Key Takeaway:
- Compounded Semaglutide and Ozempic are different products, although both are used to support weight loss.
- Ozempic is a brand of medication containing Semaglutide, while compounded Semaglutide is a custom-made medication.
- Compounded Semaglutide is often prescribed when brand medications, such as Ozempic, are unavailable.
- The manufacturing of Ozempic is regulated by the FDA. Compounded drugs do not go through the same quality, effectiveness, and safety checks as drugs approved by the FDA.
- Compounded Semaglutide is more easily available than Ozempic, which often faces shortages.
- Compounded Semaglutide is cheaper than Ozempic, making it a cost-effective substitute for weight loss.
Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, is known for its effectiveness in supporting weight loss. Ozempic, a branded version of Semaglutide, is a widely recognized medication revered for its weight loss benefits.
On the other hand, compounded Semaglutide is tailored specifically to meet individual patient needs through compounding pharmacies.
While both compounded Semaglutide and Ozempic share the same active ingredient and therapeutic goals, their differences can impact your treatment choices. Understanding these differences is important for making informed decisions about your weight management options.
This article provides information on whether compounded Semaglutide is the same as Ozempic to help you determine the treatment that aligns best with your health goals.
What is Ozempic?
Ozempic is one of the most popular brands of Semaglutide available in injectable form. Ozempic is used off-label for weight loss. [1]
Ozempic supports weight loss by delaying gastric emptying (the rate at which food leaves the stomach) and acting on appetite centers in the brain. These effects of Ozempic increase satiety after smaller meals, keeping you from overeating.
In addition, Ozempic also helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing your food intake and eventually promoting weight loss. [2] [3]
Ozempic is an expensive medication, costing about $900 to $1,500 per month. Compounded versions of this drug are generally more affordable than branded medications. Injectable compounded Semaglutide prescribed under the AmpHealth Program costs around $199 to $299 per month, while oral forms of compounded Semaglutide cost around $349 to $515 per month, based on your plan and dosage.
Some common side effects of Ozempic include: [4]
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Pancreatitis
In addition, the FDA has issued a black box warning for Ozempic and other Semaglutide brands about the potential risks for patients with a medical or family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 or medullary thyroid carcinoma. The warning cautions patients with these conditions against using these drugs. [5]
What is Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded Semaglutide can be a suitable alternative to Ozempic for you if you are concerned about the high costs and shortages of this brand drug.
Compounded Semaglutide is available in the form of injectables, oral tablets, and oral drops. These forms of Semaglutide have the same active ingredient as Ozempic.
So, compounded Semaglutide works similarly to Ozempic. It supports weight loss by delaying gastric emptying and creating a sense of fullness in the stomach. This can keep you from overeating and reduce your total food intake.
Compounded Semaglutide injections need to be administered subcutaneously once a week, just like Ozempic. Compounded Semaglutide tablets and drops are taken orally, offering a convenient option for people who do not prefer injectables.
Most importantly, compounded Semaglutide offers a low-cost alternative to Ozempic. Compounded drugs are prepared by pharmacies approved by the FDA. So, they can offer the medication at a lower cost.
Why Is Semaglutide Being Compounded?
The primary reason why Semaglutide is being compounded is to address the shortages of FDA-approved brands, including Ozempic. [6]
Clinical research suggests that the shortage of medication can result in interruptions in patient treatments, negatively impacting the outcomes. [7]
Compounded Semaglutide addresses these issues, allowing patients to continue their treatment regularly.
The compounding of Semaglutide during shortages is permitted by the FDA when specific conditions are met, including: [8]
- Using the same Semaglutide base as in FDA-approved medications.
- Sourcing the Semaglutide base from FDA-registered facilities.
- Compounding the medication in compliance with state and federal regulations.
- Dispensing compounded Semaglutide only with a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional.
Another reason Semaglutide is being compounded is to ensure wider availability of this weight loss medication at a lower cost. The cost of compounding Semaglutide is much lower than that of Ozempic, making it a suitable option for people looking for a cheaper alternative to Ozempic.
If you are looking for an Ozempic substitute, you can make a telehealth appointment with Amp Health’s weight loss providers. Our doctors will analyze your case and prescribe the most suitable strength and form of compounded Semaglutide. This will help you achieve your weight loss goals without treatment interruptions and heavy expenditure.
What Is the Difference Between Compounded Semaglutide and Ozempic?
The main difference between compounded Semaglutide and Ozempic lies in their preparation, regulation, and potential safety.
Here are some key differences between compounded Semaglutide and Ozempic:
Ingredients
Both Ozempic and compounded Semaglutide have Semaglutide as the primary ingredient.
Testing and Approval
The manufacturing processes of Ozempic are strictly regulated by the FDA to ensure safety, efficacy, and consistency.
Compounded Semaglutide is created by specialized pharmacies. So, the compounding process is less regulated than that of FDA-approved drugs. Hence, not all compounded products meet the same rigorous standards.
This is why it is important to get your compounded Semaglutide from a reputable pharmacy such as Tailor Made Compounding Pharmacy to ensure optimal safety and effectiveness of your weight loss medication. Tailor Made Compounding Pharmacy is accredited to NABP, making it a credible source of your compounded medication.
