Zepbound in Charlotte: in-person weight loss care
Zepbound is a once-a-week shot from Eli Lilly, FDA-approved for weight loss and for sleep apnea in adults with obesity. At OneSpotMD, a provider sees you in person at our Steele Creek or Plaza Midwood clinic, checks whether Zepbound is safe for you, helps with your insurance paperwork and stays with you as your dose goes up.
- ✓ FDA-approved for weight loss in adults
- ✓ Also approved for moderate to severe sleep apnea in adults with obesity
- ✓ In-person visits, not just an online form
- ✓ Help with prior approval from your insurance
- ✓ Program compounded injections are given in clinic; injectable pharmacy prescriptions are self-injected at home
- ✓ Open 7 days, with evening hours on weekdays
Call either clinic to arrange a visit, and a provider sees you in person, checks whether Zepbound is safe for you and helps with the prior approval your plan asks for. No coverage? Your provider goes over your options.
What happens next: 1. Call either clinic. 2. Our team helps arrange your visit. 3. See a provider in person at Steele Creek or Plaza Midwood.
Cost: no insurance? Visits and labs are $99 a month. If individually prescribed and permitted, self-pay compounded tirzepatide is $199 or $299 a month, depending on your dose. With insurance, visits and labs are billed to your plan; your cost depends on your coverage. See what you’d pay
Never tried a GLP-1? Call a clinic to book a visit, and ask whether we have a sample you can try at your first appointment, before you sign up for the full program. Call to ask about a sample
- A provider you see in person, not just an online form
- Insurance billed for your visits, with help on prior approval
- No insurance? Visits and labs for $99 a month
- Open 7 days, weekdays until 8pm
- Same-day help if side effects hit, because we’re also an urgent care
- Labs, blood pressure and diabetes care in the same clinic
On this page
What it isWho it is forPens and vialsDosingResultsOther benefitsSide effectsCoverageGetting itCost and insuranceOur clinics
What is Zepbound?
Zepbound is the brand name for tirzepatide when it’s used for weight loss. It acts on two hormones, GIP and GLP-1, that control appetite and fullness. The FDA approved it for weight loss in November 2023 and for obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity in December 2024. Mounjaro has the same medicine but is approved for type 2 diabetes. More on the medicine itself: tirzepatide.
Source: FDA: FDA approves new medication for chronic weight management (Nov 2023); FDA: FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea (Dec 2024)
Who Zepbound is for
- Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher
- Adults with a BMI of 27 or higher plus a weight-related condition, such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol
- Adults with obesity and moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea
Source: FDA: FDA approves new medication for chronic weight management (Nov 2023)
Zepbound isn’t for you if you or a family member has had medullary thyroid cancer, if you have MEN 2, or if you’re pregnant. It isn’t approved for anyone under 18. Your provider also asks about pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, kidney problems and severe stomach emptying problems.
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
Check your BMI on our do I qualify page.
Call to start weight loss care
Zepbound pens and vials
| Form | How it works |
|---|---|
| Single-dose pen | One pen per week. The needle is hidden, and you press it against your skin. |
| Single-dose vial | One vial per week, drawn up with a syringe |
| KwikPen | One pen holds 4 weekly doses. Never share a pen, even if you change the needle. |
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
All forms come in the same doses, from 2.5 mg to 15 mg. Your provider and pharmacy help you choose the one your plan covers. We explain how to self-inject pharmacy prescriptions at home. Weekly clinic injections apply to patients prescribed compounded medicine through our program.
Zepbound dosing
| Step | Weekly dose |
|---|---|
| Weeks 1 to 4 | 2.5 mg (starting dose only) |
| Week 5 | 5 mg |
| Every 4 weeks or more, if needed | Up 2.5 mg at a time, to a maximum of 15 mg |
| Long-term dose for weight loss | 5, 10 or 15 mg |
| Long-term dose for sleep apnea | 10 or 15 mg |
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
Missed a dose? Take it within 4 days. After that, skip it and go back to your usual day. Details on the tirzepatide page.
Zepbound results
In the SURMOUNT-1 study, adults without diabetes lost an average of 15.0% to 20.9% of their body weight over 72 weeks, depending on dose, compared with 3.1% on placebo. Everyone also cut calories and added activity. Results vary from person to person.
Source: Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). NEJM 2022
Zepbound works while you take it. In SURMOUNT-4, people who switched to placebo after 36 weeks regained much of their weight. See keeping weight off and stopping.
