The use of glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for the treatment of obesity has increased significantly over the past year. Due to high demands and limited supply, patients and clinicians are turning to compounding pharmacies. Compounded medications are those that have been mixed or altered, typically to meet the specific needs of a patient. FDA initially released a statement in May 2023, cautioning consumers that off-label versions of compounded semaglutide could potentially be unsafe.1 The Obesity Medicine Association also released a position statement noting that prescribers and patients should avoid the use of compounded polypeptides from undisclosed sources.2 This statement is to make PES members aware and caution about the availability and use of these compounded medications.   Clinicians and patients, should exercise caution when exploring options for non-brand name medications, particularly avoiding the use of non-FDA approved medications and those that come from non-FDA-approved compounding pharmacies.

 

References:

  1. Medications Containing Semaglutide Marketed for Type 2 Diabetes or Weight Loss | FDA. Accessed October 20, 2023. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-patients-and-providers/medications-containing-semaglutide-marketed-type-2-diabetes-or-weight-loss
  2. Fitch A, Auriemma A, Bays HE. Compounded peptides: An Obesity Medicine Association Position Statement. Obesity Pillars. 2023;6:100061. doi:10.1016/J.OBPILL.2023.100061
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