Compounded GLP-1 Medications
An Option When FDA-Approved Medications Aren’t Accessible or Medically Appropriate for an Individual Patient
Medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide can be highly effective for weight loss. But sometimes, the commercially manufactured versions aren’t available — or they may not be medically appropriate for an individual patient. In those cases, compounded GLP-1s may be considered under medical supervision.
At PrecisionMD Wellness and Weight Loss, our providers work with licensed compounding pharmacies to ensure that patients have safe options when FDA-approved products are not accessible or medically appropriate for an individual patient.
What Are Compounded GLP-1s?
Compounded GLP-1s are custom-prepared prescriptions that may include semaglutide or tirzepatide. It’s important to note that compounded medications are not the same as FDA-approved drugs and are only prescribed when commercial versions are not accessible or appropriate for a specific patient.
What Are Compounded Medications?
Compounded medications are custom-made prescriptions prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy. Unlike mass-produced brand-name drugs, they are created to meet a specific patient’s needs.
With weight loss, compounding may be considered when:
- The FDA-approved version is in shortage and not commercially available
- A specific dosage strength or form is not available from the manufacturer
- A patient has a unique medical need, such as an allergy to an inactive ingredient in the brand-name product
At PrecisionMD, we only partner with licensed, accredited compounding pharmacies that meet strict safety and quality standards. This ensures that every prescription begins with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients vetted for purity, consistency, and safety.
Our LegitScript Certification
PrecisionMD Wellness and Weight Loss is LegitScript certified, meaning our practice has been independently verified for compliance, safety, and transparency in how we advertise and provide care online.
For patients, LegitScript certification means:
- We meet strict standards for patient safety and ethical advertising
- Our online presence has been reviewed and approved for accuracy and compliance
- You can trust that the information you see about our services is legitimate and meets regulatory requirements
When Compounded GLP-1s May Be Prescribed
We follow all FDA guidance and only prescribe compounded GLP-1s when there is a valid medical reason, such as:
- National shortages of FDA-approved medications
- Special dosage or formulation needs not available commercially
- Unique patient circumstances, such as allergies to inactive ingredients or other clinical concerns that make the commercial version inappropriate for an individual patient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are compounded GLP-1s the same as commercial medications?
No. While they may contain semaglutide or tirzepatide, compounded versions are not identical to branded FDA-approved medications. They are prescribed only when a commercial product isn’t available or medically appropriate for an individual patient.
Are compounded GLP-1s safe?
Yes — when obtained from a licensed and accredited compounding pharmacy. At PrecisionMD, we only work with pharmacies that meet strict quality standards and use APIs from FDA green list–approved manufacturers.
Why would I be prescribed a compounded version?
This may happen if the brand-name medication is in shortage, if a specific dosage is not available, or if you have a medical need that makes the commercial product inappropriate for you as an individual patient.
Will I always stay on compounded versions?
Not necessarily. If FDA-approved medications become available and appropriate for your needs, your provider may recommend switching.
What about “microdosing” GLP-1s for inflammation or longevity?
Some people are interested in using very low doses of GLP-1 medications (like semaglutide or tirzepatide) for potential benefits beyond weight loss — such as reducing inflammation, improving metabolic health, or supporting longevity. This is sometimes called “microdosing.”
It’s important to know that:
- This is not an FDA-approved indication for GLP-1 medications.
- Research is still early on how GLP-1s may impact inflammation or long-term health outcomes.
- At PrecisionMD, our priority is always safety, effectiveness, and evidence-based care.
That said, our approach is always to use the lowest effective dose that works for your goals — whether that’s appetite control, weight management, or supporting overall metabolic health.
How much do compounded GLP-1s cost?
Compounded GLP-1 medications start at $150 per month. Exact cost may vary based on dosage and the compounding pharmacy. Our team will review all pricing with you before you begin treatment.
How much weight will I lose with a compounded GLP-1?
It’s important to understand that compounded GLP-1 medications are not FDA-approved and have not been formally studied in clinical trials. Because of this, we cannot provide an average or expected weight loss for compounded versions.
Clinical trials of FDA-approved medications (such as Wegovy and Zepbound) have shown average weight loss of 15–20% of total body weight, but results with compounded medications may not be the same. Every patient’s response is different. At PrecisionMD, we use compounded GLP-1s only when appropriate and monitor your progress closely to keep treatment safe and effective for you.
What are the side effects of compounded GLP-1s?
The most common side effects are mild digestive symptoms such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or stomach upset, especially when starting or increasing the dose. Some patients may also experience fatigue or decreased appetite.
Serious side effects are rare but can include pancreatitis or gallbladder problems. At PrecisionMD, we start with the lowest effective dose, increase slowly, and monitor you closely to keep treatment safe and tolerable.
Compounded GLP-1s at PrecisionMD
We understand the frustration when access to medication is limited. Our role is to make sure you have a safe, effective, and medically monitored option — never leaving you to search for unsafe or unregulated sources on your own.
If you’ve struggled to access commercial GLP-1 medications, schedule a consultation to discuss your options safely with our team.
Compounded GLP-1s in Decatur, Madison, and Across Alabama
Patients across Decatur, Madison, Huntsville, Athens, Cullman, Hartselle, Hazel Green, Harvest, and New Market trust PrecisionMD for safe guidance on weight loss medications. With telemedicine statewide, we can help you explore your options no matter where you live in Alabama.
Schedule your consultation today to see if a compounded GLP-1 is right for you.
