Zepbound and Constipation: What Users Say

• Fra...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 8, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been on the lowest dosage of Zepbound for about 3-4 months. I’ve lost 22-25 pounds. No, I haven’t increased the time spent exercising. But I am no longer hungry and stuffing junk food into my mouth. My tongue hasn’t forgotten it loves Snickers, but I am able to grab apples and be content. My nephrologist put me on it as I do have kidney disease, I was in the obese range, and I was prediabetic. It’s expensive ($400 per month), but I feel better about myself, and so it’s worth it to me. I was the fat kid in my family and have never been a thin and beautiful person. But Zepbound has given me higher self-esteem because it’s doing what it’s supposed to do… help me to shed weight in a healthy way. I do sometimes experience constipation, then a giant diarrhea round, but I feel good most of the time. I have no other side effects and have been pleased with the assistance Zepbound has given me. Thank you, Lilly Pharma!"

• Mar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 29, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Update on my review from May 25, 2024. I have now been on Zepbound for 16 weeks. Current dosage 10 mg. In these 16 weeks, I have lost 40 pounds, from 204 lb to 164 lb, and my waist size has gone from 40 inches to 36 inches. For context, I am 5'10' tall. Even more incredibly, my blood pressure has decreased from 195/90 to an average of 116/60 as of today. I have more energy and am running regularly 5 days per week. I am also sleeping better, which I think comes from a lessening of sleep apnea symptoms. The only remarkable side effect has been occasional constipation, which is relieved by Miralax. With not only weight loss but improvement in other health measures, I consider my Zepbound treatment to be quite successful!"

• Mik...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 15, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I’m a 6’4", 275-pound male, 62 years old - no diabetes or health issues, on no other meds. Obtained prescription via Dr. and took the first 2.5 mg injection on Dec. 24. Lost 10 pounds with the first 3 shots, then Dr. said I could go to 5 mg (saved the last 2.5 mg pen for future use) because weight loss had stopped. After starting 5 mg, lost 2 pounds in 2 days - so combined weight loss using 2.5/5 mg is now at 12 pounds in six weeks! No significant or terrible side effects except some constipation, intermittent fatigue, and minor chills at times (not a lot - could just be the cold weather). I've yo-yoed up and down with weight for years. Because of my size, I can eat a lot of food - but this drug has significantly reduced my appetite, and I have more energy overall. I can’t wait to see the results in a few more months. Zepbound has so far been perfect for me. I don’t mind the $550 price (with the Lilly savings card - has been hard to get CVS to make it work, but that’s another story/nightmare)."

• JWa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 28, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Zepbound was effective within the first week. I experienced a significant decrease in hunger and decreased interest in food. I also found that I could not always finish a meal serving in one sitting. Initially, I had minor issues in bowel habits (constipation and diarrhea). Both symptoms are minor and managed with adequate hydration and fiber-rich foods. More disconcerting have been the “egg burps” caused by bacterial action on sulfur-rich foods in a slowed GI system. I have selected less sulfur-rich foods and make a concerted effort to drink more water during a day or two following the weekly injection. This side effect seems to have moderated, perhaps as I am into the second month of my current dosage and third month on Zepbound and/or temporarily minimizing sulfurous food intake in a short period following injection. I also track my food intake and assure I am eating an adequate level of protein. I have lost 15 pounds in 10 weeks. I am 77 and a woman."

• foo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 22, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I've been on this medication for 6 weeks and have never felt better about my body or my day. I didn't realize I could have a day where I wasn't thinking about food from the minute I got up until I fell asleep at night. I feel free to think about other things and to not be distracted by trying to have willpower to not eat. It's a huge relief. Is this what thin people feel like? People who have never struggled with being overweight? I have always thought my weight was based on my genetics, and maybe it is-but it's also my brain that literally is addicted to food. It feels like I've been released from an addiction. I haven't noticed any side effects. I tried Ozempic before this and was very constipated and had stomach issues. I don't feel that way at all on Zepbound, my stomach is fine. I'm on 2.5, it's very easy to administer, and I feel like it really works. I hope I'm able to take it for a long time, I'm sort of afraid to go back to the brain I had before taking it."