Dosage Forms
Your weight loss coach at Amp Health will help you find the right dose of Ozempic or compounded Semaglutide based on your individual requirements. The medication is prepared in the NABP-accredited Tailor Made Compounding Pharmacy.
Medication Delivery
Ozempic is available in prefilled injectable pens, ensuring consistency in dosing and ease of use.
Compounded Semaglutide comes in various forms, including injections, oral tablets, or drops, depending on the pharmacy’s formulation. These alternative delivery methods and dosages offer wider options for you to choose from.
For example, if you wish to avoid injections, you can choose oral Semaglutide tablets or drops, and if you do not like the idea of taking your medication every day, you can opt for the injectable version.
Storage
Ozempic is manufactured with specific storage guidelines to maintain its efficacy. Your doctors at Amp Health will guide you on the storage guidelines for compounded Semaglutide to maintain its effectiveness.
Availability
Ozempic is facing frequent drug shortages due to the drastic rise in the use of this medication for weight loss. This can result in interruptions in your weight loss treatment and keep you from seeing optimal results.
Compounded Semaglutide is more easily available at specialized pharmacies, addressing the issue of Ozempic shortages.
You can book a telehealth appointment with our doctors at Amp Health to learn more about the differences between Ozempic and compounded Semaglutide and ensure you receive your compounded drug on a regular basis.
What Are the Risks of Using Compounded Semaglutide?
Compounded Semaglutide is not subject to the same rigorous manufacturing standards and quality control as FDA-approved medications like Ozempic. This can result in variations in the potency, purity, and efficacy of the compounded product.
Compounded medications may use ingredients or manufacturing processes that have not been thoroughly evaluated for safety. This could potentially lead to unexpected side effects.
You can talk to our weight loss experts at Amp Health to discuss your concerns about the potential risks associated with compounded Semaglutide and determine the most appropriate form of medication suitable for you.
What To Look For When Buying Compounded Semaglutide?
When purchasing compounded Semaglutide for weight loss, it’s important to ensure that you receive a safe and effective product.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Verify that the pharmacy is accredited by a recognized body to ensure adherence to high standards of practice and quality.
- Choose a pharmacy with a solid reputation and experience in compounding medications.
- Confirm that the compounded drug is prepared with a high-quality Semaglutide base.
- Ensure that the pharmacy follows state and federal regulations for compounding.
- Make sure that compounded Semaglutide is dispensed with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.
Testimonials
“The Semaglutide injections from Amp Health are well-tolerated. The medication and the weight loss nutrition plan by their doctors helped me lose 12 pounds in 4 months without drastic changes in my diet!”
– 22 year old Male
“Switching to compounded Semaglutide tablets from Amp Health was a good decision. The doctors also helped me with a custom nutrition plan and weight loss coaching throughout the program.”
– 31 year old Female
“Amp Health’s compounded Semaglutide drops are good for weight loss. I’ve seen steady weight loss over the past few months. Highly recommend for those seeking a personalized weight loss program.”
– 50 year old Male
Compounded Semaglutide vs. Ozempic: FAQs
Is Compounded Semaglutide Safe?
Yes, compounded Semaglutide is safe when manufactured and dispensed by a reputable pharmacy that adheres to strict compounding standards and is prescribed under the guidance of a licensed medical practitioner.
Is Compounded Semaglutide as Effective as Ozempic?
Yes, Compounded Semaglutide could potentially be as effective for weight loss as Ozempic, because both these versions contain the same active ingredient, Semaglutide. Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist known for its role in weight loss.
Why Is Compounded Semaglutide Cheaper Than Ozempic?
Compounded Semaglutide is cheaper than Ozempic because Ozempic is an FDA-approved drug. So, its cost includes the expenses related to research, development, and regulatory approval processes.
These costs are reflected in the final price of the medication.
Compounded Semaglutide does not undergo the same rigorous approval process. So, it avoids these additional costs, leading to a lower price point.
Conclusion
Compounded Semaglutide and Ozempic both contain the same active ingredient, Semaglutide. However, these two medications have a few differences.
Ozempic is a commercially available brand that provides a standardized dosage and is regarded for its proven efficacy in weight loss.
Compounded Semaglutide, on the other hand, offers a customized approach. Compounding pharmacies can tailor this medication to suit individual requirements, such as adjusting dosages or formulations. This customization can be particularly beneficial for those who have unique health needs or experience sensitivities to standard formulations.
You can contact our healthcare experts at Amp Health to learn more about the differences between Ozempic and compounded Semaglutide. Our doctors will help you make a choice between Ozempic and compounded Semaglutide, depending on your health goals and preferences.
You can also subscribe to our Amp Health Program, which includes consultations with our doctor, nutritionist, and coach, in addition to the monthly subscription of compounded Semaglutide ($79/month + cost of medication).
DISCLAIMER
If you have any medical questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider. The articles on our website are based on information drawn from medical research, societies and governmental agencies. However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36188627/
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/209637s012lbl.pdf
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36216945/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9631444/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11050669/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38685990/
- https://journals.lww.com/ajnonline/abstract/2020/04000/drug_shortages_lead_to_rationing,_treatment_delay.6.aspx
- https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss
