Compounded Semaglutide Shortage: Secure Your Supply Before FDA Deadline
Health Update for All Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Patients
For the past two years, the brand-name makers of semaglutide and tirzepatide (Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro) have struggled to keep up with overwhelming demand. Due to this shortage, the FDA permitted compounding pharmacies to manufacture and distribute these medications directly to physicians, providing patients with affordable access to compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide.
However, a major change is coming. The FDA recently announced that the national shortage of semaglutide and tirzepatide is over and has notified compounding pharmacies that they must stop manufacturing these medications by May 2025.
This has led to many questions from our patients:
What Happens When the FDA Ban on Compounded Semaglutide Takes Effect?
Once the FDA ban on compounded semaglutide takes effect in May 2025, compounding pharmacies will no longer be allowed to produce or distribute it. Patients will only be able to access brand-name versions like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro — medications that have historically been expensive and difficult to obtain due to demand.
If you rely on compounded semaglutide for weight loss or diabetes management, now is the time to secure your supply before the deadline.
I’m Nervous That Compounded Semaglutide May End. What Does This Mean for Me?
If you’ve been successfully using compounded semaglutide for medical weight loss or blood sugar management, this change could present a serious challenge.
Many patients are worried about:
- Cost – Brand-name versions can be significantly more expensive.
- Availability – Even though the FDA claims the shortage is over, patients still report difficulty finding Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro at local pharmacies.
- Continuity of Treatment – If you rely on compounded semaglutide, you may need to switch medications or find alternative treatments after May 2025.
Will They Stop Compounding Semaglutide?
Yes. Unless legal challenges overturn the FDA’s decision, compounding pharmacies will no longer be able to manufacture semaglutide after May 2025.
Will Compounded Semaglutide Be Available in 2025?
Only until the legal deadline in May 2025. After that, patients will need to switch to brand-name medications or explore other weight loss and diabetes management options.
Is Compounded Semaglutide as Effective as Ozempic?
Many patients have found compounded semaglutide to be just as effective as brand-name versions, particularly when prescribed by experienced medical professionals. However, after May 2025, this option will no longer be available.
Can Doctors Prescribe Compounded Semaglutide?
Right now, yes. Physicians can still prescribe compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide, but after May 2025, they will only be able to prescribe brand-name versions like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro.
What Should You Do Now?
Given the uncertainty and potential supply constraints as the deadline approaches, we strongly advise our patients to stock up now. Even if you have enough for the next few months, we recommend purchasing a six-month (or longer) supply before the end of March 2025.
Important Considerations:
- All purchases are final — prescription medications cannot be returned.
- Expiration dates are typically six months from the date of manufacture — potency is not guaranteed beyond this timeframe.
If you plan to continue treatment beyond April 2025, please contact our office as soon as possible to discuss your options.
Secure Your Supply of Compounded Semaglutide Before It’s Too Late
The FDA’s ruling will have a significant impact on patients who have relied on compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide for weight loss or diabetes management. If you want to avoid the high costs and potential shortages of brand-name medications, now is the time to plan ahead.
Call our office today by clicking here to discuss your options and ensure continued access to the treatment that works for you.
– Sincerely, Gustav J. Lo, MD
FAQ: Quick Answers to Your Biggest Questions
- Can I still get compounded semaglutide? Yes, but only until May 2025. After that, only brand-name medications will be available.
- What happens after the FDA ban? Compounding pharmacies must stop producing semaglutide. You’ll need a prescription for Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro.
- Will brand-name semaglutide be affordable? It depends. Insurance coverage varies, and some plans may not cover weight loss prescriptions. Out-of-pocket costs can exceed $1,000 per month.
- Should I stock up now? Yes. Supplies may run low before the ban takes effect. We strongly recommend securing a 6-month supply before the end of March.
- What are my weight loss options after semaglutide? We offer additional medical weight loss treatments that may be an alternative such as our B Fit Shot+ and NAD+.
Call us to learn more by clicking here! Call now to secure your semaglutide supply and discuss future options!