What else weight loss can help with
Losing weight can also help lower blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar, ease knee and joint pain, and ease PCOS symptoms. Zepbound is also FDA-approved to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. Results vary. See what else weight loss can help with.
Source: CDC: Losing weight; FDA: FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea (Dec 2024)
Zepbound side effects
The most common are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation, mostly in the first weeks and after a dose increase. In 2026 the label added warnings for blocked bowels and severe constipation. Some people notice hair thinning, which was more common in women in the studies. See how to manage side effects.
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
- Severe stomach pain that won’t go away, with or without vomiting. It may spread to your back.
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction: swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, or a fast heartbeat with dizziness
- Fainting, or chest pain
- Anything that seems life-threatening
- Sudden loss of vision: seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea that keeps you from drinking enough fluids
- Signs of dehydration: dizziness, very dark urine or peeing much less than usual
- No bowel movement for several days, with belly pain or bloating
- Pain in your upper right belly, fever, or yellowing of your skin or eyes (possible gallbladder problem)
- A lump or swelling in your neck, trouble swallowing, or hoarseness that won’t go away
Birth control pills may work less well on Zepbound. Use a non-pill method, or add condoms, for 4 weeks after you start and 4 weeks after each dose increase. Having surgery or a procedure with sedation? Tell that team you take Zepbound.
Source: Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026); Multisociety guidance on GLP-1 medicines before surgery and procedures (HealthDay summary, Oct 2024)
Zepbound and insurance
Coverage depends on your plan. Many plans need prior approval first, and some don’t cover weight loss medicine at all. We bill your insurance for your visits, send what your plan asks for, and tell you what we hear back. If your plan prefers a different GLP-1, your provider talks with you about it or asks for an exception. See insurance coverage.
No insurance, or your plan says no? You can still be seen, and we have a self-pay GLP-1 program. Your provider goes over your options with you. Compounded medicines are not FDA-approved, and the FDA doesn’t review them for safety, effectiveness or quality.
Source: FDA: Concerns with unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss
How to get Zepbound in Charlotte
- Call either clinic to arrange your weight loss visit.
- See a provider in person at Steele Creek or Plaza Midwood.
- Get labs if your provider needs them.
- We send your prescription and help with prior approval.
- Your provider determines your starting plan. Injectable injectable pharmacy prescriptions are self-injected at home; prescribed compounded program injections are given in clinic. Check in before dose changes.
Call to start weight loss care
Cost and insurance
What you pay each month
Your visits and your medicine are priced separately, so you only pay for what your insurance doesn’t cover.
| Your situation | Visits and labs | Medicine | Each month |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-pay program, individually prescribed compounded dose 2.5–7.5 mg | $99 | $199 | $298 |
| Self-pay program, individually prescribed compounded dose 10–15 mg | $99 | $299 | $398 |
| Insurance covers your medicine | Your plan-dependent cost | Your plan-dependent pharmacy cost | Your plan-dependent cost |
| Insurance does not cover medicine; compounded treatment individually prescribed if appropriate | Your plan-dependent cost | $199 or $299 | Your plan-dependent visit/lab cost plus eligible prescribed medicine |
- $99 a month, no insurance needed: a visit with your provider every month and lab work every 3 months. Self-pay patients can sign up for this program.
- With insurance: we bill your plan for your visits and labs. Your cost depends on your plan, including copay, coinsurance and deductible.
- If your plan covers tirzepatide (Zepbound or Mounjaro): we send your prescription to your pharmacy, and your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan. Many plans need prior approval first, and we help with the paperwork.
- If prescribed for your individual medical need: compounded tirzepatide is $199 a month at 2.5, 5 or 7.5 mg, or $299 a month at 10, 12.5 or 15 mg. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility. Your provider determines your dose and follow-up plan.
Compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review compounded medicines for safety, effectiveness or quality. Your provider talks with you about whether it’s right for you. Prices as of November 2026. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility.
How insurance coverage for GLP-1 medicine works →
Insurance we take: Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO plans, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Humana and TRICARE East, plus Original Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans. We don’t take HMO plans tied to one doctor or hospital system. HSA and FSA cards are accepted. See all the insurance we accept.
