What the FDA’s Announcement Means for Compounded Semaglutide Users

Published on:
March 8, 2025

On February 21, 2025, the FDA announced that the semaglutide shortage is officially over. This means brand-name medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are back in full supply. But if you’ve been using compounded semaglutide, you’re probably wondering—what happens next?

It’s understandable to feel uncertain. With the shortage resolved, compounded versions of semaglutide could soon face restrictions or even be phased out entirely. Planning ahead is crucial to ensure your treatment isn’t disrupted. Here’s what you need to know and how to navigate the changes to stay on track with your health goals.

What the FDA’s Announcement Means for Compounded Semaglutide

The FDA recognizes that an abrupt cutoff could leave patients without options, so they’ve provided a grace period before compounded semaglutide is fully discontinued. Here’s what that timeline looks like:

  • For state-licensed pharmacies and physicians (Section 503A) → Compounded semaglutide can still be dispensed until April 22, 2025 (60 days from the announcement).
  • For FDA-registered outsourcing facilities (Section 503B) → These facilities can continue distributing semaglutide until May 22, 2025 (90 days from the announcement).

After these deadlines, compounded semaglutide may no longer be accessible, and you’ll need to switch to an FDA-approved version—which may come with higher costs depending on your insurance coverage.

What This Means for You as a Compounded Semaglutide User

If you’ve been using compounded semaglutide because of affordability, it’s time to start thinking about your next steps.

You have two main options:

  1. Secure a supply of compounded semaglutide while it’s still available.
  2. Prepare to switch to a brand-name medication like Ozempic or Wegovy.

Here’s how to approach both.

If You Want to Stick with Compounded Semaglutide for Now

If you’re not ready to switch just yet, you still have a few months to secure your supply. Here’s how to avoid treatment interruptions:

✔ Check with your compounding pharmacy → Ask how long they plan to continue offering semaglutide and if they anticipate any supply issues.

✔ Stock up while you can → See if your provider can prescribe a 3- to 6-month supply before the deadline.

✔ If your provider doesn’t prescribe in bulk, explore telehealth providers → Some telehealth platforms and out-of-state providers may still be able to prescribe larger quantities before the cutoff date.

✔ Store it correctly → Refrigerate at 36–46°F (2–8°C) to maintain potency and effectiveness.

✔ Verify pharmacy compliance → Make sure your pharmacy follows FDA regulations to ensure the medication you’re receiving is safe and reliable.

Once the April 22 / May 22 deadlines pass, compounded semaglutide may no longer be an option, so acting now is key.

If You’re Considering Switching to Brand-Name Semaglutide

If you plan to transition to Ozempic or Wegovy, it’s better to start the process early to avoid any gaps in treatment.

Why Consider Switching?

✔ FDA-approved quality – Brand-name versions follow strict safety and efficacy standards.
✔ Standardized dosing – You’ll know exactly what you’re getting, with consistent formulations.
✔ Insurance may help – Depending on your coverage, you might be able to reduce costs.

Potential Challenges

⚠ Higher costs – Without insurance, brand-name versions can be significantly more expensive than compounded options.
⚠ Limited supply in some areas – Even though the shortage is officially over, demand may still be high.
⚠ Insurance hurdles – Some plans require prior authorization from your provider before they’ll cover the medication.

Steps to Take Now

✔ Talk to your doctor about transitioning to Ozempic or Wegovy.
✔ Check your insurance plan to understand your coverage and potential costs.
✔ Compare pharmacy prices and explore discount programs if paying out of pocket.

Switching doesn’t have to be complicated, and having a plan in place now will save you stress later.

You're Not Alone—PeptideMD Is Here to Help

We understand that these changes can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. PeptideMD provides the tools and resources you need to manage your GLP-1 treatment with confidence.

At PeptideMD, we help GLP-1 users:
Access GLP-1 medications and understand their options
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Make informed health decisions with expert-backed resources

Your health journey doesn’t have to be disrupted—you just need a plan. We’re here to help you create that plan so you can stay in control of your treatment and keep progressing toward your goals.

Visit our homepage to sign up for early access and stay informed on the optimal ways to manage your GLP-1 treatment.

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