How to Read a Compounded GLP-1 Label

When your compounded semaglutide arrives, the vial label might look like a jumble of numbers and abbreviations. But once you know what to look for, it's straightforward—and understanding your label helps you dose accurately and use your medication with confidence.

Let's break down each element you'll find on a typical compounded GLP-1 label.

A Sample Label Breakdown

Here's what a typical compounded semaglutide label looks like:

Let's decode each part.

The Medication Name

"Semaglutide" — This confirms what's in the vial. You might also see "Semaglutide Injection" or "Semaglutide (compounded)." Some labels include additional ingredients like "Semaglutide with B12" or "Semaglutide with L-Carnitine."

Make sure the medication name matches what your provider prescribed. If something looks different than expected, contact your provider before using.

Total Amount vs. Concentration

This is the most important part to understand for accurate dosing.

Total Amount

"5mg/2mL" means the vial contains 5 milligrams of semaglutide total, dissolved in 2 milliliters of liquid.

Concentration

"2.5mg/mL" tells you how much semaglutide is in each milliliter. This is what you use to calculate your dose.

Common Concentrations

Compounded semaglutide typically comes in these concentrations:

• 2.5mg/mL — Common for starter doses
• 5mg/mL — Common for maintenance doses
• 10mg/mL — Higher concentration for higher doses (less volume to inject)

Higher concentrations mean you inject a smaller volume for the same dose—which can mean less discomfort and faster injections.

Calculating Your Dose

Your provider prescribes a dose in milligrams (like 0.5mg or 1mg). Your vial label shows concentration in mg/mL. Here's how to find the volume to inject:

Volume (mL) = Prescribed Dose (mg) ÷ Concentration (mg/mL)

Example Calculations

Note on units: Standard insulin syringes show "units" where 100 units = 1mL. So 0.1mL = 10 units, 0.5mL = 50 units, etc.

Route of Administration

"For Subcutaneous Injection" tells you how to use the medication. Subcutaneous means into the fatty tissue just under the skin—not into muscle.

Common injection sites include the abdomen (avoiding the area around your belly button), the front of your thighs, and the back of your upper arms (if someone else is injecting).

Storage Instructions

"Store Refrigerated 2-8°C (36-46°F)" means keep it in the fridge—not the freezer, not room temperature.

Some vials may be stable at room temperature for a limited time (often noted on the label). But when in doubt, refrigerate. Proper storage helps maintain potency until the expiration date.

Lot Number

"Lot: SEM-2025-1234" is the batch identifier. Every vial from the same compounding run shares the same lot number.

Keep track of this number. If you ever need to report an issue to the pharmacy or FDA, the lot number helps identify exactly which batch your medication came from.

Beyond-Use Date (BUD)

"BUD: 03/15/2026" is the expiration date for compounded medications. "BUD" stands for Beyond-Use Date—after this date, the pharmacy can't guarantee potency or sterility.

Don't confuse BUD with the date you should finish the vial. BUD is the absolute last date the medication is considered stable. Once you start using a multi-dose vial, typical guidance is to use it within 28 days, even if the BUD is later.

Pharmacy Information

The label should include the compounding pharmacy's name, address, and phone number. This tells you who made your medication and who to contact with questions.

If this information is missing, that's a red flag. Legitimate pharmacies always identify themselves on medication labels.

What Should NOT Be on the Label

Watch out for labels that include brand names like "Ozempic" or "Wegovy" (these are Novo Nordisk trademarks—compounded products shouldn't use them), claims of "FDA-approved" (compounded medications are not FDA-approved), or vague or missing pharmacy information.

When to Contact Your Provider

Reach out if the medication name doesn't match your prescription, the concentration is different than you expected, storage instructions are missing, the BUD has passed, or anything about the label seems unclear or inconsistent.

Your provider and pharmacy want you to succeed—they're happy to clarify any confusion.

Quick Reference Checklist

When your vial arrives, confirm:

• ✓ Medication name matches your prescription
• ✓ Concentration is clearly stated (mg/mL)
• ✓ Route says "subcutaneous injection"
• ✓ Storage instructions are included
• ✓ Lot number is present
• ✓ BUD (expiration) is in the future
• ✓ Pharmacy name and contact info are visible
• ✓ Vial arrived cold (with ice packs)

If all boxes check, you're good to go!