Zepbound is the latest weight loss medication to be approved by the FDA. It was launched at the start of 2024. It’s a rebranded version of Mounjaro, which gained FDA approval as an anti-diabetic in May 2022.
Although both medications are identical in every way, including the delivery method (injection), the drug they provide, Tirzepatide, only has FDA approval for weight loss when it’s distributed under the Zepbound brand name.
Research shows that Tirzepatide can be effective for appetite suppression and weight loss, so there is no denying the new medication’s potential. [1]
Furthermore, doctors have already prescribed Mounjaro as an off-label [2] weight-loss medication and it has performed well in that role.
However, with a list price of $1,059.57 for a 4-week treatment (4 injections), many people may find Zepbound prohibitively expensive to use. Others, who may have deeper pockets or better insurance, may find the medications unavailable to them due to FDA distribution restrictions relating to BMI (body mass index).
Tirzepatide can also cause side effects and may present a number of severe health risks so, one way or another, throughout 2024, many people are going to be seeking Zepbound Alternatives.
Top Over-the-Counter Alternatives to Zepbound
- PhenQ (Editor’s Pick)
- Phen24
- Berbaprime
Based on the strength of their ingredient profiles and customer reviews, the above three supplements are the best options to use instead of Zepbound throughout 2024.
All of them are produced to high-quality standards, are reasonably priced, and have long money-back guarantees.
The 3 Best (OTC) Zepbound Alternatives Reviewed and Compared
Before we take a look at the top 3 options, we need to point out that the focus of this article is weight loss, not blood sugar control. Although some of the supplements contain ingredients that can have a favorable influence on blood glucose and insulin levels, we are not suggesting anyone use them to replace or support the actions of diabetes medicines.
#1 – PhenQ (Best Zepbound Alternative OTC)
The most popular Zepbound alternative is PhenQ – it is also most effective according to industry crirtics.
Due to the far-reaching level of support it offers and the profusion of excellent customer feedback, we rate PhenQ as the top option for people who are looking for a good alternative to Zepbound.
PhenQ’s efficacy is attributed to its unique blend of ingredients that work synergistically to:
- Suppress Appetite: Ingredients like nopal cactus extract increase satiety, helping PhenQ users to feel fuller for longer and avoid overeating.
- Boost Metabolism: Several of the PhenQ ingredients increase thermogenesis and metabolism, making it possible to burn more calories per day, even while the body is at rest. Capsicum extract is a good example. It also provides several additional weight management benefits including appetite suppression.
- Inhibit Fat Production: The key compound in capsicum peppers has also been shown to inhibit adipogenesis – the formation of new fat cells. By doing so it reduces the likelihood of weight gain.
- Enhance Energy Levels: energy slumps and fatigue are some of the most unpleasant aspects of low-calorie dieting. PhenQ combats this by providing caffeine and other ingredients that increase energy levels and vitality.
- Improve Mood: Dieting can affect mood and motivation. PhenQ has mood-enhancing properties that make it easier to maintain a positive state of mind during your weight loss journey.
More than 190,000 people have already lost weight with PhenQ and, unlike Zepbound, the supplement has no known side effects. It’s cheaper, safer, and has the backing of a 60-day money-back guarantee.
#2 – Phen24
Next up is Phen24, a weight management supplement that takes an innovative approach to weight loss by providing two distinct formulas. It’s a 24-hour solution that’s designed to complement the body’s natural circadian rhythm, supporting continuous weight loss and metabolic support.
The daytime pills focus on increasing metabolism, thereby enhancing calorie expenditure during daily activities and exercise pursuits. It primarily achieves this by providing caffeine and cayenne pepper extract to increase metabolism via thermogenesis.
The caffeine in the daytime pills also wards off fatigue so that the weight loss process does not interfere with productivity or quality of life. The formula also provides several nutrients and herbal extracts that back up caffeine’s actions, enhancing the benefits.
