You’ve probably heard of Ozempic, Zepbound and Wegovy weight-loss drugs. These variations come directly from pharmaceutical companies and are certainly a proven option. However, with compounded weight-loss drugs, you can get the same drug with the same effect for a much lower price. These drugs are made in specialist pharmacies, handmade by pharmacists exclusively according to a doctor’s prescription.
The pharmacist takes the active substance (the basic peptide) and mixes it with other substances, creating a customized formulation. This way, the dosage and form of use can be changed according to the doctor’s instructions. The pharmacist can add or remove a particular substance, making the medicine effective or preventing the allergenic effect of a substance found in the original formulation.
This method of preparing medications can be an excellent option for you if the original drug is currently unavailable or there is a general shortage. In addition, if the doctor advises you to use a specific dosage that’s not predefined, the pharmacist can adjust it and make a custom version just for you. The main advantage of compounded weight loss medications is the extremely low price compared to factory-produced GLP-1 agonists, while the effects remain the same.
The Rise of Compounded Weight Loss Medications
Due to their significant efficacy and rapid onset of action, approved GLP-1 agonists have gained tremendous popularity. Many celebrities have shared their transformations online in just a few weeks as a result of using these drugs. These medications have been scientifically tested and represent a proven option. However, due to their popularity, GLP-1 agonists have become highly sought after, leading to widespread shortages around the world (especially Ozempic) and high prices.
Compound weight loss medications offer effectiveness and affordability, which has led to their great popularity among patients. These drugs often represent a personalized version. If you cannot administer subcutaneous injections, a pharmacist can make you the same drug in the form of tablets or a spray. In addition, you can get the exact dose you need, which is not offered initially.
By consuming pharmaceutical-made weight loss drugs, you can save a lot of money, start therapy on time, and still enjoy the full drug weight loss effects. Pharmacists use the same active substance, which they can even improve by adding auxiliary substances. This way, the effect remains the same, or even better.
What is Obesity, and why is it Dangerous?
Obesity is a metabolic disease characterized by excessive accumulation of fat deposits in specific parts of the body. The reasons for the onset of obesity are numerous and are often intertwined.
The most common etiological factor, of course, is the intake of large amounts of calories that cannot be used up through physical activity. In addition, psychological disorders (emotional stress, anxiety disorder, or depression), hormonal imbalances (Cushing’s syndrome, hypothyroidism), or the use of certain groups of drugs (antipsychotics or antidepressants) also have a significant influence on the development of obesity.
If you are obese, you have probably experienced symptoms such as fatigue, mobility problems, excessive sweating, or bloating. If you do not treat this disease, it can lead to severe systemic cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders.
How Compounded GLP-1 Medications Work?
All GLP-1 agonists mimic the action of the hormone Glucagon-Like Peptide 1, which is naturally synthesized in the body of mammals. The pharmaceutical company versions and compounded medications work in a very similar way, with only minor differences. The basic mechanism of action of these drugs is reflected in the slowing of gastric emptying and the action of suppressing hunger and satiety centers in the hypothalamus. As a result of these mechanisms, a feeling of satiety is produced, and patients have a reduced desire to consume additional calories.
The use of these peptides leads to a decrease in appetite, which significantly accelerates the process of losing weight. This group of drugs has gained the most incredible popularity through the treatment of obesity.
Additionally, some GLP-1 agonists can stimulate the breakdown of fat deposits in the liver (lipolysis) or increase and accelerate energy expenditure. These effects, in combination, can significantly help with weight loss. However, scientific studies have confirmed the effectiveness of GLP-1 agonists in treating metabolic disorders such as Type 2 Diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, or metabolic syndrome. If you are struggling with obesity and insulin resistance, at the same time, compounded drugs may be the ideal solution for your problem.
Compounded vs. FDA-Approved Weight Loss Medications – Key Differences
If you want to start peptide therapy but are not sure whether to try compounded weight loss medication or go with standard FDA-approved GLP-1 agonists. If you are wondering whether both versions of the drugs will be similarly effective, there is no need to worry. Both versions are equally effective because the same active substance is used in both cases, which is responsible for all the beneficial effects of these peptides. The basic mechanism of action of these drugs is reflected in the imitation of the Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 hormone, which occurs with the same intensity in both tissue and manually administered drugs.
However, if you opt for compound weight loss medication, you can end up saving a lot of money. These versions are usually much more affordable than factory-made medications, which may influence your decision. In addition, this form of the drug is a custom-made version, which can be crucial if you want a strictly specified dosage or are allergic to one of the substances in the drug, so you need it to be removed from your medication.
Pharmacists make custom versions of the drugs by hand, so there is a possibility of some errors. However, with newer techniques and methods, the chance of significant side effects has been reduced to a minimum. It is almost indistinguishable from the side effects that still occur after using an FDA-approved GLP-1 agonist.
Potential Side Effects – What to Watch Out For?
Dose Variability
Compounded weight loss medications are made by hand in specially equipped pharmacies. Due to this method of preparation, the dosage of individual substances in the drug may vary. However, with newer technologies, machines, and equipment, the chance of experiencing side effects due to dose variability has been reduced to a minimum. If you notice any symptoms, consult a doctor.
Unverified Purity of the Substance
All substances used in the preparation of a medicine are stored in pharmacies under special conditions. However, due to incorrect storage, contamination of the substances may occur, resulting in their insufficient purity. If these substances are used in the preparation, unforeseen side effects may occur. However, pharmacies with a license to manufacture compounded weight loss medications are regularly controlled, which confirms the quality of the conditions in which the substances are stored. The chances of side effects occurring as a result of substance impurities are minimal.
Mutual Side Effects
FDA-approved GLP-1 agonists and compounded weight loss drugs have the same side effects, which do not differ much. Common mild effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. In addition, injection site reactions may occur, including redness, swelling, or itching. Pancreatitis is one of the rare and severe side effects that, according to scientific studies, and usually occurs as a result of improper use of the drug and requires additional therapy. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Final Thoughts – Are Compounded Weight Loss Medications the Right Choice?
If you recognize symptoms of obesity or other metabolic disorders, it is crucial to know how dangerous these diseases can be if not treated in time. GLP-1 agonists can be used as FDA-approved generic versions (Ozempic, Zepbound, or Wegovy) or as compounded weight loss medications.
Whichever option you choose, you won’t go wrong. With hand-made medicines, you can get a personalized version of the drug and save a significant amount of money. The effectiveness and safety of these two options are no different, so you will definitely get the desired appearance and improve your health. Now that you know all the pros and cons of compounded drugs, all that’s left is to get a prescription from your doctor and get your peptide. With proper use, the results will certainly not be limited. In short, you can do it!