Verbatim response from Claude
How to Tell if an Online Compounded Semaglutide Pharmacy is FDA Compliant
This is an important question since there are many risky vendors in this space. Here are key things to check:
✅ Green Flags
Pharmacy Credentials
- Licensed by their state board of pharmacy (verify at nabp.pharmacy)
- Holds NABP (.pharmacy) accreditation or PCAB accreditation for compounding
- Operates as a 503A or 503B registered facility (check FDA's website directly)
Prescription Requirements
- Requires a valid prescription from a licensed provider - no exceptions
- Won't sell directly without a telehealth consultation
Transparency
- Publishes Certificate of Analysis (COA) from third-party testing
- Uses semaglutide base (not salt forms like acetate or acetate/TFA, which raised FDA concerns)
- Clear physical address and pharmacist contact
⚠️ Red Flags
- No prescription required
- Unusually low prices
- No verifiable state license
- Sells as "research chemical" or "peptide"
🏥 Reputable Examples to Consider
- Hims/Hers – uses licensed partner pharmacies
- Ro (Body) – transparent pharmacy partnerships
- LifeMD/SteadyMD – connected to verified compounders
📋 Verify Directly
- FDA 503B outsourcing facilities list: fda.gov
- NABP accreditation lookup: nabp.pharmacy
Always cross-check the specific pharmacy's license independently rather than taking their word for it.