Safely obtaining compounded tirzepatide with B12 or semaglutide with B12 is easier when following a checklist. Knowing the source of your compounded medication, the provider you are working with, and quality is essential before starting a weight loss journey.

The History of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists), such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, have gained popularity primarily due to their effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in weight loss. These medications work by enhancing insulin secretion, slowing gastric emptying, and promoting a feeling of fullness, leading to improved blood sugar control and weight management. The branded versions of GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, Mounjaro and Zepbound, are produced by pharmaceutical companies under strict regulatory standards, ensuring consistent quality and efficacy. In contrast, compounded versions are custom-made by pharmacies to suit individual patient needs and may offer flexibility in dosage forms or combinations.

Many patients opt for compounded medications due to the cost difference, with savings of $1,000-$2,000 per month. This has placed a financial incentive for pharmacies to produce inferior products or operate illegally.

What to know about compounding pharmacies

Can I trust compounding pharmacies?

Compounding pharmacies are legitimate and play a crucial role in the healthcare system by providing customized medications tailored to individual patient needs. These pharmacies adhere to strict regulatory standards set by bodies such as the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB) to ensure high-quality and safe products. They prepare personalized medications by adjusting dosages, combining ingredients, or creating alternative formulations for patients with specific requirements, such as allergies to certain additives or difficulty swallowing standard pills. Licensed pharmacists in these facilities undergo rigorous training and must comply with stringent guidelines to maintain the integrity and safety of their compounded medications. This personalized approach fills a critical gap, particularly for patients who cannot use commercially available drugs. Despite the necessity of compounding pharmacies, it is crucial to trust the quality of the compounded products you receive.

How do I verify the legitimacy of a compounding pharmacy?

Accreditation is the best way to verify the quality of a compounding pharmacy. The Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board is a voluntary system of standards for compounding pharmacies that highlight the pharmacies commitment to high standards.

How do I know a website is providing quality compounded products?

Your online compounding pharmacy is likely trustworthy if:

1. Your medication always requires a prescription from a doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant
2. The compounding pharmacy provides a physical address and telephone number in the United States
3. The compounding pharmacy has a licensed pharmacist on staff to answer your questions
4. The compounding pharmacy is licensed with a state board of pharmacy

What are the red flags for ordering compounded medications online?

There are several red flags that should make you question the quality of the product and the compounded pharmacy. Pay attention to the following red flags:

1. If you are encouraged or allowed to pay in cryptocurrency
2. If the pharmacy offers next day shipping – a compunded medication that is created for the specific patient is 1-2 weeks for compounding.
3. The compounding pharmacy uses brand names in their advertising or on their packaging such as “Ozempic” or “Zepbound”
4. The pharmacy does not require a doctor’s prescription
5. The pharmacy sends medication that has no expiration date or has a foreign language on it
6. Offers deep discounts or prices that seem too good to be true

How do I know to trust a telehealth provider?

1. Determine the credentials of your provider. You can check their professional website for their qualifications or ask them directly.
2. Response time. Confirm your provider is available as a resource and can provide quick response times when appropriate.
3. Time between appointment request for a consult and scheduling of consultation.
4. Check for a better business bureau accreditation or google reviews of the practice.
5. Ask about the practice on sites like reddit.

What should I look for in an online weight loss program?

Confirm your online telehealth provider has a HIPAA complaint program to protect your personal information and is located within the United States along with providing medication that is compounded within the United States. If the weight loss program offers deep discounts or prices that seem too good to be true, you should question the quality of the medication you are receiving.