FDA moves to stop compounding GLP-1 drugs

At Kompassionate Kare Clinic, we believe in transparency and patient education. As a trusted community clinic, we want to keep our clients informed about recent regulatory updates that may impact their care plans—specifically those involving GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound).

Due to recent FDA guidance, we will no longer be offering compounded GLP-1 medications to new clients. In this article, we’ll break down what this means, why it’s happening, and what alternative options are still available to support your wellness journey.


What Are GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Why Are They Popular?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications originally designed to help manage type 2 diabetes. They work by mimicking a hormone in your body that helps regulate blood sugar levels, insulin production, and appetite. Over the past few years, these medications have gained tremendous popularity not only for diabetes but also for their weight-loss benefits—even among patients without diabetes.

Commonly prescribed GLP-1 drugs include:

  • Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)

  • Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound)

With promising clinical results and celebrity endorsements, demand for these medications has skyrocketed.

 

Why Were Compounded Versions Being Used?

When FDA-approved versions of these medications became hard to find due to national shortages, compounding pharmacies stepped in to help fill the gap. These pharmacies legally produced custom versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide, making them available to patients who otherwise couldn’t access treatment.

For many clinics and patients, compounded GLP-1s became a cost-effective and accessible alternative. However, compounded medications are not identical to their FDA-approved counterparts and don’t go through the same rigorous testing for safety and efficacy. That’s why they are only allowed when certain conditions—like drug shortages—are met.


What Did the FDA Announce?

In March 2025, the FDA officially declared that the shortages of semaglutide and tirzepatide had been resolved. As a result, compounded versions of these medications are no longer permitted unless patients meet specific exemptions.

Key points from the FDA update:

  • Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound): Compounding must stop immediately.

  • Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy): Compounding must end by April 22, 2025.

This shift in regulation is intended to ensure that patients receive medications that have been approved by the FDA and meet strict quality standards. It also means that many compounding pharmacies will no longer be legally allowed to produce these versions.

 

What This Means for Our Patients

Because of these new guidelines, Kompassionate Kare Clinic is no longer offering compounded GLP-1 treatments to new clients. This doesn’t affect existing patients who are already being treated with GLP-1s through our clinic, but it does impact those who are considering starting these medications for the first time.

We understand this news may be frustrating for those looking into medical weight loss programs. However, we want to reassure our community that we are actively offering other effective, evidence-based options to support your weight and metabolic health.


What Are Your Alternatives?

The good news is that GLP-1 medications are not the only path to successful weight management. At Kompassionate Kare Clinic, we offer a wide range of tools and services to help you reach your health goals, including:

  • Personalized weight loss programs

  • FDA-approved alternative medications

  • Nutrition and fitness counseling

  • Hormonal and metabolic assessments

  • One-on-one wellness coaching

  • Behavioral and mental health support

We’re here to work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that’s safe, sustainable, and tailored to your lifestyle and goals.


Our Commitment to Safety and Compliance

Your safety has always been and will always be our top priority. As a nurse-led clinic deeply rooted in our community, we are committed to providing care that is both ethical and evidence-based. We strictly follow FDA regulations to ensure that our patients are never at risk due to non-compliant or unregulated treatments.

If you’re unsure about your current medication or want to explore new options, our care team is here to help guide you through your choices with honesty, compassion, and medical expertise.

Need More Information?

We encourage all current and prospective patients to contact us with any questions or concerns about this change. Our staff is happy to review your current care plan and walk you through your options.

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