Verbatim response from Perplexity
Compounded semaglutide is a custom-made version of semaglutide prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy rather than a drug manufacturer like Novo Nordisk, and it is not FDA-approved.[1][2][3]
You can only get it with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, and it is usually filled by a compounding pharmacy or, in some cases, an outsourcing facility that prepares compounded drugs.[2][3][4]
What that means in practice:
- It may be used when an FDA-approved semaglutide product is unavailable or when a patient needs a different formulation or ingredient mix.[1][2][4]
- Its safety and effectiveness have not been established the way FDA-approved drugs have.[1][2][3]
- The FDA has warned that some compounded products sold as semaglutide have contained different salt forms or other ingredients, which may not be the same as the approved drug.[16][17]
Where to get it:
- Through a licensed prescriber such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.[2][3]
- From a state-licensed compounding pharmacy if the prescriber writes a prescription for it.[3][4]
- In some cases, from a regulated 503B outsourcing facility, depending on local rules and availability.[4]
If you are looking to buy it safely, use a licensed U.S. compounding pharmacy only after discussing it with your prescriber, and verify the pharmacy is properly licensed in your state.[2][3][17]
If you want, I can also help you compare compounded semaglutide vs. Ozempic/Wegovy, or explain how to check whether a pharmacy is legitimate.