The Nighttime pills are stimulant-free. They go the other way instead by providing amino acids and herbal extracts that calm the mind and aid restful sleep.
Griffonian seed extract is one of the most important ingredients in the nighttime formula. In addition to supporting weight loss, it also offers protection from insomnia and depression.
Choline is another valuable inclusion. However, although it has been linked to better quality sleep, it has much better credentials as a fat burner.
Phen24’s value lies in its comprehensive approach to supporting weight loss efforts day and night. By considering the body’s different metabolic needs at different times, it helps maximize fat loss 24/7. It’s an especially good choice for overweight people who have difficulty sleeping because used correctly, it can help them kill two birds with one stone.
Unlike Zepbound, Phen24 does not have any known side effects, is not expensive, and has the backing of a 60-day money-back guarantee.
#3 – Berbaprime
Lastly we have Berbaprime, a multi-functional supplement that supports weight loss and healthy metabolism while also helping to regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Possibly more of a health and wellness supplement than a diet pill, it’s still a great natural alternative to Zepbound.
Each dose of Berbaprime provides 1,500 mg of berberine. There are no other active ingredients.
Berberine is a botanical compound that has scientifically backed credentials in all the aforementioned areas – weight management, blood sugar regulation, and cholesterol reduction.
Although other dietary supplements provide berberine, none of them offer the same level of quality. Berbaprime is manufactured in the USA in an ISO9001 and GMP-certified facility.
The manufacturer of Berbaprime has so much faith in the supplement’s quality and strength that it provides all its customers with a 100-day money-back guarantee.
In common with Zepbound, Berbaprime’s main value is as an appetite suppressant. Although it can deliver significant improvements in weight loss, it’s not as versatile as PhenQ or Phen24.
However, berberine’s ability to control cholesterol is comparable to that of statin medications, which can present a variety of side effects and health risks.
High cholesterol levels and obesity often go hand in hand. For anyone seeking a natural way to reduce their cholesterol, along with their body weight, Berbaprime is an excellent choice.
Zepbound and Its Role in Weight Management
Like Moujaro, Zepbound provides the drug Tirzepatide via a once-weekly injection just under the skin.
Tirzepatide is a synthetic peptide that simulates the effects of two incretin hormones: glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). These hormones are part of the body’s natural regulatory system for metabolism and insulin secretion.
The dual agonist action of Tirzepatide is unique in that it not only enhances the secretion of insulin when blood sugar levels are high but also reduces the secretion of glucagon, which is another hormone that raises blood sugar levels. Additionally, Tirzepatide slows down gastric emptying, which leads to a more prolonged sensation of fullness after eating, decreasing food intake by reducing appetite.
The weight loss effects of Tirzepatide are largely due to its strong appetite-suppressing properties. By increasing feelings of satiety and decreasing hunger, Tirzepatide can help people stay true to their diets while also avoiding hunger. This makes it easier to create and maintain the calorie deficit that’s necessary for fat-burning and weight loss.
Furthermore, the influence of Tirzepatide on insulin and glucagon secretion helps improve glycemic control, which can be beneficial for weight management, especially in people with type 2 diabetes.
Difference Between Zepbound and Mounjaro
Zepbound and Mounjaro are actually the same medication.
Here are the key points:
- Active ingredient in both is tirzepatide
- Both are injectable prescription medications for weight loss
- Both come in prefilled pens that are injected under the skin once weekly
- Neither has a generic version currently available
- Zepbound is the brand name of tirzepatide that was pending FDA approval, which is now called Mounjaro after approval
Zepbound and Mounjaro refer to the same tirzepatide injection used for weight loss in adults. There are no differences between the two since Zepbound was simply the planned brand name during development and Mounjaro is now the approved brand name. Both terms can be used interchangeably to refer to the tirzepatide weight loss medication.
