For many people, the challenge of losing weight can be frustrating and discouraging. Although various methods and treatments are available for weight loss, not all of them are effective or safe. One potential solution that has gained attention in recent years for its weight loss benefits is compounded semaglutide.
However, as with any medication, there are potential side effects that need to be considered. In this article, we will explore what compounded semaglutide is and the possible side effects associated with its use.
Defining Semaglutide For Weight Loss
Semaglutide is one of a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Initially, it was used for managing type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin release, thereby lowering blood sugar levels. Semaglutide works by mimicking the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in the body, which is the hormone that regulates insulin secretion and helps control appetite.
However, studies have shown that semaglutide can also assist with weight loss by both suppressing the appetite and slowing down digestion. This led to its off-label use for weight management.
In 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved semaglutide for chronic weight management in adults who are either obese or who are overweight and also have a minimum of one weight-related condition, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes.
Semaglutide is the first drug specifically approved for chronic weight management since 2014, providing a new option for people struggling with obesity or who are overweight. However, the FDA has warned that it should not be used as a standalone treatment and must be used in combination with increased physical activity and a reduced-calorie diet for optimal results.
Patient Eligibility On Compounded Semaglutide For Weight Loss
As with any medication, semaglutide for weight loss is not suitable for everyone. Patients have to meet specific criteria to be eligible for this treatment option. According to the FDA’s guidelines for using semaglutide, only individuals who are either obese or overweight and have at least one weight-related health condition may be considered candidates for this treatment. Before starting this medication, patients must discuss their eligibility and suitability with a healthcare professional.
Healthcare professionals can offer guidance and support throughout the treatment journey, monitoring for potential side effects and adjusting dosages as needed. The following are some of the factors that healthcare professionals may consider when determining a patient’s eligibility for compounded semaglutide for weight loss:
BMI
BMI (body mass index) measures body fat based on an individual’s height and weight. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy. Patients with a BMI above this range may be suitable candidates for compounded semaglutide for weight loss since individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher are considered obese.
Medical History
A patient’s medical history is also an essential factor in determining eligibility for semaglutide for weight loss. Individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, or other weight-related health conditions may benefit greatly from this treatment option. However, those with certain medical conditions, such as a history of pancreatitis or thyroid disorders, may not be eligible.
Lifestyle
Cultivating a healthy lifestyle is crucial for successful weight loss. Patients committed to making sustainable changes in their diet and exercise habits may be better suited for compounded semaglutide treatment. This is because the medication works best when accompanied by healthy lifestyle choices.
What Sets Compounded Semaglutide Apart From Standard Semaglutide?
It’s important to understand that compounded semaglutide is different from standard semaglutide. Compounded semaglutide is a medication prepared by a compounding pharmacy, while standard semaglutide is an FDA-approved medication. It differs from standard semaglutide in several ways:
- Dosage: Semaglutide consists of a fixed dosage strength, whereas compounded semaglutide can be customized to fit the individual patient’s needs.
- Availability: Standard semaglutide is a mass-produced medication that can be easily found at pharmacies and is available with a valid prescription. In contrast, compounded semaglutide must be prepared at a compounding pharmacy upon prescription.
- Customization: Compounded semaglutide allows for customization, as healthcare professionals can combine it with other compounds, such as cyanocobalamin, to tailor the treatment to an individual’s specific needs and preferences. This can be beneficial for patients who may have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients.
- FDA approval: Standard semaglutide has been approved by the FDA for chronic weight management, while compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved for this specific use. This is simply because no compounded medication can be approved by the FDA due to its customized nature. However, compounding pharmacies follow strict quality standards and regulations in order to ensure the efficacy and safety of their compounded medications.
Common Side Effects Of Compounded Semaglutide
As with any medication, compounded semaglutide for weight loss may cause some side effects. However, these side effects are typically mild and tend to improve over time. Still, it is essential to be aware of what these potential side effects are and to discuss them with a healthcare professional before starting this treatment.
