How Much Does Compounded Semaglutide Cost for Weight Loss?

What is Compounded Semaglutide?

Compounded semaglutide is a customized formulation of the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy. It is made by a compounding pharmacy to meet individual dosing needs. The FDA has not approved compounded semaglutide products.

Cost of Brand Name Semaglutide

The brand name semaglutide injectables like Ozempic and Wegovy are extremely costly, with prices typically ranging from:

• Ozempic: $850-$1,100 per 1 mg dose pen
• Wegovy: $1,300-$1,500 per 2.4 mg dose pen

Most insurance plans do not cover these medications for weight loss purposes. Out-of-pocket costs for a month's supply can easily exceed $1000-1500 in some cases.

Why Compounded Semaglutide is Cheaper

Compounded semaglutide is much less expensive because:

• No large pharmaceutical company marketing or R&D costs
• Made in small batches versus mass production
• Avoid brand name, on-patent drug markups
• Can mix strengths and doses tailored to patient needs

Cost of Compounded Semaglutide

The cost of compounded semaglutide can vary depending on the dose, pharmacy, and location but is typically:

• $150-$300 per month for 0.25-1 mg doses
• $250-$500 per month for 2-2.4 mg doses

With a valid prescription, compounded semaglutide can cost hundreds less per month compared to the brand versions. However, it may not be covered by insurance.

Compounding Semaglutide Dosage Forms

Compounded semaglutide can come in several possible dosage forms:

Subcutaneous Injection

Most commonly, compounding pharmacies will produce semaglutide as a sterile injectable solution tailored to specific dosing. It is typically injected under the skin of the abdomen, thigh, or arm.

Oral Capsules

Some pharmacies may offer semaglutide in oral capsule form, though absorption may be less consistent than injections.

Sublingual Troches

Rapidly dissolving tabs or troches are also an option for absorbing semaglutide via the tissues under the tongue.

Finding Compounded Semaglutide Online

Reputable compounding pharmacies with licensed pharmacists can often be found online that will ship compounded semaglutide nationwide. However, buyers should research and vet pharmacies carefully.

Talking to Your Doctor About Compounded Semaglutide

It's important to discuss compounded semaglutide with your healthcare provider to weigh the pros and cons versus FDA-approved formulations. They can write you a prescription appropriate to your needs and medical history if they approve of this option.

Is Compounded Semaglutide Safe?

There are some risks to keep in mind with compounded semaglutide:

• No FDA testing and quality oversight
• Purity and potency standards may vary
• Limited research on effectiveness and side effects
• Shelf-life and sterility may be less stable

Work closely with your doctor to monitor for side effects and efficacy if using compounded semaglutide.

Potential Side Effects

Possible side effects of compounded semaglutide may include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Headaches, fatigue
• Constipation
• Low blood sugar
• Pancreatitis
• Gallbladder problems

Promptly report any worrisome reactions to your physician. They may need to adjust the dosage or switch medications if side effects are severe.

Efficacy for Weight Loss

Smaller clinical studies suggest compounded semaglutide can be effective for weight loss similarly to Wegovy/Ozempic, but more research is still needed. Most trials have focused on the FDA-approved brands.

In one 2020 study, patients lost an average of 17% of their body weight over 28 weeks taking compounded 2.4 mg semaglutide daily.

Other GLP-1 Medications

Other newer GLP-1 receptor agonists similar to semaglutide include:

• Tirzepatide
• Efpeglenatide
• Cagrilintide

Compounding pharmacies may offer formulations of these medications as well. However, there is even less data on their safety, potency, and efficacy.

Lifestyle Changes

For optimal results, compounded semaglutide should be combined with healthy lifestyle adjustments like:

• Calorie-controlled, low glycemic diet
• Regular exercise and activity
• Stress management
• Adequate sleep
• Behavioral counseling

Work with a healthcare team for guidance on supplementary diet, fitness, and lifestyle changes to complement your medication regimen.

The Bottom Line

In summary, compounded semaglutide typically costs $150-$500 per month depending on the dose and pharmacy. It offers big savings over the FDA-approved Ozempic and Wegovy. However, compounded medications come with greater risks and uncertainties. Talk to your doctor to see if trying compounded semaglutide makes sense for your health needs and weight loss goals.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.