• CJa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 1, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started 3 months ago with the 2 ml, then 5, and now 7.5. I have been nauseous every single day for those 3 months. I have been constipated almost every week. I finally am able to go. I noticed that after the injection, I vomit every time the next day. I am 5'7 and weighed 233. I am now 209. The nausea is sometimes unbearable. I feel like not taking this medicine. Everyone's body is different."

• Dee...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 6, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started in January and have moved doses up monthly. This morning I took my 4th 7.5 mg dose. I did have a 2.5 mg pen malfunction and moved up to 5 a week early. I've been losing 1-3 pounds a week, for a total today of 28 lb loss. My goal is to lose 50. As far as side effects, they really aren't too bad for me. Daily Colace helps any constipation, which has not been much of an issue anyway. Occasional nausea is fleeting and is helped with Coke One. I know some are against drinking soda, but Coke One does not have sugar and has been my nausea cure for as long as it's been on the market. My appetite is diminished, but not gone. I've changed my eating pattern to several small, healthy mini-meals during the day instead of 3 'regular' meals. Zero cravings for junk food or much snacking at all. Part, I'm sure, is that I'm keeping those mini meals full of protein and vegetables. The only real issue that I've had is fatigue. It hits about an hour after the shot and lasts about 36 h."

• NJ-...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 23, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I've finished my 5th month of Zepbound injections. The dose pen makes the injection simple and painless. It took me a few weeks to actually feel that this was changing my appetite or cravings, but once it did, I have no problem resisting the habitual munching. Although my diet changes have helped the amount of food I eat at one time, I don't get the full feeling that a lot of people talk about. So I have to know when to push away from the servings. This was prescribed for weight loss, but I do have sleep apnea as well. I've lost 20 lbs, which matches the estimated 1 lb per week under this med. My goal weight is a 40 lb reduction. The only side effects that I've noticed are primarily increased gas and constipation if I don't push the fluids. So far, it's been a positive experience and I look forward to added results."

• Sus...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 19, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Been taking Zepbound 2.5 mg for four weeks - just had my fifth injection last night. Started at 254 lbs. and have lost 18 lbs!! My last weigh-in was 236 lbs.! The only annoying side effect I had was mild constipation. I had no idea what food noise was until it was gone. Wow. Finally understand what it is to be normal. Not sure what my goal weight will be yet, somewhere between 175-150 lbs. I'm in my early 50s and finally confident I'll have sustainable weight loss."

• Mar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 25, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Started using Zepbound in March 2024, at 2.5 mg. History of Obesity (BMI > 29) and Hypertension. Starting weight was 202 lb. and Blood Pressure Avg. of 153/90. As of today, May 24, 2024, currently on 10mg. My weight is currently 177 lb, having lost 25 lbs (12%) of starting weight. It was easy to learn how to use the injection pen, and it is a painless process. I am also exercising, running 4-5 days per week and weight training 2 days per week. Exercise is an important adjunct to weight loss treatment, and can help maintain muscle mass while losing weight. It is also imperative to eat foods rich in protein and green, leafy vegetables. Side effects have been minimal, with occasional constipation, which is remedied by using Miralax or similar products."

• KCP...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 30, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Life-changing. Down 30 pounds in 5 months. Within a few hours of the first dose, I experienced hunger suppression, increased satiety, and best of all, reduced food noise. I thought about food 24/7 before taking this medication. Despite tracking calories and eating whole foods and eliminating most sugar, I always craved sweet and high-fat foods like ice cream and felt hungry even after a meal. On this medication, I crave veggies and fruit and protein. Side effects: as a woman going through menopause, the hot flashes have been miserable. I also have always had an extreme heat intolerance for hot weather. On this medication, hot flashes are gone and I've enjoyed summer for the first time in my life. Negative side effect: constipation. Easily manageable with Miralax and Benefiber."