It’s worth noting that if the medication isn’t compounded correctly and consists of too many active ingredients or too high of a dosage, it may cause adverse effects. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain compounded semaglutide from a reputable compounding pharmacy and follow the prescribed dosage instructions.
Additionally, certain side effects could also result from incorrect administration of the medication, such as injecting it incorrectly.
Common side effects of compounded semaglutide include:
Nausea
Nausea is one of the most common side effects of semaglutide. To minimize nausea, healthcare professionals may recommend beginning with a lower dose before gradually increasing it over time. Eating smaller meals and avoiding high-fat foods may also help alleviate nausea. Generally speaking, feelings of nausea tend to subside as the body gets used to the medication over time.
Upset Stomach
An upset stomach can include symptoms like gas, bloating, indigestion, and vomiting. It can also be managed by starting with a lower dosage. You can also adjust when you take the medication, such as before or after eating, to see what works best for you.
Reaction On The Injection Site
Since compounded semaglutide is an injectable medication, individuals may experience reactions at the injection site. This can include redness, swelling, and pain or discomfort. To prevent these side effects, healthcare professionals should provide instructions on proper injection technique and site rotation.
Diarrhea
Just like nausea and upset stomach, diarrhea is a common side effect of compounded semaglutide for weight loss. Healthcare professionals may recommend staying hydrated and consuming more foods that are rich in soluble fibers to manage this side effect. Starting on a smaller dose and eating smaller meals can also help prevent diarrhea.
Constipation
Constipation is less common than diarrhea and nausea, but it can still occur as a side effect of compounded semaglutide. Adequate hydration and fiber intake can help to prevent constipation. If constipation persists, discussing it with a healthcare professional for further advice is essential. Like other side effects, constipation tends to improve over time as the body adapts to the medication.
Fatigue
Because semaglutide for weight loss works by making you less hungry, it may also result in feelings of fatigue, especially during the first few weeks of starting the treatment. This is because, as a result of the medication, you’ll consume less food and, therefore, less energy. To combat fatigue, you should get enough sleep and nutrients from your meals. Exercise will also help boost your energy levels.
Belching
Compounded semaglutide may cause belching or burping due to the medication’s effects on the gastrointestinal system. Adjusting your diet and avoiding foods known to cause acid reflux symptoms, such as spicy or fatty foods, can help address excessive belching.
Flatulence
Flatulence can be caused by swallowing air, certain foods that produce gas during digestion, and the breakdown of undigested food in the large intestine. Because compounded semaglutide slows down digestion, food ferments for longer, thereby leading to flatulence. You may experience flatulence when starting semaglutide, but it should subside as your body adjusts.
Elevated Risk for Developing Medical Conditions
In extremely rare cases, compounded semaglutide may increase the risk of developing certain medical conditions. These include:
-
-
- Pancreatitis: While studies have shown no increased risk of acute pancreatitis (AP) with the use of subcutaneous semaglutide, some evidence suggests a possible link between GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and pancreatic inflammation. In fact, a case study reported acute pancreatitis in a patient who recently started on subcutaneous semaglutide for type 2 diabetes. This highlights the importance of monitoring for any signs or symptoms of pancreatitis when using GLP-1 RAs, even though developing pancreatitis while on semaglutide is extremely rare.
-
-
-
- Acute kidney injury: Compounded semaglutide may increase the risk of developing acute kidney injury, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Although semaglutide doesn’t directly cause dehydration (which can affect the kidneys), it can indirectly contribute to dehydration by causing increased urination and nausea. This dehydration (as well as other symptoms, like diarrhea) can lead to decreased blood flow to the kidneys.
-
-
-
- Thyroid cancer: There are some rare reports of thyroid cancer in individuals taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, a class of medications that includes semaglutide. It is not clear if compounded semaglutide specifically increases this risk, but healthcare professionals should monitor for any signs or symptoms of thyroid cancer while on this medication.