Risks and Side Effects of Zepbound
The most commonly reported side effects of Tirzepatide medications are gastrointestinal. These can include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pain
All the above side effects are usually mild to moderate and often decrease over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Although less common, more serious side effects and health risks may be an issue for some Zepbound users:
- Pancreatitis
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Kidney Problems
- Allergic reactions
- Changes in vision
- Gallbladder disease/gallstones
Animal-based studies suggest GLP-1 receptor agonists like Tirzepatide may also increase the risk of thyroid cancer and medullary thyroid cancer. Research available in Diabetes Care suggests this risk may extend to humans. [3]
A Look at the Science Behind Natural Ingredients and Weight Loss
Nopal
Nopal is the common name for Opuntia ficus-indica – a species of cactus. Although it is traditionally only used for controlling hunger, research suggests nopal can further support weight loss by changing the state of play in the gut microbiota for the better.
Its ability to do this results in improvements in metabolism that support greater daily calorie expenditure and fat loss. [4]
Caffeine
Caffeine is a popular stimulant that’s known for its ability to boost energy and banish fatigue. It’s also good for improving alertness and mental focus. These are values many people who are following a reduced-calorie diet will appreciate.
Caffeine also appears to have the ability to curb appetite. Other natural ingredients have greater value in this area, but research shows caffeine has a notable ability to support increases in thermogenesis and fat loss. [5]
Capsaicin
Capsaicin is a compound that occurs naturally in capsicum and cayenne peppers. Due to the variety of benefits it provides, it could be seen as a natural weight loss phenomenon.
Capsaicin’s value as a weight loss provider has been evaluated via multiple clinical trials and meta-analysis studies. Research shows that capsaicin supports fat loss by increasing thermogenesis, suppressing appetite, aiding lipolysis, and inhibiting adipogenesis. [6]
L-Carnitine
L-carnitine is an amino acid that plays a key role in energy production and muscle growth and repair. Research shows supplements that provide L-carnitine can support improvements in BMI (body mass index) while also helping to prevent low mood and depression. [7, 8]
Griffonia Seeds
Griffonia seed extracts provide 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). Also known as oxitriptan, this naturally occurring amino acid is a precursor to serotonin.
Perhaps most famous for being a happiness hormone, serotonin plays a key role in mood. It also influences appetite and sleep.
Research shows supplements that provide 5-HTP can be effective in providing relief from binge eating, insomnia, and depression. [9]
Choline
Choline is a nutrient the body requires to maintain healthy biological functions. Research shows supplements that provide the body with extra choline can support rapid reductions in body weight without side effects. [10]
Berberine
Berberine is an alkaloid that’s present in several species of plants including barberry (Berberis vulgaris), tree turmeric (Berberis aristata), and Oregon grape (Berberis aquifolium). It has a long history of use in traditional Indian and Chinese herbal medicine.
Often used as a natural remedy for inflammatory disorders, and promoting good heart health, berberine also has anti-fungal, anti-microbial, and anti-tumor properties.
Many of berberine’s abilities can be backed by science, including its ability to suppress appetite, support weight loss, and manage cholesterol levels. [11, 12]
Why Natural Weight Loss Supplements Are So Popular
Many people choose natural supplements such as PhenQ over prescription options like Zepbound because they want to avoid the short and/or long-term side effects they may present. Others simply cannot afford the high usage costs associated with Zepbound and other similar options.
These days, much of the allure of natural supplements is also due to a growing interest in aligning with a more organic lifestyle. For many people, chemical-based pharmaceutical options, are rapidly dropping out of fashion. As with their dietary choices, a lot of overweight men and women favor a more organic approach to health and wellness.
Natural weight loss supplements typically contain plant extracts and/or nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
As you will learn if you research any of the scientific sources in the resource section at the bottom of the page, certain natural ingredients can be surprisingly effective, with many of them offering value in multiple areas.
Regardless of whether you are trying to lose weight, lower cholesterol, or achieve some other personal health and fitness goal, drugs and medications can be effective but so can certain natural compounds.
