Recent breakthroughs in weight loss research have introduced several new medications specifically indicated for chronic weight management. While liraglutide (Saxenda) was the first GLP-1 agonist approved for weight loss, semaglutide (Wegovy) became the first once-weekly GLP-1 medication to receive FDA approval for weight management. Now, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved tirzepatide—branded as Zepbound—for weight loss. Northwest Face & Body is proud to offer our Zepbound weight loss program to patients on the Eastside. Our providers at Northwest Face & Body have developed a comprehensive Zepbound weight loss program in Bellevue and Kirkland led by experienced clinical professionals.
Zepbound is a once-weekly injectable medication now approved for chronic weight management. While it is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonist, it also activates the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor. This makes it a “dual agonist.” Instead of activating just one hormone receptor, Zepbound activates two. Due to this, many people find Zepbound injections highly effective and sometimes associated with fewer side effects, though results and reactions can vary between individuals.
When Zepbound activates the GLP-1 and GIP receptors, it helps patients feel full sooner and for a longer duration. Zepbound injections can reduce cravings and overall hunger. Zepbound also slows how quickly the stomach empties, further extending feelings of fullness. Combined with a traditional diet-and-exercise approach, many patients see significant weight loss over the course of several months.
At Northwest Face & Body, our providers will prescribe the appropriate dosage and offer guidance on exercise and diet. You do not need to make extreme changes to see results with Zepbound treatment in Bellevue, though healthy lifestyle adjustments are always encouraged.
Patients participating in the Zepbound program at Northwest Face & Body in Bellevue may experience a variety of benefits. Some potential advantages of Zepbound include:
Every patient is unique and presents with individual goals and health considerations. Therefore, our providers tailor each aspect of the program—including dosage, a general diet plan that works well with Zepbound and exercises that will help you but fat—to help each patient achieve optimal benefits.
Candidates for Zepbound injections in Bellevue typically have a body mass index (BMI) classified as “overweight” or “obese.” However, at Northwest Face & Body we have no minimum or maximum BMI that patients are required to be at to be on Zepbound. Patients seeking Zepbound should generally be in good overall health without significant heart or bleeding disorders. A personal or family history of certain thyroid or pancreatic issues may require further evaluation to determine candidacy.
Because Zepbound is a prescription medication, Northwest Face & Body requires patients to attend a consultation first—either in person or virtually. During this appointment, your provider will discuss your weight loss goals, medical history, lifestyle factors, and what to expect from treatment.
If you’re found to be a suitable candidate, your provider will demonstrate how to self-administer Zepbound injections. The needle is small, and the medication is delivered subcutaneously (just under the skin). These shallow injections are generally easy to administer and involve minimal discomfort. Some minor bleeding, redness, or swelling at the injection site may occur initially, but it should resolve on its own. Your body will likely adapt to the injections over time.
Zepbound can be injected into the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. It’s recommended to rotate injection sites weekly to minimize skin irritation. You may receive Zepbound in a traditional syringe or via an injection pen; both work by placing the needle under the skin so the medication can reach the bloodstream quickly.
After a few in-office demonstrations, most patients feel comfortable self-administering the injections. A spouse or family member can also give the injections if that is preferable. If a patient remains uncomfortable with self-injection, they are welcome to visit the clinic weekly for one of our medical professionals to administer the shot.
It may take several weeks—or even months—to see visible results, though the scale often reflects weight changes earlier. Generally, patients should use Zepbound for at least six months, with many experiencing the best results between twelve and sixteen months. Depending on the amount of weight you want or need to lose, the timeline for seeing visible changes can vary.
Studies of Zepbound have shown significant percentage weight loss across various doses. Patients who follow a consistent diet and exercise routine typically see more dramatic results. Northwest Face & Body also schedules monthly follow-up appointments to track progress and ensure patient safety.
No. Though both are GLP-1 medications, Zepboun also targets a second hormone receptor (GIP), making it a dual agonist. Because of their similar mechanisms, Zepbound and semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) are not taken simultaneously. Many patients report fewer side effects with Zepbound, but individual responses vary.
Generally, it’s recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Zepbound. Alcohol can contribute to weight gain, and it may also interact with the medication, leading to dangerously low blood sugar. An occasional drink might be acceptable, but discuss this with your provider if you plan to consume alcohol during your Zepbound weight loss program. Additionally, learn to recognize the signs of extremely low blood sugar and know what steps to take if it occurs.
No. Zepbound is currently available only as an injection.
Most patients report minimal discomfort. Subcutaneous injections are relatively quick and often less painful than intramuscular or intravenous injections. Many people barely feel it.
At Northwest Face & Body, our Zepbound weight loss program starts at $199 per month. This includes:
Currently, some insurance plans do cover Zepbound for weight loss under specific circumstances, and our program includes submitting a single prior authorization to help get your medication covered. For those without insurance, Eli Lilly offers a self-pay program. Under this program, you receive four weekly vials per month: either four 2.5-mg vials for $399 or four 5-mg vials for $549. These prices reflect one-month prescriptions, with each vial intended for weekly use.
Northwest Face & Body has served the Eastside of Lake Washington for three decades. Our providers are recognized leaders in their fields and use a compassionate, expert-driven approach to tailor each patient’s Zepbound weight loss program. We strive to offer the best Zepbound treatment available in Bellevue and Kirkland.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call us at 425-576-1700. You can also reach us online via live chat, contact form, or our online booking system.
Tina was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas, but left her home state to explore the mountains of Washington. Drawn to the aesthetic medicine business, Tina graduated from UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas as a certified Physician Assistant. Before she graduated, she knew he wanted to relocate to Seattle and join our company. Her love for helping patients grow and her incredible knowledge brought her to our team!