Compounded semaglutide, explained
What compounded means, how it differs from Ozempic and Wegovy, and what to know about safety.
When a brand-name medication is in shortage or unaffordable, a licensed compounding pharmacy can prepare an equivalent formulation using the same active ingredient. That's what "compounded semaglutide" means: the same GLP-1 receptor agonist as Ozempic and Wegovy, prepared at a 503A or 503B pharmacy under a physician's prescription.
How it differs from Ozempic and Wegovy
The active drug is identical. What differs:
- FDA approval status. Ozempic and Wegovy are FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management respectively. Compounded versions are not FDA-approved.
- Concentration and delivery. Compounded versions often come as a multi-dose vial with a syringe, rather than a pre-filled pen.
- Price and availability. Compounded options are typically less expensive and available outside of national shortages.
Safety and oversight
Compounded medications are regulated by the FDA, but at the level of the pharmacy that prepares them — not at the level of an individual product approval. State boards of pharmacy provide additional oversight. Your physician on Puri reviews your medical history and decides whether compounded semaglutide is appropriate for you.
A prescription is never guaranteed. If your physician determines a brand medication or non-medication approach is a better fit, that's what they'll recommend.
Talk to your physician
If you're considering GLP-1 therapy, the best next step is a 5-minute intake assessment. A licensed physician will review your responses and reach out within 24 hours.