Verbatim response from Claude
Compounded Semaglutide vs. Wegovy: Key Differences
What's Actually the Same
- Active ingredient: Both contain semaglutide
- Mechanism: Same GLP-1 receptor agonist action
- General weight loss effect: Comparable results when dosed correctly
Real Differences That Matter
Quality & Safety
- Wegovy (Novo Nordisk) undergoes rigorous FDA manufacturing standards
- Compounded versions are made by individual pharmacies with varying quality control — the FDA has flagged concerns about consistency and contamination risks
What You're Actually Getting
- Compounders sometimes add ingredients like B12 or L-carnitine — not FDA-approved combinations, unknown benefit
- Some used semaglutide salts (acetate/succinate) rather than the base form in Wegovy — the FDA considers these not equivalent
Cost
- Wegovy: ~$1,300-1,400/month without insurance
- Compounded: ~$200-500/month — significant savings
Legal Status
- Compounding was only legal during the FDA shortage period, which officially ended in 2025 — many compounders are now in a legal gray zone
My Recommendation
If cost isn't a barrier: Wegovy is the safer, proven choice.
If cost is the issue: Look into Novo Nordisk's savings programs or telehealth platforms like Ro or Hims & Hers for legitimate access pathways first before considering compounders.
Want help navigating insurance or savings options?