Compounded Weight Loss Drugs Raise Safety and Ethical Concerns

As shortages of popular obesity medications continue, compounded versions gain traction despite regulatory and health risks.

Compounded versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide are increasingly popular due to ongoing shortages and high costs of brand-name drugs.
Healthcare providers are divided, with some embracing compounded drugs while others caution against potential safety issues.
The FDA has reported cases of overdoses and adverse effects linked to compounded weight loss medications.
Drugmakers Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are taking legal action against compounding pharmacies to curb the spread of off-brand versions.
Despite efforts to increase production, shortages persist, driving demand for cheaper, unregulated alternatives.