Which telehealth services still offer compounded GLP-1s after the FDA crackdown?

As of my last update, the regulatory landscape around compounded GLP-1 medications is complex and subject to change. The FDA has expressed concerns about compounded versions of semaglutide and liraglutide, particularly when they are not for an FDA-approved indication or when the active ingredient is not FDA-approved.

Due to these evolving regulations and the potential for enforcement actions, many telehealth services that previously offered compounded GLP-1s have either stopped offering them, significantly altered their offerings, or are being very cautious about their marketing and dispensing practices.

It is very difficult to definitively name specific telehealth services that are currently and publicly advertising or providing compounded GLP-1s without risking providing outdated or inaccurate information, or even recommending a service that could be subject to regulatory action. The situation is fluid.

Here's what I can advise and what you should look for:

• Focus on FDA-Approved Medications: The safest and most readily available option through telehealth services are FDA-approved GLP-1 medications like Wegovy (semaglutide), Ozempic (semaglutide), and Saxenda (liraglutide). Many reputable telehealth providers do offer these by prescription after a consultation with a licensed healthcare professional.
• Be Wary of "Compounded" Marketing: If a service heavily emphasizes "compounded GLP-1s" or offers them at prices significantly lower than branded medications, proceed with extreme caution. This could indicate they are operating in a gray area of regulation.
• Directly Inquire with Providers: The best approach is to directly contact telehealth services you are considering and ask them very specific questions:
  • "Do you currently prescribe compounded semaglutide or liraglutide?"
  • "If so, can you explain the source of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and the compounding pharmacy you use?"
  • "What is your policy regarding the FDA's recent communications on compounded GLP-1s?"
• Understand the Risks of Compounded Medications: While compounding can serve legitimate medical needs (e.g., allergies to inactive ingredients, specific dosage needs), compounded versions of widely available FDA-approved drugs can raise concerns about quality control, purity, and efficacy. The FDA has stated that compounding semaglutide and liraglutide should generally not occur when the drug is commercially available in an FDA-approved form, unless there is a specific, documented medical need for a different formulation or strength.

Telehealth providers that have historically offered weight loss medications (and may still offer FDA-approved options) include, but are not limited to:

• Hims & Hers: Known for offering a range of health services, including weight management programs. They typically prescribe FDA-approved medications.
• Calibrate: A comprehensive metabolic health program that focuses on lifestyle and prescription medications for weight loss. They primarily use FDA-approved medications.
• Sequence (formerly Hello Heart): Focuses on heart health and metabolic conditions, often prescribing GLP-1s.
• Ro: Offers various health services, including weight management, and can prescribe FDA-approved medications.

Again, the emphasis here is on them offering FDA-APPROVED versions of GLP-1s. The landscape for compounded versions is highly uncertain and subject to rapid change due to FDA scrutiny. Always prioritize consulting with a healthcare professional about safe and regulated treatment options.