Can Zepbound Cause Insomnia?

Starting a new medication can feel a bit overwhelming. This is especially true for injectable weight loss medications, like Zepbound, since you’re probably figuring out how it makes you feel, the best way to take it, and whether or not it’s causing any side effects. It’s common to deal with gastrointestinal side effects from these medications, like nausea and discomfort. But does Zepbound also cause insomnia? 

Here we’ll review what the evidence shows, and what you need to know about Zepbound and sleep.

Is insomnia a side effect of Zepbound?

People didn’t report insomnia while taking tirzepatide (Zepbound) during clinical trials. 

Similarly, a large analysis of studies, including more than 7,000 participants, didn’t identify insomnia as a common side effect. The opposite may actually be true. In fact, two randomized, controlled trials found that tirzepatide improved sleep quality for people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

But some users of GLP-1 medications report insomnia or other sleep disturbances. One study looked at what side effects people reported when taking Zepbound and other GLP-1 agonists. It found that some people reported insomnia. But these reports are rare.

Why does Zepbound affect sleep?

Overall, research suggests Zepbound is more likely to have a positive effect on your sleep. People in clinical trials were more likely to report improved sleep quality when taking tirzepatide. In fact, Zepbound is an FDA-approved treatment for OSA. 

Researchers believe Zepbound’s effect on weight and glucose (blood sugar) control is why the medication can improve sleep apnea. Research suggests a tight connection between sleep quality, insulin sensitivity, and glucose regulation.

All that said, it’s possible to experience interrupted sleep while taking Zepbound because it can cause gastrointestinal side effects, which can affect your sleep.

Common gastrointestinal side effects from Zepbound include:

• Nausea 

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Indigestion

• Diarrhea

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These side effects can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep. But the good news is that these side effects usually get better as your body adjusts to the medication. This can take a few days or up to a month, depending on which side effects you experience. 

Contact your healthcare team if your symptoms don’t get better within a week or two, or if they get worse at any point.

How can you reduce insomnia from Zepbound?

If you’re having trouble sleeping, it’s a good idea to start with the basics. Good sleep hygiene can go a long way, but it may take some work. 

There are several tips anyone can try to get a better night’s sleep. You can aim to:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule every day.

• Exercise regularly.

• Avoid caffeine and screens in the evening.

• Cut back on alcohol.

• Practice relaxation techniques, like deep breathing.

• Make sure your sleep space is cool, dark, and quiet. 

You can also take simple steps to minimize gut side effects from Zepbound. For example:

• Try eating smaller meals more frequently.

• Avoid large meals, especially in the hours before bedtime.

• Avoid or limit high-fat, fried, or spicy foods.

• Try walking after meals to help with digestion.

• To manage constipation, gradually increase your fiber intake.

• If you’ve been vomiting or have diarrhea, be sure to stay hydrated. This can help prevent headaches.

When should you seek care for trouble sleeping while taking Zepbound?

Losing sleep is tough, and it affects many aspects of your health. And, for some people, even the best sleep hygiene habits don’t help. If that’s the case for you, it’s best to contact your healthcare team for help.

It’s possible that something else — not the medication — is preventing you from getting good sleep. Your care team can help you sort through it and come up with a plan that makes sense. They may suggest trying a different dose, a different medication, or something else entirely. 

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Written by:

Mandy Armitage, MD

Mandy Armitage, MD, has combined clinical medicine with her passion for education and content development for many years. She served as medical director for the health technology companies HealthLoop (now Get Well) and Doximity.

Edited by:

Patricia Pinto-Garcia, MD, MPH

Patricia Pinto-Garcia, MD, MPH, is a medical editor at GoodRx. She is a licensed, board-certified pediatrician with more than a decade of experience in academic medicine.

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