A true solution for weight loss has been elusive for most.  Semaglutide has been a real game-changer for many.  An increasing issue however is it can often be difficult to obtain it.  Even though it is FDA approved for patients who are overweight and have one other health issue, like hypertension, it is still often nearly impossible to get it approved the traditional route through insurance.  Thankfully, the FDA has allowed the medication to be dispensed from compounding pharmacies.  This is a great solution for most and offers a reasonably priced option.  However, it was recently reported in the news that not all compounded semaglutide is created equal.  As you can imagine there are some that are trying to cash in on the demand. You can protect yourself and still benefit from compounded semaglutide.  

Here are some tips on making sure your semaglutide is of good quality and safe to take. 

1. Check the source of the semaglutide.  Semaglutide is manufactured by pharmaceutical companies and is only available as a prescription drug.  If a compounding pharmacy is claiming to “create” semaglutide from scratch, that should raise a red flag.  Make sure that the compounding pharmacy is sourcing semaglutide from a reputable manufacturer and that the medication is FDA-approved. 

2. Verify the compounding pharmacy’s accreditation:  Compounding pharmacies should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) or the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). These organizations require compounding pharmacies to adhere to strict quality standards to ensure patient safety.  Check to see if the compounding pharmacy you’re considering is accredited and if their accreditation is up to date. 

3. Ask for test results: A reputable compounding pharmacy should be able to provide you with test results that verify the quality and potency of the semaglutide they are providing.  This includes information on the concentration of the medication, as well as any impurities or contaminants.  If a compounding pharmacy cannot provide you with the information, it’s best to look elsewhere. 

4. Look for reviews and feedback: Check online reviews and feedback from other patients who have used the compounding pharmacy to get their semaglutide.  Look for comments on the quality of the medication, the reliability of the pharmacy, and the overall customer service experience.  If the pharmacy has a high number of negative reviews or complaints, that could be a sign that they are not providing good-quality semaglutide.

5. Consult with your healthcare provider: Your healthcare provider is your best source of information when it comes to medications, including semaglutide.  They can help you determine if getting semaglutide from a compounding pharmacy is the right choice for you and can provide guidance on how to ensure that you are getting good-quality medication.