GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) are medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. You’ve probably heard of it under brand names like Ozempi​​c® and Wegovy® (semaglutide) or Monjouro and Zepbound (tirzepatide). But what’s the problem with GLP-1 compounds?

GLP-1 compounds contain the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs, but they have not been approved by the FDA. Although they tend to be much more affordable and easier to access than brand-name medications, they are not subject to the same rigorous safety standards as FDA-approved medications.

This means that it is extremely important to ensure that you are getting GLP-1 compounds from a reputable company like Hims & Hers, with a demonstrated commitment to safety and transparency.

Below, we’ll look at whether GLP-1 compound medications are safe, the benefits of using them, and how to make sure you’re getting the real deal.

What are GLP-1 compound drugs?

Let’s start by explaining what exactly compounded medications are.

According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the compounding process typically involves modifying or adding new ingredients to a drug or combining drugs to create a drug tailored to the needs of an individual patient.

This could include:

• Remove an allergen, such as a dye or other inactive ingredient

• Turning tablet medication into liquid medication for patients who cannot swallow

• Change the dose or dilute a medication based on a patient’s needs

One more reason to compose? Shortages.

If there is a shortage of an FDA-approved drug, pharmacies can step in and help fill the supply gap.

This is where GLP-1 compound medications come in.

Due to increased demand, there are currently shortages GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide, tirzepatidand liraglutide.

Compound Semaglutide uses the same active ingredient – ​​semaglutide – as Ozempic and Wegovy. And the compound tirzepatide uses the same active ingredient – ​​tirzepatide – as Mounjaro® and Zepbound®. (Learn more about Are diabetes medications safe and effective for weight loss?.)

You get the idea – the same goes for other GLP-1 compounds.

This article was originally published on PourHers.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.

More from MediaFeed

5 Simple Steps to Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss