Understanding compounded semaglutide: What it is and how it works

What you’ll learn:

• Compounded semaglutide offers a cost-effective and accessible alternative to Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® during shortages.
• Noom GLP-1^Rx delivers compounded semaglutide directly to your door, providing personalized dosing and ongoing clinical support.
• Compounded semaglutide will be taken slightly differently than Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®, but it will work similarly.

You’re not alone if you’ve had trouble finding Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®. People who’ve been prescribed these semaglutide medications for weight loss and diabetes have been reporting shortages along with extraordinarily high costs. The good news is that there is another option: compounded semaglutide*.

Compounded semaglutide is an unbranded version of Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® that is custom-created by a special pharmacy. It offers significant cost savings, increased availability, and personalized dosing to meet your specific needs. As with branded versions, it can have side effects that need to be considered before starting the medication.

As part of Noom Med, we proudly offer a new program called Noom GLP-1^Rx, which includes affordable compounded semaglutide. The best part? It will be delivered directly to your door in just seven days. Here’s more info on compounded semaglutide so you can consider your options. 

What is compounded semaglutide?

As mentioned, compounded semaglutide is a custom-created version of semaglutide. Let’s answer some common questions about what this means and why it has become an alternative.

What is a compounded medication?

A compounded medication is created by a licensed pharmacy rather than a pharmaceutical company. While compounded medications are not FDA-approved in the same way as commercially manufactured drugs, they can be an accessible and cost-friendly option. Compounded medications available through Noom GLP-1^Rx are manufactured in an FDA-registered 503B pharmacy, and this 503B pharmacy undergoes FDA inspections and follows the FDA’s Current Good Manufacturing Process. 

Here are common reasons a medication is compounded:

• Drug shortages: When a specific drug is unavailable due to supply chain demands.
• Dosage: When a person needs a strength or dosage that is not available in commercially available products.
• Allergies: When a person is allergic to certain ingredients found in commercial medications.
• Drug combinations: When combining multiple medications is necessary for treatment.

Why has semaglutide become available as a compounded medication?

Semaglutide has been compounded because Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® are on the FDA’s drug shortage list. 

Compounded semaglutide also comes with a smaller price tag. If you qualify for Noom Med, your clinician will be able to prescribe compounded semaglutide through Noom GLP-1^Rx for just $149 for the first month. That price includes access to a telehealth clinician, medication delivered to your door, and the complete Noom program for tracking weight and food.

What’s the difference between a compounded medication and a generic version?

While both compounded and generic medications offer alternatives to brand-name drugs, there are key differences:

• Customization: Compounded medications are custom-made to meet a person’s specific needs. This can include adjusting the dosage, changing the form (e.g., from pill to liquid), or removing allergens. Generic medications are copies of brand-name drugs with the same active ingredients and dosage but are not customizable.
• Regulation: Generic medications are FDA-approved and must meet strict standards for quality, purity, and effectiveness. 
• Availability: Generic medications are widely available at most pharmacies. Compounded medications are typically made to order.

Why isn’t semaglutide available in a generic version? 

There are no generic versions of semaglutide on the market because semaglutide is under patent protection. Only the patent holder, Novo Nordisk, can manufacture and sell semaglutide until the patents expire. Semaglutide is expected to remain under patent protection in the U.S. until at least December 2031.

How does compounded semaglutide work for weight loss?

Compounded semaglutide works like its well-known siblings, Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®. It mimics a natural hormone in your body called GLP-1, which affects how your brain and gut communicate about hunger. By activating GLP-1 receptors, compounded semaglutide helps you feel full sooner and for longer, naturally reducing your appetite and leading to a lower calorie intake.

Is compounded semaglutide different from Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®?

While compounded semaglutide shares the same active ingredient as Ozempic^® and Wegovy^®, taking the medication will be a slightly different experience.

Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® come as preloaded injection pens, while Noom GLP-1^Rx compounded semaglutide is a vial of medication you draw into a syringe yourself. Like Ozempic^® or Wegovy^®, you inject the medication just under the skin of the stomach, thigh, or upper arm once per week.

Who can benefit from compounded semaglutide through Noom GLP-1^Rx?

Noom Med’s compounded semaglutide program is a good alternative for people who have had trouble filling their prescription for Ozempic^® or Wegovy^®. To be eligible for the program, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

• BMI requirement: The program is available to individuals with a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or higher, or greater than or equal to 27, with a weight-related medical condition, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes: People with metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes can benefit from compounded semaglutide as it aids in managing blood sugar levels and weight.
• Age: The program is available to people between 18 and 80.
• Pre-existing conditions: People with certain medical conditions should not take semaglutide. Your clinician can determine your eligibility. 

Is compounded semaglutide from Noom GLP-1^Rx offered in my state?

