Understanding GLP-1 Medicines: FDA-Approved Medications vs. Compound Formulas

Obesity is a long-term disease that needs lifelong care and management. A new type of weight loss medicine called glucagon-like peptides (GLP-1) has greatly changed how we treat obesity. However, there is a high demand for these medicines, and manufacturers can’t keep up, causing a national shortage. This makes it hard for doctors to prescribe them.

The two main companies making GLP-1 medicines are Novo-Nordisk and Eli-Lilly. Novo-Nordisk makes semaglutide, which is sold as Ozempic (approved for type 2 diabetes) and Wegovy (approved for weight loss). Eli-Lilly makes tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro (approved for type 2 diabetes) and Zepbound (approved for weight loss).

To help with the shortage, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows special pharmacies to make copies of these drugs. These copies might have ingredients similar to the approved drugs, but they are not FDA approved. The FDA has received reports that some pharmacies use semaglutide salts, like semaglutide sodium and semaglutide acetate, which are not proven to be safe or effective.

Because these weight loss drugs are popular and profitable, many clinics, spas, and telehealth providers are selling semaglutide or tirzepatide injections. Often, these are given without a prescription, education, nutrition advice, or follow-up. Obesity needs proper management, so giving these drugs without follow-up just for profit is not reliable patient care.

The Valley Metabolic and Bariatric Program knows that the shortage and cost of GLP-1 medicines make it hard to treat obesity. We recommend that only trained weight loss specialists prescribe these medicines, along with proper counseling, dietary education, and regular follow-up. It is also recommended that all compounded medication come from a quality compounding pharmacy regulated by the State Boards of Pharmacy, complies with Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) requirements, and is Accredited.

The Valley Health Metabolic and Bariatric Program does not offer, prescribe, manage, or oversee compounded forms of semaglutide or tirzepatide. However, we want to provide the best and safest care to our community. Patients taking compounded versions of these weight loss medicines can come to our office for the necessary dietary education, counseling, and follow-up to succeed long-term.

Call 540-536-0010 to schedule an appointment or visit valleyhealthlink.com/WeightLoss for more information.