Patients Turn to Compounding Pharmacies as GLP-1 Shortages Worsen

In recent weeks, compounding pharmacies across the U.S. have experienced a notable uptick in activity as more patients seek urgently needed medications. Pharmacists report a significant increase in demand, mainly driven by ongoing shortages of key medications.

Compounding pharmacies are essential in the healthcare system, providing customized medications for patients with unique needs. For instance, they can create liquid formulations for patients who struggle with large pills or step in when major pharmaceutical manufacturers cannot supply necessary medications.

Currently, the heightened demand is primarily due to shortages of two popular medications: Tirzepatide and Semaglutide. These active ingredients have been listed as in short supply by the FDA since 2022. Known by their brand names—Zepbound, Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy—these GLP-1 medications are critical for diabetes management and weight loss.

Shortages Threaten Patient Care

The FDA maintains that most products containing these active ingredients are available, but this assertion has come under scrutiny. The agency’s shortage listing suggests that demand continues to outstrip supply. Many pharmacies report turning away patients with valid prescriptions due to unavailability. To address this issue, a telehealth company has launched an online map tracking GLP-1 shortages nationwide, highlighting the ongoing challenges patients face in accessing their medications.

Despite announcements of substantial investments by pharmaceutical companies to enhance production capacity, it remains uncertain when supply issues will be resolved. Shortages of lower doses of Ozempic are expected to persist until at least late 2024, putting patients—especially those with diabetes and chronic obesity—at risk.

Compounding Pharmacies Step In—But Not Without Risks

With the production of GLP-1 medications stalled at larger facilities, compounding pharmacies have become increasingly important. These smaller operations can create customized medications based on individual prescriptions. This method contrasts with mass production and allows for more tailored solutions to meet patient needs. Currently, around 30% of GLP-1 medications in the U.S. are sourced from compounding pharmacies.

However, this shift also presents challenges. Compounding pharmacies face difficulties meeting the soaring demand, with some experiencing delays of up to six weeks for raw material supplies. Moreover, these facilities are subject to less stringent regulations than large pharmaceutical companies, leading to concerns about potential contamination and unclear labeling. The FDA has reported instances where patients received doses far exceeding what was prescribed, resulting in hospitalizations due to confusion over medication strengths.

The Black Market Looms

In light of these issues, many patients are at risk of turning to counterfeit alternatives, which can pose significant dangers. The World Health Organization recently issued warnings about counterfeit Ozempic syringes found in several countries, including the U.S.

Experts caution that the use of counterfeit products could have severe consequences. Fake medications may contain contaminated substances or incorrect dosages, creating serious health risks for those who use them. Reports have emerged of patients developing adverse reactions after using suspected counterfeit drugs.

Looking ahead, analysts predict that demand for GLP-1 medications will continue to grow, with sales expected to reach approximately $50 billion next year. However, regulatory bodies do not anticipate swift resolutions to ongoing shortages. It appears that the gap left by larger manufacturers may continue to benefit compounding pharmacies as they adapt to meet increasing patient needs.

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