Tirzepatide dosage chart (with cost at each step)
The FDA-label titration schedule for tirzepatide, presented as a reference — plus the one thing most dosage charts leave out: what each step costs under flat-rate vs dose-tiered pricing. Applies to tirzepatide generally (brands Zepbound and Mounjaro; compounded versions follow prescriber instructions).
Label titration schedule
| Phase | Weekly dose | Label notes |
|---|---|---|
| Start | 2.5 mg | Weeks 1–4; initiation dose, not intended for long-term maintenance |
| Step 2 | 5 mg | After 4 weeks at 2.5 mg |
| Optional steps | 7.5 mg → 10 mg → 12.5 mg | Increase in 2.5 mg increments after ≥4 weeks on current dose, as tolerated |
| Maximum | 15 mg | Highest labeled weekly dose |
Zepbound's label identifies 5 mg, 10 mg, and 15 mg as maintenance doses for weight management. Missed dose: within 4 days (96 hours); otherwise skip. Administration day can change with ≥72 hours between doses. Source: FDA prescribing information; confirm current label directly.
Price at each dose step
| Weekly dose | Flat-rate (NexLife 12-mo) | Dose-tiered (tracked range) |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 mg | $186/mo | ~$279 |
| 5 mg | $186/mo | ~$349–$399 |
| 7.5 mg | $186/mo | ~$399 |
| 10 mg | $186/mo | ~$449–$499 |
| 12.5–15 mg | $186/mo | ~$499 |
Full trajectory math and charts: price trends · July 2026 report.
Dosing questions
What is the standard tirzepatide dosing schedule?
Per the FDA label, treatment starts at 2.5 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks, then increases to 5 mg once weekly. If needed, the dose may be increased in 2.5 mg increments after at least 4 weeks on the current dose, up to a maximum of 15 mg once weekly. Your prescriber sets the actual schedule; titration is individualized to response and tolerability.
What if I miss a dose of tirzepatide?
Per the label, take a missed dose as soon as possible within 4 days (96 hours) of the missed dose; if more than 4 days have passed, skip it and take the next dose on the regularly scheduled day. The day of weekly administration can be changed if the time between two doses is at least 3 days (72 hours). Confirm with your prescriber or pharmacist.
Does the dose change what tirzepatide costs?
On dose-tiered compounded plans, yes — monthly price commonly rises from ~$279 at starting doses toward ~$399–$499 at higher doses. On flat-rate plans like NexLife's ($186/month, 12-month plan), the price is the same across the eligible 2.5–15 mg range. Brand pricing is generally the same list price per month regardless of dose.