Managing your weight and health is a journey, and we understand how frustrating it can be when promising treatments like Wegovy (semaglutide) or Zepbound (tirzepatide) are out of reach. With shortages and high costs, it’s tempting to consider other options, like compounded GLP-1 medications. But here’s why that’s a risky path you should avoid.
The Joint Statement on Compounded Medications
The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC), along with our partner organizations dedicated to supporting those living with obesity, strongly recommend against using compounded versions of GLP-1 medications. Why?
- Not FDA-Approved: Compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide are not approved by the FDA. The FDA has warned that products marketed as “semaglutide” may not contain the same ingredients as the FDA-approved versions and may not be safe or effective.
- No Manufacturer Support: The only FDA-approved manufacturers of these medications are Novo Nordisk (Wegovy and Ozempic) and Eli Lilly (Zepbound and Mounjaro). These companies do not sell their ingredients to compounding pharmacies, meaning any compounded versions have not undergone FDA testing for safety, quality or efficacy.
- Potential For Harm: Reports suggest that these compounded versions may contain unknown substances that could be harmful to your health.
Why Taking a Risk Isn’t Worth It
We get it. You want a solution that works. But using a compounded medication is like playing a guessing game with your health. You don’t know what you’re getting, and if something goes wrong, it’s hard to know why.
A Better Path Forward
We believe everyone deserves access to safe and effective obesity treatments. That’s why we’re fighting tirelessly to expand insurance coverage and make medications more affordable.
In the meantime, here’s what you can do:
- Talk to Your Doctor: They can help you explore FDA-approved options that are right for you.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news from reliable sources like the OAC.
- Join Us in the Fight: Your support makes our work possible. Consider donating to our Action Fund to help us break down barriers to care.
Fighting for Affordable Access
We believe cost should never be a barrier to safe and effective treatment. We’re actively advocating for policies that expand insurance coverage and make medications more affordable for everyone who needs them. Removing these financial barriers is a crucial step toward achieving health equity. Our team works tirelessly on these issues, and your support can make a real difference.
We’re in This Together
Remember, you’re not alone. We understand the frustrations and challenges that come with accessing effective and safe treatments, and we are committed to finding solutions. OAC is here to support you on your journey to improved health. Let’s advocate for change together and ensure everyone has access to the safe, effective treatments they deserve.