Compounded semaglutide through the Noom GLP-1^Rx is available in most states except Mississippi (MS) and Louisiana (LA). To verify availability in your state, read more about Noom Med.

How much does compounded semaglutide through Noom GLP-1^Rx cost?

Noom GLP-1^Rx offers competitive pricing that includes home-delivered compounded semaglutide. It costs $149 for the first month, followed by $837 for a three-month recurring subscription ($279 per month). See all Noom GLP-1^Rx and Noom Med plan options here. 

How do I get a prescription for Noom GLP-1^Rx, Noom’s compounded semaglutide option?

The first step is to see if you qualify for Noom Med. Then, the process is simple and convenient. Here’s an overview:

1. Take a brief intake survey: Share your health history, weight loss goals, and current medications. Based on this information, you’ll receive a recommended clinical plan.
2. Connect with a clinician: A licensed clinician will review your survey results and, if appropriate, provide a prescription—all online.
3. Start losing weight with medication and a customized treatment plan: If eligible, your medication will be shipped directly to you in seven days. You’ll also have access to Noom’s GLP-1 Companion*, designed to help you achieve sustainable weight loss.
4. Ongoing care and medication: Stay on course with continuous support from your clinician and access to medication refills as needed.

How does the shipping process work for compounded semaglutide?

Noom Med ensures the safe and timely delivery of compounded semaglutide directly to your door. The medication is carefully packaged to maintain sterility and efficacy, with clear instructions for use. 

Shipping times and delivery options may vary based on location, but Noom Med provides tracking information to keep you informed of shipment status. This streamlined process ensures you receive your medication promptly and securely in about seven days.

Compounded semaglutide: Risks and benefits

Compounded semaglutide offers potential benefits but can come with side effects and warnings you should be aware of. Here are some things to consider about where it’s made and potential side effects:

Where does Noom source its compounded semaglutide?

There are two types of compounding pharmacies: 503A (traditional pharmacies) and 503B (outsourcing facilities). While both can create compounded medications, 503B facilities are held to higher standards, similar to drug manufacturers.

We partner with trusted 503B pharmacies to create Noom GLP-1Rx compounded semaglutide. Learn more about the strict evaluation process we went through to choose our partner. 

What are the most common side effects of compounded semaglutide?

As with any medication, there are potential side effects to consider before deciding to take it. Compounded semaglutide shares the same active ingredient as Ozempic^® or Wegovy^®, so the potential side effects are the same. The most common include:

• Nausea and vomiting: These are the most frequent side effects, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose. They usually subside over time.
• Diarrhea or constipation: Changes in bowel habits can occur, but adjusting your diet and staying hydrated can help manage these issues.
• Stomach pain or discomfort: Some people experience mild abdominal pain, but it’s usually temporary.
• Headache: Mild headaches can be a side effect, but they often resolve on their own.
• Fatigue: Some individuals may feel more tired than usual, especially in the initial weeks of treatment.

What are some more severe effects and warnings associated with compounded semaglutide?

While rare, you should be aware of some serious effects and conditions that can be associated with semaglutide. Get immediate medical care if you have symptoms of any of these conditions.

• Pancreatitis: Symptoms of this condition include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Gallbladder problems: Semaglutide can increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder inflammation. Watch out for abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): Hypoglycemia is more common in people with diabetes who are also taking other diabetes medications. Look for symptoms like shakiness, sweating, hunger, nausea, headache, confusion, and an irregular or fast heartbeat.
• Kidney problems: In rare cases, semaglutide can cause kidney injury, particularly in those with pre-existing kidney conditions. Watch for changes in urination, swelling in the feet or ankles, skin changes, fatigue, nausea, lack of appetite, or pain in the sides, back, belly, or groin.
• Allergic reactions: Although uncommon, some people may experience allergic reactions to semaglutide, which can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the reaction but may include itchiness, swelling, dizziness, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or trouble breathing.
• Thyroid C-cell tumors: Semaglutide carries a warning for the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, a rare type of thyroid cancer. Symptoms include a lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, voice changes (like hoarseness), neck or throat pain, or persistent cough. Note: This connection has not been proven in humans.

How Noom can support your weight loss goals

Compounded semaglutide can be a valuable part of your weight loss plan, but you’ll feel your best if you combine it with healthy lifestyle changes and expert guidance. 

At Noom, we understand that weight loss is not just about medication. Our comprehensive program blends the science of GLP-1 medications with evidence-based behavioral and lifestyle coaching to create lasting change.

Combining medical expertise with Noom’s proven tools and psychological support gives you a powerful combination for achieving sustainable weight loss and a healthier lifestyle. Whether through branded medications or Noom GLP-1^Rx, Noom Med provides the comprehensive care and support you need to succeed.

*Compounded semaglutide available on the Noom platform is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy, or quality.

Note: Ozempic^® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.