The Evolution of Obesity Treatment: A Focus on Safety and Personalization
The past decade has been an exciting time for the field of obesity treatment. With the development of new medications, many patients have found effective solutions that support long-term weight management and contribute to improved overall health. It’s been incredibly rewarding to witness the positive changes in my patients' lives—stories of increased energy, reduced joint pain, and an overall sense of relief as the mental burden of constant food-related thoughts diminishes.
However, with the growing popularity of these medications, we’ve also seen a significant increase in demand that has led to shortages of certain products. This has created an opportunity for compounded pharmacies to offer alternative versions of medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, which are molecularly similar to their branded counterparts. While some patients are drawn to these compounded products because of their lower price and availability, it’s important to approach them with caution.
At LBMD & Associates, we always seek innovative ways to personalize care and help our patients achieve their health goals. We strive to offer the most effective and safest treatment options available. While we understand the financial challenges that can come with branded medications, there are several serious concerns regarding the use of compounded weight loss treatments.
Here are some of the reasons for our cautious approach to compounded GLP-1 medications:
1. Risk of Contamination
Compounded medications have historically been linked to contamination issues, including the presence of harmful substances such as mold or bacteria, which can pose significant health risks.
2. Inconsistent Dosages
Studies have found that some compounded medications may contain more or less of the active ingredient than what is indicated on the label, potentially leading to ineffective or unsafe treatment.
3. Lack of FDA Oversight
Unlike FDA-approved medications, compounded drugs are not subject to the same rigorous testing for safety, quality, or effectiveness. This lack of oversight also means there are no legal protections for healthcare providers if a patient experiences harm from a compounded drug.
For these reasons, we believe that compounded medications should only be considered in very specific situations—such as when a patient has unique needs that cannot be met by commercially available, FDA-approved options (for example, if a patient requires a medication without a certain ingredient due to allergy concerns, or in a form that is not commercially available).
Looking ahead, we are hopeful that access to FDA-approved GLP-1 medications will improve, making them more affordable and accessible for all patients who could benefit from them. These medications are proven to help manage weight and reduce the risk of several related health conditions, such as prediabetes, reflux, fatty liver disease, and obstructive sleep apnea.
In the meantime, we remain dedicated to helping our patients find safe, effective, and affordable treatment options. Rest assured, we will always prioritize your health and safety, ensuring that your treatment plan is both effective and tailored to your individual needs.