say it can be stored room temp for 21 days not only 5 hours. Im sure the best way is in the fride 36-46 degrees (check your fridge temps) but it can be room temperature up to 86 degrees for 21 days and it is perfectly fine.
"Can be" and should be are not the same. The information that I am providing is directly from our company reps. The company also says that "if needed" to store at room temperature up to 21 days but of course that is not ideal. If it stays at room temperature for 21 days you speed up the degradation process and have to discard the pens much earlier than if it is refrigerated, the expiration for most of these pens is up to a year. So the information that I am providing is based on the best scenario for the patient and also keeping in mind that not everyone's home is "room temperature". I would rather err on the side of caution than do the minimum - so I will stick with advising patients to leave the pens out of refrigeration no more than 5 hours but of course you can do what works for you.
Are you a doctor?
Can be and should be- love that!!!!
@@Libramami64who are you asking if they are a doctor? I’m confused.
My Dr also told me to keep it refrigerated. Thank you for this video.
They also highly recommend a 500 calorie deficit in your intake of food as well as 150 minutes so exercise a week. Thus is not a miracle drug. It is there to make it easier for you to stick to your diet.
It's easier to maintain that calorie deficit when you don't get hungry.
Is this Mounjaro??
Technically yes. Mounjaro is the brand name for tirzepatide when used for Type II Diabetes and Zepbound is tirzepatide when used for weight loss. The medication, doses, side effects profile and delivery system are the same.
@@DrMelodyCovingtonMD if it's to help with weight loss, why aren't insurance companies won't cover it?
Another civil class action lawsuit..
Am i the only one who gets diarrhea for 2 to 3 days after every injection?
Helps you lose more weight!
Few lies I have federal insurance and they approved it
😅
Those nails though
so unprofessional hands, and distorted long time cancerogenic effects - paid commercial, no ethics.
You lost me when you injected it on your hand even for demonstration purposes, this is wildly inappropriate and dangerous. 4 people watching this also. Yes, you do have to put it in the sharp's container. You're not very bright, are you? Thank goodness.I wouldn't go to your clinic
@@Bodogable she used a “demo pen” which has no needle in it. I am currently taking this medication and before I took my first dose, they used a demo pen to show me how to inject it. It is just the working mechanism with no needle. She did nothing wrong or irresponsible.