Faced with the prospect of good results with potential side effects and an equally good response without adverse issues, it’s not a difficult choice. In all probability, many more people would choose natural supplements over medications like Zepbound. The only reason they don’t is that they are unaware those options exist.
Getting the Best Results from OTC Alternatives to Zepbound
As with Zepbound or similar prescription weight management treatments, you will get better results from OTC supplements if you adhere to the usage recommendations and make appropriate lifestyle changes.
Try to remain consistent with the dosing schedule the manufacturers suggest and never exceed the maximum dose. The guidelines are present for a reason. They exist to help you get the maximum benefits and overall level of weight loss support.
People don’t become overweight or obese by accident. The body stores fat in response to ongoing calorie overloads. The speed at which this happens is faster in people who live sedentary lifestyles but, even people who are willing to exercise regularly still gain weight if they keep providing their bodies with more calories than they can burn via physical activity.
Adherence to a low-calorie diet is the most important part of the weight loss process. Hunger and cravings can make it difficult to stick to such a diet but, by controlling appetite, OTC options such as PhenQ, Phen24, and Berbaprime can make this easier to do.
Health permitting, it’s also important to try to remain active. This makes the weight loss process faster by increasing daily calorie expenditure. Diet pills like PhenQ and Phen24 can further increase calorie expenditure, resulting in more rapid fat burning but it’s best to see them as an extension of your efforts with exercise rather than a replacement.
Zepbound (Tirzepatide) Alternatives – The Bottom Line
Zepbound is a newly approved weight loss medication that provides the drug Tirzepatide. Although it has shown potential for appetite suppression and weight loss, the potential side effects and health risks associated with its use are less than ideal.
Additionally, the high cost of Zepbound, along with FDA eligibility restrictions may limit its accessibility to many potential users.
PhenQ, Phen24, and Berbaprime are three of the best natural alternatives. They provide ingredients that have proven to be capable of supporting weight loss without presenting a risk of dangerous side effects.
Depending on your requirements, certain options may be more appealing. For instance, if you have difficulty sleeping, Phen24 may be particularly attractive. Then again, if you have issues with high cholesterol, you may prefer to go with Berbaprime. However, due to its greater versatility as a weight loss aid, PhenQ remains the top choice.
Research Sources
- Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity in People With Type 2 Diabetes (Surmount-2): A Double-Blind, Randomised, Multicentre, Placebo-Controlled, Phase 3 Trial: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37385275/
- Understanding Unapproved Use of Approved Drugs “Off Label”: https://www.fda.gov/patients/learn-about-expanded-access-and-other-treatment-options/understanding-unapproved-use-approved-drugs-label
- GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and the Risk of Thyroid Cancer: https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article-abstract/46/2/384/147888/GLP-1-Receptor-Agonists-and-the-Risk-of-Thyroid?redirectedFrom=fulltext
- Physical and Dietary Intervention with Opuntia ficus-indica (Nopal) in Women with Obesity Improves Health Condition through Gut Microbiota Adjustment: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8912383/
- Normal Caffeine Consumption: Influence on Thermogenesis and Daily Energy Expenditure in Lean and Postobese Human Volunteers: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2912010/
- Dietary Capsaicin and Its Anti-obesity Potency: From Mechanism to Clinical Implications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5426284/
- Beneficial Effects of L-Carnitine Supplementation for Weight Management in Overweight and Obese Adults: An Updated Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31743774/
- Carnitine and Depression: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8964433/
- 5-Hydroxytryptophan: A Clinically-Effective Serotonin Precursor: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9727088/
- Effect of Choline Supplementation on Rapid Weight Loss and Biochemical Variables Among Female Taekwondo and Judo Athletes: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4096089/
- Berberine for Appetite Suppressant and Prevention of Obesity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7752296/
- Efficacy of Berberine Alone and in Combination for the Treatment of Hyperlipidemia: A Systematic Review: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871262/