Weight Loss Drugs from Compounding Pharmacies: A Life-Saver or Risk?

With the rise of obesity and associated health issues in the U.S., millions have turned to new classes of weight loss drugs for solution. Individuals like Mark Mikhael, a pharmacist who successfully managed to shed 50 pounds and lower his cholesterol levels, credit these drugs for their results. Interestingly, Mikhael’s source is his company, Olympia Pharmaceuticals, where he creates his supply.

Copycat Weight Loss Drugs

Compounding pharmacies, such as Mikhael’s company in Orlando, are providing nearly two million people regular doses of semaglutide or tirzepatide. These are scientific names for popular weight loss drugs like Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Zepbound, produced by major pharmaceutical companies Novo Nordisk and Lilly.

This practice, however, hasn’t come without controversy. Big pharmaceutical firms strongly oppose these copycat drugs created by compounders and are working with legal teams to halt their production and distribution.

The FDA’s Stance on Compounded Drugs

Despite the backlash, the actions of these compounding pharmacies aren’t entirely illegal. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allows compounding pharmacies to produce these drugs when there’s a shortage. This was the case for the in-demand weight loss drugs, first reported in March and December 2022 for semaglutide and tirzepatide, respectively.

Moreover, these drugs have shown promising results against obesity and other diseases like heart, kidney, and liver diseases, along with drug addiction and Alzheimer’s disease. The cheaper alternatives provided by compounding pharmacies, thanks to these drugs’ patents, help cater to high demand.

Concerns Over Compounded Drugs

While compounded forms of weight-loss drugs cost significantly less, concerns persist about their safety. Eli Lilly’s spokesperson Kristiane Silva Bello aired her concerns over potential health risks from these drugs. However, industry insiders claim that these forms maintain similar compressive standards as commercial drugs.

However, differences in raw material used raise concerns over potential harmful immune reactions. There’s also worry about potential risks from a poorly made drug batch, which could harm people and severely impact the reputation of the compounding industry.

Compounded Drugs and the Healthcare System

The healthcare system heavily relies on compounding pharmacies, and these compounds could account for up to 30% of semaglutide sold in the U.S. These pharmacies assert that if the big companies want to eliminate competition, they must increase production.

A Patient’s Perspective

For regular users like Tabitha Ries, a single mother who managed to lose 35 pounds using semaglutide, the affordability of compounded drugs is a major advantage. The prospect of these drugs disappearing from the market could pose a shock to patients.

The Battle Continues

Meanwhile, pharmaceutical giants are placing pressure on compounding pharmacies, citing issues with product quality and patent infringement. However, the FDA-approved loophole for shortage drugs gives some defense to these compounders.

In a scenario where the FDA lifts semaglutide and tirzepatide from the shortage list, large compounders would have to instantly halt their sales. This, in turn, could land a devastating blow to both the businesses and the patients relying on these affordable alternatives.

Regardless of potential issues, the fact remains that navigating weight loss for millions of patients may become more challenging if these cost-effective alternatives plunge into oblivion.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here