Our weight loss clinics in Charlotte
Injectable prescriptions sent to a pharmacy are self-injected at home as instructed. Oral medicines are taken as prescribed. Patients prescribed compounded medicine through our program receive weekly injections at the clinic. A routine provider evaluation is not required at every weekly injection; follow-up and dose changes remain directed by your provider.
| Clinic | Address and phone |
|---|---|
| Steele Creek | 2114 Freeman Park Dr, Suite 105, Charlotte, NC 28273. (980) 880-5588 |
| Plaza Midwood | 2017 Central Ave, Suite 103, Charlotte, NC 28205. (704) 731-8656 |
| Hours (both) | Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm; Saturday and Sunday 9am to 5pm |
Weight loss visits and in-clinic injections are available at both clinics. Close to Steele Creek, Ballantyne, Rivergate, Lake Wylie, Fort Mill, Plaza Midwood, NoDa, Uptown, Midtown and Elizabeth.
Call either clinic to discuss weight loss care and arrange your first visit.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get Zepbound in Charlotte?
OneSpotMD providers prescribe Zepbound after an in-person visit at our Steele Creek and Plaza Midwood clinics. Call either clinic to arrange a visit. Both clinics are open 7 days a week.
What is Zepbound?
Zepbound is a once-weekly tirzepatide shot made by Eli Lilly. It’s FDA-approved for weight loss in adults and for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity.
Who qualifies for Zepbound?
Adults with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher with a weight-related condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol. It’s not for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or MEN 2, or during pregnancy.
Is Zepbound approved for sleep apnea?
Yes. In December 2024 the FDA approved Zepbound for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity. The long-term dose for sleep apnea is 10 or 15 mg a week.
What’s the difference between Zepbound and Mounjaro?
Both contain tirzepatide. Zepbound is approved for weight loss and sleep apnea, and Mounjaro is approved for type 2 diabetes. Insurance plans often cover each one only for its approved use.
What is the starting dose of Zepbound?
2.5 mg once a week for 4 weeks, then 5 mg. Your provider can raise it by 2.5 mg every 4 weeks or more, up to 15 mg.
What is the Zepbound KwikPen?
A multi-dose pen that holds 4 weekly doses. You attach a new needle each week. Never share a KwikPen with anyone, even with a new needle.
How much weight do people lose on Zepbound?
In the SURMOUNT-1 study, adults without diabetes lost an average of 15.0% to 20.9% of their body weight over 72 weeks, depending on the dose, with diet and activity changes. Results vary.
What are the side effects of Zepbound?
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and constipation are the most common. Call 911 for severe stomach pain that won’t go away or signs of a serious allergic reaction.
Does insurance cover Zepbound?
Some plans cover it, usually after prior approval, and some don’t cover weight loss medicine. We bill your plan for visits and help with the paperwork. If you don’t have coverage, ask about our self-pay GLP-1 program.
Is there a generic Zepbound?
No. There’s no FDA-approved generic tirzepatide. Compounded tirzepatide is not FDA-approved, and the FDA doesn’t review compounded drugs for safety, effectiveness or quality. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility.
Can I get my Zepbound shot at the clinic?
Injectable prescriptions sent to a pharmacy are self-injected at home as instructed. Oral medicines are taken as prescribed. Patients prescribed compounded medicine through our program receive weekly injections at the clinic. A routine provider evaluation is not required at every weekly injection; follow-up and dose changes remain directed by your provider. Compounded medicine is considered only when an individual medical need cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug and applicable requirements permit it. Cost or lack of insurance coverage alone does not determine eligibility.
Sources
Additional safety information: FDA: compounded GLP-1 medicines; FDA: November 2026 vision warning; Wegovy prescribing information.
- Zepbound prescribing information, Eli Lilly (rev. 8/2026)
- FDA: FDA approves new medication for chronic weight management (Nov 2023)
- FDA: FDA approves first medication for obstructive sleep apnea (Dec 2024)
- Jastreboff AM, et al. Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity (SURMOUNT-1). NEJM 2022
- Aronne LJ, et al. Continued treatment with tirzepatide for maintenance of weight reduction (SURMOUNT-4). JAMA 2024
- FDA: Concerns with unapproved GLP-1 drugs used for weight loss
- Multisociety guidance on GLP-1 medicines before surgery and procedures (HealthDay summary, Oct 2024)
- CDC: Losing weight
This page is general information, not medical advice for your situation. Your provider decides with you whether a medicine is right for you. Results vary from person to person.
Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. OneSpotMD is not affiliated with or endorsed by these companies.
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