What is a compounded GLP-1?

Compounded GLP-1 medications are customized versions of GLP-1 medications, prepared by licensed compounding pharmacies. Compounding is typically used when:

• A patient needs a non-standard dose

• A prescriber requests a formulation without certain additives, or with a specific ingredient such as vitamin B12

• A commercial GLP-1 drug is in short supply

Compounded medications are mixed on demand and may come in different concentrations, volumes, or delivery formats than commercial brands. However, compounded GLP-1s are not FDA-approved, even though the active pharmaceutical ingredient may be the same. Only certain pharmacies (such as 503A or 503B facilities) are permitted to dispense them, and eligible compounded GLP-1 medications are included on the FDA-Green List.

Compounded GLP-1s must meet strict sterility and quality standards, and should always be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare clinician.