-
-
-
- Gallstones: Weight loss can increase the risk of developing gallstones. Compounded semaglutide may also contribute to this risk by slowing down stomach emptying and altering bile production, which can result in the formation of gallstones.
-
Managing The Medication Side Effects
If you’re experiencing even mild side effects, you should always consult with your healthcare provider. They can adjust your dosage or provide guidance on managing these symptoms. You may also find the following tips useful in managing the side effects of compounded semaglutide:
Proper Hydration
Drinking plenty of water is crucial for managing most medication side effects, including constipation, diarrhea, and fatigue. Water can help keep your body hydrated and regulate digestion, which can reduce the severity of these symptoms.
Dietary Adjustments
Some side effects, like upset stomach and belching, can be managed by adjusting your diet. Avoiding certain foods that are known to cause gas, such as beans and dairy products, may help reduce discomfort. Additionally, eating smaller meals more frequently instead of larger ones can also aid in managing symptoms.
Exercise
Regular physical activity can help relieve some side effects, like constipation and fatigue. It can also improve your overall well-being while also supporting weight loss efforts.
Thorough Examination
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional. They can conduct a thorough examination and determine the best course of action for managing these symptoms.
Proper Medication Administration
Proper administration of compounded semaglutide can also help minimize side effects. For example, injecting the medication subcutaneously in the recommended areas and rotating injection sites can prevent skin irritation and discomfort.
FDA’s Stance On Unregulated Sources Of Compounded Semaglutide
The FDA must approve any mass-produced medication before it can be sold on the market. This approval process ensures that medications are safe, effective, and manufactured under strict quality standards. Compounded semaglutide is not a mass-produced medication; therefore, it does not require FDA approval for distribution. This is because compounded medications are individually prepared by pharmacists and tailored to meet a specific patient’s needs based on a prescription from their healthcare provider.
However, that doesn’t mean the FDA has nothing to say about compounded medications, such as semaglutide. In Section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), the FDA outlines specific requirements for compounding pharmacies. These include adhering to strict manufacturing standards, using ingredients from FDA-approved sources, and only producing medications that are not commercially available or in short supply.
The FDA has also warned against purchasing compounded semaglutide from unregulated sources. These unregulated sources may not meet the FDA standards, making the medication potentially unsafe and ineffective.
It’s essential to obtain compounded semaglutide only from a licensed pharmacy. This ensures that your medication is safe and effective and that you can receive proper guidance on managing potential side effects.
We Provide Regulated and Compliant Compounded Semaglutide
At UCP, we understand the importance of quality and compliance in compounding medications. Our experienced pharmacists specialize in creating safe and effective compounded semaglutide for weight loss while adhering to strict FDA regulations and standards.
We are accredited by the Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation Board (PCAB), demonstrating our commitment to providing high-quality compounded medications. Our team uses ingredients from FDA-approved sources and follows all necessary protocols to ensure the effectiveness and safety of our compounded semaglutide. For example, we use ISO- & USP-compliant facilities and equipment, and we invest $30,000 every month in third-party testing to ensure we’re meeting and exceeding all compounding potency and sterility standards.
With UCP, you can trust that your compounded semaglutide is made with the highest care and expertise. Our goal is to provide personalized medication solutions that improve patient outcomes while maintaining the highest levels of safety and compliance.
Work With A Trusted Pharmacy For Your Compounded Semaglutide
Compounded semaglutide can be a beneficial medication for managing weight loss. However, obtaining this medication from a trusted and licensed pharmacy is important to ensure safety and effectiveness.
At UCP, we are committed to providing high-quality compounded medications while adhering to strict FDA regulations and standards. By choosing a trusted pharmacy like UCP, patients can have peace of mind knowing their compounded semaglutide is made with the highest level of care and expertise. Consult your healthcare provider today to see if compounded semaglutide is the right option for you, and trust UCP for all your compounding needs.
Start your weight loss journey with confidence. University Compounding Pharmacy is your trusted source for compounded semaglutide.
