Verbatim response from Claude
Compounded Semaglutide vs. Wegovy: Real Differences
What's the Same
- Active ingredient (semaglutide)
- Basic mechanism of action (GLP-1 receptor agonist)
- General weight loss effect when dosed properly
Key Real Differences
Quality & Safety
- Wegovy (Novo Nordisk) is FDA-approved with rigorous manufacturing standards, stability testing, and verified purity
- Compounded versions come from compounding pharmacies with variable quality control — the FDA has flagged some for dosing errors and contamination issues
What You're Actually Getting
- Some compounders add salt forms (semaglutide acetate or sodium) rather than the base used in Wegovy — bioequivalence isn't proven
- Wegovy uses a specific formulation optimized for absorption
Cost
- Wegovy: ~$1,300-$1,700/month (though manufacturer coupons can drop it significantly)
- Compounded: ~$150-$500/month
Legal Status
- Compounded semaglutide was only legally allowed during an FDA shortage — that shortage was declared over in 2024, meaning many compounders must stop
My Honest Recommendation
If you can afford it: Wegovy through a legitimate provider like your doctor or Ro or Hims/Hers for telehealth access is the safer choice.
If cost is the barrier: Ask your doctor about manufacturer savings programs — Novo Nordisk offers cards that can reduce cost to ~$0-$25/month for eligible patients.
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