CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - With the arrival of the new year, many are making resolutions to lose weight, leading to an increase in the use of weight loss medications. However, the escalating prices and the increasing interest in compounded alternatives have brought about important concerns.
For numerous individuals, the journey towards achieving weight loss objectives can often be a gradual, challenging, and exasperating experience.
Medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro are increasingly popular and are often associated with successful weight loss outcomes. Although these drugs are known for their effectiveness, they also carry hefty price tags, limited insurance support, and rising worries about how accessible they are. As a result, some individuals are turning to compounded versions of these medications as a more budget-friendly option.
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They assist in weight loss by managing blood sugar levels and curbing appetite. Their efficacy has garnered significant interest, as research indicates that they can result in a weight reduction of 15% to 25% of an individual's total body weight.
Patients obtain a prescription from their physician and are given precisely measured doses in auto-injectors, akin to EpiPens, which deliver critical doses of epinephrine for individuals experiencing severe allergic reactions.
Dr. Marc-André Cornier, a specialist in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, discusses the attraction.
"These medications represent a revolutionary and transformative option for individuals dealing with obesity," he notes. Nevertheless, he warns that the high price tag of these treatments can be a significant barrier. "They come with a hefty cost, and although we're beginning to observe some insurance plans covering them, it's still insufficient for a large number of people," Cornier explains.
The emergence and potential dangers of compounded alternatives
The high costs of brand-name weight loss medications have resulted in a significant increase in the popularity of compounded alternatives to Ozempic and Mounjaro.
These compounded medications are frequently offered at medical spas and promoted as cost-effective options. Nevertheless, these drugs lack FDA approval, which raises apprehensions among healthcare providers.
Chris Diorio, a board-certified expert in bariatric and emergency medicine at Lowcountry med-spa Physicians Plan, cautions about the risks associated with self-administering compounded medications.
"You can't assume that a person can simply purchase a vial of solution, prepare it, and administer it on their own without appropriate medical supervision. It's risky," he states.
Cornier points out that compounded medications carry additional risks, including the chance that they may lack any active ingredients entirely.
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"According to Cornier, there have been inquiries revealing that certain compounded medications contained no active ingredients, which amounts to outright fraud."
Although compounded weight loss medications might appear to be a cost-effective choice, they pose considerable risks. The primary concern is the absence of FDA approval and the ambiguity surrounding the active components used in these formulations.
“Overdosing on these medications can lead to serious illness. It may impede your stomach's ability to empty, resulting in intense nausea and vomiting,” warns Cornier.
According to experts, these risks are especially concerning because numerous patients are resorting to these medications out of desperation, often without a clear understanding of the possible hazards involved. For example, some individuals skip consulting healthcare providers and take it upon themselves to measure their doses with syringes and vials of the drug, proceeding to administer the injections on their own.
According to doctors, this raises the likelihood of misuse and negative side effects.
Tales of achievement and the allure of more affordable alternatives
Even with the potential dangers involved, certain individuals have managed to effectively utilize compounded medications for losing weight.
Branneisha Cooper, a weight loss influencer who shed 80 pounds in two years, attributes her success to medications such as Mounjaro, which played a crucial role in reaching her health objectives. She highlights that these treatments not only aided her in losing weight but also significantly enhanced her overall well-being.
“My test results are fantastic! My blood pressure is within the normal range, and my blood work came back excellent,” she remarks. “I feel great and am thrilled with how everything turned out.”
Cooper emphasizes that she relies on FDA-approved Mounjaro rather than a compounded alternative. She recognizes that numerous individuals opt for compounded medications due to their insurance not covering the brand-name options.
"She advises, 'If you decide to opt for a compounded option, ensure that you conduct thorough research and obtain it exclusively from a trustworthy pharmacy.'"
The increasing demand for compounded weight loss medications has sparked differing views among healthcare professionals.
Cornier is of the opinion that the potential drawbacks surpass the possible advantages.
"I believe there are simply too many uncertainties involved, yet it reveals a great deal about how far individuals are prepared to go, even risking their own lives, for the sake of losing weight. This highlights the significance of weight loss to many people... however, we do not endorse it, under any circumstances," he states.
Conversely, Diorio proposes that there are methods to guarantee that compounded medications can be just as safe as their branded equivalents.
“如果你从互联网获取信息，而对提供者、医生或药房都不熟悉，那么你实际上是在冒险，而这种风险可不是小事，”迪奥里奥表示。“因此，我建议你从一个可靠的提供者和你信任的医生那里获取信息，并且最好能够进行面对面的交流。此外，我还建议你索要分析证书。每种化学物质都有一个分析证书，如果他们不能开具或提供给你，那么这很可能不是一种合法的药物。”
If you're thinking about trying weight loss medications, healthcare experts emphasize the importance of collaborating with your doctor to identify the most suitable choice for your needs.
Regardless of whether you opt for a brand-name medication or a compounded option, experts emphasize that keeping clear communication with your physician is essential.
Both Cornier and Diorio highlight the significance of seeking advice from a healthcare expert to guarantee that you are making knowledgeable and safe choices about your well-being.
As you begin your weight loss journey in 2025, keep in mind that prioritizing safety and your overall well-being is essential.
