When it comes to managing your health and weight, you may encounter both brand-name medications and compounded medications. While they may serve similar purposes, there are key differences between the two that can affect your treatment choices. Here’s what you need to know:
What Are Compounded Medications?
Compounded medications are custom-made formulations prepared by a licensed pharmacist based on a doctor’s prescription. These medications are tailored to meet specific needs when an FDA-approved drug may not be suitable. For instance, if a patient has allergies to certain ingredients in a brand-name medication, a compounded version can be created without those allergens.
How Do They Differ from Brand-Name Medications?
Brand-name medications are mass-produced by pharmaceutical companies and are approved by the FDA for safety and efficacy. Compounded medications, on the other hand, are not FDA-approved but are regulated at the pharmacy level to ensure they meet professional standards. While brand-name medications like Ozempic or Wegovy are widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management, compounded medications that contain the same active ingredients may provide similar benefits with adjustments that better fit an individual’s needs.
When Are Compounded Medications Used?
Compounded medications are often prescribed in situations where patients require a dosage or formulation that is not commercially available. They might be an option for patients with allergies, sensitivities, or difficulties swallowing pills. Compounding also allows for combining medications into one dose for easier administration. Another key reason for using compounded medications is when there is a shortage of the brand-name version. In these cases, compounding pharmacies can help ensure patients continue to receive the treatments they need.
Why Choose a Compounded Medication?
Patients might opt for a compounded medication because it offers more flexibility. If the dosage form, strength, or ingredients in a brand-name medication doesn’t work for you, compounding can provide a customized alternative. Additionally, compounded medications may be more cost-effective, especially if insurance does not cover a similar brand-name medication.
Which Treatment Option Is Right for You?
At OVYVO, we understand that every patient’s weight loss journey is unique, and choosing the right medication is a key part of that process. We prescribe both brand-name medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and compounded medications that are customized to meet individual needs and/or address shortages of commercially available FDA-approved drugs.
During your visit with us, we’ll take the time to assess your health history, goals, and any specific concerns, such as allergies, sensitivities, and even out-of-pocket costs. Together, we’ll determine which treatment option is most appropriate for your situation, ensuring you receive a solution that fits your lifestyle and supports your success.
Schedule an appointment today to discuss your treatment options and find the solution that’s right for you: Schedule Online or Call 1-888-WTLOSS1
Disclaimer: Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy for individual patients based on a valid prescription. These preparations are tailored to meet the unique needs of patients when commercially available medications do not suit their specific requirements or when there is a shortage of commercially available drugs. OVYVO Medical Weight Loss distributes compounded medications in accordance with state and federal regulations. Details about the pharmacy and the compounding process are available upon request. It is important to note that compounded medications are not reviewed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety or efficacy, and we make no claims regarding their safety or effectiveness for any particular condition. The safety and quality of compounded medications are regulated by state boards of pharmacy and other relevant authorities.