Is compounded Semaglutide safe for weight loss?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been struggling with my weight for decades, and recently heard about compounded Semaglutide from a coworker who has lost 40 pounds. I am 51, 5 feet 6 inches, 255 pounds, with high blood pressure and prediabetes.

My insurance denied Wegovy, saying my BMI is not high enough to qualify, but a wellness clinic is offering compounded Semaglutide for a third of the price. I am tempted but nervous after reading about some compounding pharmacy problems in the news.

Please answer a few of my questions:

What is the real difference between the FDA-approved versions and these compounded ones?
Do they work the same?
I have heard horror stories about stomach issues; how bad are they really?
The clinic wants me to pay for three months upfront, which is still a lot for me. Is this medication safe for someone with kidney stones and slight liver impairment from years of struggling with my weight?
What monitoring would I need while taking it?

Kindly suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

If your BMI (body mass index) is:

Under 18.5 - You are very underweight and possibly malnourished.
18.5 to 24.9 - You have a healthy weight range for young and middle-aged adults.
25.0 to 29.9 - You are overweight.

Currently, Semaglutide is only approved for weight loss under the brand name Wegovy. The typical dose for weight loss is 2.4 milligrams, administered weekly as subcutaneous (under the skin) self-injections.

However, as interest in Semaglutide for weight loss continues to grow, healthcare professionals are finding ways to manage the demand. Many prescribe other brands of Semaglutide, such as Ozempic and Rybelsus, off-label (using a drug that is FDA (Food and Drug Administration)- approved for a different reason).

People taking Semaglutide for weight loss may experience:

Dizziness.
Fatigue.
Gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, constipation, and gas.
Headache.
Stomach issues, including nausea, vomiting, pain, or distension (bloat).

How to prevent Semaglutide side effects?

Eat slowly.
Eat smaller portions.
Eat bland, low-fat foods (crackers, rice, and toast).
Eat foods like soup that are high in water.
Drink clear beverages (water, ginger ale, clear broth, tea, and sports drinks).
Avoid greasy, fried foods.

Most clinical trials studying Semaglutide for weight loss lasted between 68 weeks and two years, but there is no clear answer as to how long you must continue the medication to maintain your weight loss results.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.