Switching from a Compounded to a Brand-Name GLP-1? Here’s How to Do It in 5 Steps
Key takeaways:
Compounded glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications gained popularity during shortages of FDA-approved brand-name GLP-1s. Now that the shortages have resolved, compounded GLP-1s are largely being phased out.
If you want to continue GLP-1 therapy, you’ll likely need to switch to a brand-name GLP-1. Examples of these include semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound).
Start by working with your healthcare team on a transition plan. Take time to check your insurance coverage, explore savings programs, and plan ahead at the pharmacy for a smoother transition.
Table of contents
Until recently, several glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) injections were in shortage. During this time, compounded versions became a more accessible option. Now, brand-name GLP-1 injections of semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) are available again. And with compounded GLP-1s largely being phased out, many people will need to switch back.
Switching from a compounded to a brand-name GLP-1 may feel like a big change. But it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With support of your healthcare team, a clear transition plan, and a few cost-saving tools, you can make the process smoother, safer, and more affordable.
What are compounded GLP-1s?
Compounded GLP-1s are custom-made versions of FDA-approved medications — such as Ozempic or Zepbound — from compounding pharmacies. But unlike brand-name GLP-1s, they aren’t FDA approved. That means they haven’t gone through the same testing for safety, effectiveness, or quality. They can also vary in strength, delivery method, and ingredients.
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Compounded GLP-1s helped people continue treatment while brand-name GLP-1 injections were in shortage. But they’re not meant to be a long-term solution when FDA-approved options are available. And with the shortages resolved, the FDA has issued a timeline for phasing compounded GLP-1s out.
If you’ve been using a compounded GLP-1, this means you’ll likely need to switch to a brand-name GLP-1. Here are five steps to follow for a smoother transition.
1. Talk to your healthcare team
Switching to a brand-name GLP-1 means starting a new prescription. So, the first step is having a conversation with your healthcare team. They’ll help you create a personalized transition plan, taking into account your current regimen, health history, and other factors.
Different brand-name GLP-1s offer unique benefits beyond blood sugar (glucose) or weight management. So your prescriber can help match you with the option that best fits your needs:
Ozempic: Approved for Type 2 diabetes and to lower the risk of serious cardiovascular and kidney-related problems in certain people
Wegovy: Approved for weight loss and to lower the risk of serious cardiovascular problems if you have heart disease and a larger body size
Mounjaro: Approved for Type 2 diabetes
Zepbound: Approved for weight loss and moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
Be prepared to share details about your current compounded GLP-1 prescription. This includes your recent dose, frequency, and delivery method. Your prescriber can select the safest and most effective starting point with a branded product.
How to save: Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications like Ozempic don’t need to break the bank. Explore ways to save on your prescription with this GLP-1 savings guide.
GLP-1 comparison: Ozempic (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepatide) are two medications that work in a similar way. Here’s how GLP-1 medications compare.
What to expect: Do GLP-1 medications make you feel nauseated? Learn about potential GLP-1 side effects and how to manage them.
2. Understand dosage differences
Brand-name GLP-1s come in fixed FDA-approved doses and delivery methods, such as prefilled injection pens, vials, or tablets (like Rybelsus). This isn’t necessarily the case for compounded GLP-1s. They can also come in nonstandard doses or alternative dosage forms, such as sublingual (under the tongue) tablets or drops.
Compounded GLP-1s may not match a branded option exactly. So your prescriber will work with you to find the closest equivalent. This may involve starting at a lower dose and gradually increasing it, especially if you previously experienced side effects.
3. Check insurance coverage and explore savings options
Brand-name GLP-1s may cost more than compounded GLP-1s. That’s why it’s a good idea to check your insurance plan’s coverage and preferred products list (formulary) beforehand. Some plans require a prior authorization, which your prescriber may need to submit before coverage is approved.
If your copay is too high, your GLP-1 isn’t covered, or you’re uninsured, we detail several options to help make your prescription more affordable in the table below.
Savings opportunity* | Details |
|---|---|
• Ozempic: As low as $25 for a 1-, 2-, or 3-month supply • Wegovy: As low as $0 if Wegovy is covered, or $499 for a 1-month supply if you’re uninsured or paying cash • Mounjaro: As low as $25 for a 1- or 3-month supply • Zepbound: As low as $25 per month if Zepbound is covered, or $650 for a 1-month supply if it’s not covered | |
Patient assistance programs | Get Ozempic at no charge if you qualify for a patient assistance program through the manufacturer. |
Direct pharmacy programs | • Wegovy: Available for $499 per month through NovoCare Pharmacy • Zepbound: Lower-cost vials are available for $349 (2.5 mg) or $499 (5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg) per month through LillyDirect |
Savings with GoodRx | Save an average of $250 on Ozempic, $200 on Mounjaro, and $210 on Zepbound by using GoodRx. |
*Check with your healthcare team if you have questions about eligibility.
4. Plan ahead at the pharmacy
Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) and semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) injections were previously in shortage. The supply is beginning to stabilize, but certain doses may still be limited or sell out quickly — especially in high-demand areas.
That’s why it’s a good idea to be proactive when it comes to getting your prescription filled. Here are a few helpful steps:
Request refills at least a week in advance to avoid last-minute delays.
Call around to local pharmacies if your usual location is out of stock.
If you’re paying cash, consider LillyDirect or NovoCare Pharmacy, which may have more consistent availability. These services also deliver the medication directly to your home.
5. Know what to expect when you switch
Switching from a compounded to a brand-name GLP-1 may come with a short adjustment period. Branded products may have different inactive ingredients, absorption rates, or delivery methods compared to your compounded medication.
It’s a good idea to track any changes in side effects, effectiveness, or tolerability after switching. GLP-1 side effects to monitor for include:
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea or constipation
Fatigue
Decreased appetite
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
If any side effects are persistent or concerning to you, contact your prescriber. They can give you recommendations for how to manage them. If needed, they may decide to adjust your dose.
The bottom line
Switching from a compounded glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) to a brand-name option may seem overwhelming. But it’s manageable with the right support. Work with your healthcare team to create a plan that works for you. It’s also a good idea to explore all available savings programs to help keep your medication affordable.
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References
Lilly. (n.d.). Authentic Zepbound shipped directly to you.
NovoCare. (n.d.). Novocare pharmacy.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025). FDA clarifies policies for compounders as national GLP-1 supply begins to stabilize.
Wegovy. (n.d.). Ways to save on Wegovy.