• cli...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 31, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I asked my doctor about starting Wegovy since my efforts weren't working, but she recommended Zepbound - and I am so glad she did! My appetite is no longer controlling me, and yet those pre-diabetic low blood sugar drops are gone. After 3 months at the 5 mg dose, I'm still consistently losing about 1% of my weight each week. The only side effects are minor constipation and heartburn, but they encourage me to drink more water. I was hesitant to start because...needles...but it's so tiny I don't feel it at all. I wish I had started sooner!"

• Lis...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 29, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Best method for weight loss and keeping the weight off. I've lost over 100 lbs and am finally comfortable in my skin again. When you change mg dosage, fatigue could be concerning, and it does happen. Working out helps, making sure you stay hydrated, and working out was the biggest help for me. I did have constipation, and it was managed. I did have hair thinning and started taking Nutrafol. I've struggled with my weight my entire life. Not anymore. I wish we could add photos, but we can't. Portion food sizes of what you can eat are minimized. The sugar cravings were gone. Not only did those cravings disappear, but so did the cravings for food that your body turns to sugar. For example, I haven't eaten a potato chip in over 7 months. No desire for breads, mayo, Miracle Whip, and numerous other things. I FEEL so much better. It is costly, but so is poor health and obesity. I wish big pharma would realize how many Americans struggle with obesity and cover this through insurance."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 16, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "My side effects are constipation, headaches, vision is foggy, insomnia, stomach pain, nervousness, dehydration, frequent urination, bumps on my labia. It is very easy to use. I have lost 14 pounds in two months. It does cut your hunger."

• Sha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 1, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started using Zepbound on October 31st of this year. The beginning dosage was 2.5 mg. I started to lose 1-3 lbs. a week. The dosage was increased to 5 mg, which I started on the 4th week. Current total loss of 11.5 lbs. My provider has suggested that I increase the dose to 7.5 mg for my next refill. I do have side effects: nausea, constipation, dry mouth. My appetite has diminished, but I have to make a conscientious effort to eat. Cravings for specific foods have gone as well. I have a fear of needles, but do not feel the injections or any discomfort associated with normal 'shots.' Overall, my experience has been a good one, but it is still early."

• Myk...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 20, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Have lost approximately 25 lbs in about 4.5 months. No major side effects. Occasional constipation, but I'm taking fiber supplement gummies, which help with regularity. Taking 7.5 mg dosage at present. Will increase to 10 mg next refill. I feel full for longer periods, which has helped control hunger bingeing. My goal would be to drop another 25-30 lbs. Still looking to start an exercise routine, which I can commit to, but life's demands interrupt my progress. I'm very grateful for this medicine."

• L9-...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 17, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have lost 54 lbs. in 6 months. It’s been easy, my only issues have been constipation and some hair loss. I increased my dosage each month to 15 mg. I am now reducing my dosage to wean off the drug. I wish there was more information about stopping the drug. Also, I had to spend thousands of dollars because it’s so expensive. I worry about stopping the drug."

• chu...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 1, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "5’ 8” and 272 was my starting stats. I did four weeks of 2.5 then went up to 5.0. I am only on my 6th week (4 2.5s and 2 5.0s) and I have already lost 30 pounds. Now, at 242, I am looking to take off another 30-50 pounds. I am trying to be put on a list to have a transplant and have to lose a certain amount of weight to make the list. I give the medication a 100% A+. If you need to drop weight, this is a great medication. Side effects: Constipation. Drink as much water as you can and be prepared to take laxatives to poo. I’m talking rock pebbles harder than pleasing a Gold-digger on a date, you’ll definitely have to take some laxatives to poo. I suggest flavoring your water. It helps. Candy: You will crave sugary candy like Gobstoppers, Sour Patch Kids, Skittles, pretty much anything you can get your hands on. Try dark chocolate almonds and just small nibbles of candy when you get really, really sleepy. Bottom line: It works! It's worth the hard rock poo."

• fat...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 16, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Just under 5 months. Down 36 pounds from size 16 to a 12/14. Almost 50. 5'9'. F. Started at 2.5, of course. Currently on 10mg. The biggest issue for me has been finding the medication in stock. It makes me not think of food until I'm hungry and then I eat a little something. I stay full a long time. I can only assume this is what normal people without food issues are like. I have lost upwards of 100 pounds with very hard work over a period of 2-4 years at two different times in my life. I need help this time around. Even when I was doing well with diet and exercise prior to this medication being available, all I did is think about how many calories I had eaten and how many I had left. I don't even count calories now. I have almost no interest in eating. The day before my injection is due, I am more hungry but still not eating more than 1800c. No real side effects aside from constipation in the beginning. It's amazing."

