The Truth About Compounded GLP-1 Medications

Not all compounding pharmacies are created equal. We compare certified providers so you can find safe, affordable semaglutide and tirzepatide from pharmacies that meet pharmaceutical-grade standards.

Compare Providers Safety Guide
20 Verified Providers
FDA Warning Letters Tracked
Updated November 2025

Important FDA Notice

Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. The FDA has issued warnings to several compounding pharmacies for safety violations. We track regulatory actions and help you identify providers with clean safety records.

$200-400
Typical Monthly Cost
503a vs 503b
Pharmacy Types Explained
15-20%
Average Weight Loss
Legal
When Done Correctly

Top Certified GLP-1 Providers

We compare pharmacies based on certifications, safety records, pricing, and transparency. All providers listed have clean FDA inspection histories.

Fridays Health

★★★★★
503b FDA-Registered
Semaglutide: Coming Soon
Tirzepatide: Coming Soon
LegitScript PCAB

MEDVi

★★★★★
503a State-Licensed
Semaglutide: Coming Soon
Tirzepatide: Coming Soon
LegitScript
View All 20 Providers

Understanding 503a vs 503b Pharmacies

This is the most important distinction when choosing a compounding pharmacy. It determines oversight, testing standards, and safety protocols.

503b

FDA-Registered Outsourcing Facilities

FDA Oversight
Direct FDA registration and inspection authority
Current Good Manufacturing Practices
Must follow cGMP standards like drug manufacturers
Stricter Testing Requirements
Mandatory potency and sterility testing per batch
Can Ship Nationally
Fewer state restrictions on distribution
Recommended For
Maximum safety and transparency. Ideal for those prioritizing pharmaceutical-grade standards.
503a

Traditional Compounding Pharmacies

State Board Oversight
Regulated by state pharmacy boards, not FDA directly
Patient-Specific Prescriptions
Must have individual prescription for each patient
USP Standards
Follow USP <797> for sterile compounding
More State Restrictions
May have limitations on shipping sterile compounds
Can Be Safe When
Pharmacy has LegitScript certification and transparent third-party testing. Verify credentials carefully.

Bottom Line

Both can be safe when properly operated, but 503b facilities have stricter federal oversight. Our comparison table shows which type each provider uses and their specific certifications.

How to Verify a Safe Provider

Don't trust marketing claims. Check these verifiable credentials before ordering.

1

Check LegitScript Certification

Visit LegitScript.com and search the pharmacy name. Certified pharmacies meet operational and legal compliance standards.

2

Verify 503b FDA Registration

For 503b facilities, check the FDA's Registered Outsourcing Facilities database. Get the facility name from the provider.

3

Request Certificate of Analysis (COA)

Ask for third-party COAs showing potency (95-105%), sterility testing, and endotoxin testing for your specific batch.

4

Search FDA Warning Letters

Check the FDA Warning Letters database. Any violations in the past 3 years are a red flag.

5

Look for PCAB Accreditation (Rare)

PCAB accreditation is voluntary but the gold standard. Check PCAB.org–less than 1% of pharmacies have it.

Red Flags to Avoid:

  • • Won't disclose pharmacy name or location
  • • Can't provide COA or batch testing documentation
  • • Unusually cheap pricing (cutting corners on quality)
  • • No LegitScript certification
  • • Recent FDA warning letters

Frequently Asked Questions

Are compounded GLP-1 medications legal?
Yes, when done correctly. Federal law allows pharmacies to compound medications when there is a drug shortage or when a patient needs a clinically significant difference (like a different salt form, dosage, or delivery method). As of November 2025, compounding remains legal but providers must create formulations that differ meaningfully from brand-name products.
Is compounded semaglutide as safe as brand-name Ozempic or Wegovy?
It depends entirely on the pharmacy. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved, meaning they haven't undergone the same rigorous testing. However, pharmacies that follow cGMP standards, use FDA-registered 503b facilities, and provide third-party testing can produce high-quality medications. The FDA has found potency variations ranging from 42-170% in some compounded GLP-1 products, which is why choosing a certified provider is critical.
How much does compounded semaglutide cost compared to brand-name?
Brand-name Wegovy typically costs $1,000-1,400 per month without insurance. Compounded semaglutide ranges from $200-400 per month, including consultation fees. The wide price range reflects different pharmacy types, included services, and quality standards. Lower prices may indicate corners being cut on testing or quality control.
What's the difference between semaglutide and tirzepatide?
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it targets two pathways instead of one. Clinical trials show tirzepatide typically produces greater weight loss (15-22.5% vs 10-15%), but it may also have more gastrointestinal side effects. Both are available in compounded form.
Can I use my HSA or FSA for compounded GLP-1 medications?
Yes, if you have a prescription and meet BMI requirements (typically BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 with weight-related conditions). HSA/FSA funds can be used for prescription weight loss medications. Check with your specific provider to confirm they process HSA/FSA payments.
What should I do if I experience side effects?
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, especially during dose increases. These typically improve over time. Contact your prescribing provider immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain, vision changes, or signs of pancreatitis. You can also report adverse events to the FDA via MedWatch.

Ready to Find a Safe Provider?

Compare certified pharmacies, check safety records, and make an informed decision.

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