Diabetes association weighs in on compounded weight-loss meds
If you are managing obesity or type 2 diabetes, you may be using medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists (also known as semaglutide, Ozempic or Wegovy) or dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists (also known as tirzepatide, Mounjaro or Zepbound. Due to medication shortages, you may hear about "compounded" versions of these therapies. On December 2, 2024, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) put out a warning against non-FDA compounded versions as they may not be safe or effective.
We’ll explain what compounded therapies are, the risks they pose, and how to stay safe out there.
Compounded medications explained
Compounded medications are custom-made by pharmacists to meet individual needs when regular, FDA-approved drugs are unavailable. Compounded therapies are made to replace GLP-1 RA or dual GIP/GLP-1 RA medications during shortages. However, some of these versions are not FDA-approved and may not have the same safety and quality standards.
ADA’s Warning About Compounded Therapies
The ADA strongly advises against using compounded GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists. Their statement highlights the lack of oversight and the potential dangers of these therapies. It’s best to stick with FDA-approved medications whenever possible. However, the ADA also recognizes clinicians may still elect to use or recommend compounded products if other options are too expensive because insurance companies won’t cover brand-name medications such as Wegovy or Zepbound.
Why compounded therapies can be risky
Uncertain ingredients: You may not be getting the correct medication or dosage.
Health risks: These therapies can cause unexpected side effects, infections or allergic reactions.
How to stay safe
As mentioned above, the ADA also recognizes clinicians may still elect to use or recommend compounded products if patient cannot afford the medication given their insurance may not cover it, or for other reasons. In these cases, the ADA offers additional advice for the public, including the following:
Discuss product use with your health care provider.
Only use products that include dosing guidance.
Verify that the compounding pharmacy is registered with the FDA.
Report any adverse events or medication errors to the FDA’s MedWatch.
Your Health Comes First
If a weight loss medication is indicated in your situation, we will work to make sure we prescribe the best one for you. Whether it is Wegovy or compounded semaglutide, Zepbound or compounded tirzepatide. We will make sure we always use FDA-registered and vetted pharmacies for your medication.
If you’re interested in a weight-loss program and want to schedule a free, 10-minute consultation or an appointment with our obesity medicine board-certified doctor, book one below.