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 31, 2025

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "No problems at all. At first, I was constipated and was fine after adding MiraLAX to my diet. I wish I could get it cheaper because my insurance doesn’t cover it. I also noticed that I sleep better because of my sleep apnea."

• Bri...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• December 4, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Zepbound has been a godsend. I started at 244 lbs with a BMI of 36. I am down 60 lbs to 184. I started at the end of April, so just a little over 7 months. The only side effect I have had is the expected slow digestion, so you have constipation, with only having bowel movements every 2-3 days on average. However, some days you have a day where you have multiple movements in a day. Due to availability issues, I have not been on the proper dosing. Normally you start at 2.5 mg for the first month, then 5, 7.5, etc., for each month after until you max out at 15 mg. I started at 2.5 mg for the first month, but when I tried finding 5 mg, the only place was my insurance online pharmacy, and they only did 3-month prescriptions -- but 3 months at $100 (and the first month Eli Lilly gave me an $80 discount). I've only been able to find the 5 mg in order to not miss any doses. So, the good news is I was able to sustain the weight loss by staying at the same dose. If you can get it, it works great."

• J W...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 20, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am a 60 y/o female, 5’7” and 288# on August 2, 2024. I was borderline diabetic and felt as though something had to be done considering my family history of diabetes and heart disease. I began Zepbound at the 2.5 dose. Seven weeks later, I weigh 252 and am very happy with my progress. My goal weight is 185, which is realistic for my height. I’m not taking this to become thin, I’m taking it to become healthy. My adverse side effects have been severe constipation and gas, which are easily mitigated with laxatives and gas reducers. I am eating healthier and am no longer controlled by excessive sugar cravings. While I once ordered a large ice cream, I now order a small and split it with my husband. My diet consists primarily of vegetables, and I have to remind myself to include at least a little protein to balance my diet. I am focusing on my relationship with food so I can continue to succeed when I am no longer using the medication after 12 months. My co-pay is $25.00."

• Lyn...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 20, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am happy with the results so far. I have lost 29 lbs in 13 weeks. My goal is 75 lb weight loss. My appetite is far less, and my cravings for sugar have much improved. I have had some constipation and 1 or 2 episodes of nausea but did not vomit. You have to drink water! I started on 2.5 mg and was increased to 5 mg. I'm worried to go to a higher dose due to potential increased side effects, as I have a history of kidney issues. However, since I started the medicine, my Hga1c is normal and lipid panel perfect."

• kan...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 21, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I am a 55-year-old female, 5’7 starting weight 250, started Zepbound 6 weeks ago. 1st month, 2.5 — moved up to 5 2nd month. Probably the most annoying, almost immediate side effects were GERD, bloating, and constipation. However, this did improve quickly when I added more fiber, avoided high-fat, saucy foods, and ate less. I do agree with the others… that it definitely helps your “hunger-food brain.” I can skip a meal without even noticing. I fill up eating a quarter to half of what I would normally eat. I begin getting nauseated while I eat, which makes me stop eating, of course. Now that I've increased from 2.5 to 5, the nausea is a little worse, but intermittent and tolerable. Hoping this will improve once my body adjusts. Overall, still very thankful for this opportunity to try Zepbound. I'm trying to find some type of a meal plan to follow, with sufficient protein and fiber, as well as other foods or supplements to prevent muscle loss, hair loss, constipation, and fatigue."

• Deb...
• August 9, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "It's been a pretty good experience. The top dose I take is 7.5. Side effects: tiredness, a little dizziness, and some constipation. Make sure I eat something, this drug makes you forget about eating. This is what I contribute my dizziness to. I make sure I eat all 3 meals. More like 1/2 portions now. This is teaching me portion control. I've lost 32 lbs in 4 months."