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Weight Loss GLP-1 Compounded Tirzepatide
Weight Loss GLP-1 Compounded Tirzepatide

Compounded tirzepatide prescriptions online*

Plushcare may be able to prescribe compounded Tirzepatide. When there is a  FDA shortage of branded Mounjaro® and Zepbound®, among other GLP-1 medications, our physicians may prescribe compounded Tirzepatide to eligible patients as part of their weight loss journey.  When these medications are not on the FDA shortage list, even if it may be difficult to find some doses of the medication, PlushCare cannot prescribe compounded Tirzepatide. When this happens, we will work with our patients to find the best solution to continue their weight loss journey with our physicians. Book an appointment with one of our board-certified primary care doctors to discuss options for your weight loss journey, including brand name GLP-1 and compounded semaglutide if you cannot access brand name medications. 

Online weight loss consultations available Doctors are available to help navigate the changing status of tirzepatide and compounding. RX delivered right to your doorstep
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Compounded Tirzepatide cannot be prescribed when the the brand name versions of Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are not on the FDA Shortage List. Prescriptions for compounded tirzepatide, when available, may be prescribed as an alternative to commercially unavailable branded medications on the FDA shortage list. These compounded medications are prepared by our preferred state-licensed sterile compounding pharmacy partner which complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations. However, compounded tirzepatide, like all compounded drugs, is not FDA-approved and does not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing. Compounded tirzepatideprescriptions are limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, Washington D.C., WY. 

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If compounded tirzepatide is not available, what are my options?

Compounded tirzepatide is only available if their brand name equivalent medications are listed in the FDA shortage list. If the shortage has resolved, those doses of compounded tirzepatide may not be available through PlushCare but there may be other medications that can help you lose weight, depending on your needs. These include: 

 

  • For Weight Loss (GLP-1s): Wegovy® or Zepbound® pens (may be covered by certain insurance plans for weight loss) 
  • For Type 2 Diabetes (GLP-1s): Ozempic® or Mounjaro® pens (may be covered by certain insurance plans only for type 2 diabetes) 

 

Compounded Semaglutide:  

Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic ® and Wegovy®. If Ozempic® and Wegovy® are listed in the FDA shortage list, these doses of compounded semaglutide may be available as a means to help you with weight loss or treat your type 2 diabetes. 

  • $149/month for the 0.25 mg dose 
  • $299/month for all other doses (0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, 2.0 mg, 2.4 mg) 

 

Prescriptions for compounded semaglutide, when available, may be prescribed as an alternative to commercially unavailable branded medications on the FDA shortage list. These compounded medications are prepared by our preferred state-licensed sterile compounding pharmacy partner which complies with all federal and state laws and FDA regulations. However, compounded semaglutide, like all compounded drugs, is not FDA-approved and does not undergo FDA review for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing. Compounded semaglutide prescriptions are limited to residents in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, HI, IA, ID, IL, KS, MA, MD, ME, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WV, Washington D.C., WY. 

What is compounded tirzepatide?

Compounded tirzepatide consists of the same active ingredient found in the diabetes drug Mounjaro® and the weight loss drug Zepbound®. It works by mimicking natural hormones found in the body (GLP-1 and GIP) that help regulate blood sugar and cause you to feel full. (2) An independent lab also verified the authenticity and potency of compounded tirzepatide through our preferred pharmacy, giving you peace of mind whenever you take it. 

 

Compounded Tirzepatide fills a critical need for treatment when a medication is on a national shortage list. It is a custom-made medication using the same active ingredients in Zepbound® and Mounjaro® and combined with B12 and glycine.  

 

It is given in a vial with insulin syringes for injection. The doses are exactly the same as the doses of the retail prescriptions. Titration of this medication follows the same titration as the brand medications.  

 

Unlike Mounjaro® and Zepbound®, which come in injection pens, our compounded tirzepatide is provided in vials with syringes.  

How does tirzepatide work?

Tirzepatide works by activating receptors for glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (GIP) hormones. These hormones usually "tell" your body to release insulin, which lowers blood sugar and prevents the release of sugar-raising hormones. Tirzepatide also helps with weight loss by regulating appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. By mimicking these hormones, it helps your body effectively manage blood sugar levels and helps you lose weight. 

What is the cost?

The price of compounded tirzepatide prescribed through PlushCare's preferred pharmacy varies based on the vial and dosage prescribed. 

 

  • The 2.5mg and 5mg per week dose is priced at $399 monthly for 1 vial (2 mL).  

  • The 7.5mg and 10mg doses, are available for $599 for two vials (total 4 mL) monthly.  

  • The 12.5mg and 15mg doses, are available at $749 for three vials (total 6 mL) monthly.  


Please note that the pricing above is solely for the medication and does not include doctors' visits, labs, or our membership costs. Our virtual doctors will guide you on the correct dosage and offer precise directions for measuring and administering your prescription. 

How to get compounded tirzepatide when Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are in a commercial shortage: 3 easy steps.

If you're exploring compounded tirzepatide for diabetes or weight loss, we can help. We have partnered with our preferred compounding pharmacy to make high-quality diabetes and weight loss treatment affordable, accessible, and convenient.

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Step 1

Schedule a visit with an online primary care doctor to discuss compounded tirzepatide.

During your initial visit, you will connect with your doctor on your smart phone or computer. Your doctor will review your medical history, underlying medical conditions, family medical history, medications, prior methods of weight loss, and your health goals. Your doctor will order some labs to your preferred lab so that we can assess your underlying health and make sure that it is safe to take weight loss medications. 
How It Works Step 2
Step 2

Review your blood work with your doctor

Lab work is necessary; they'll send an order to your preferred lab. Once your results are in, you will book a second appointment where your doctor will review your results with you. Based on your lab results, your doctor will help you form a diet, exercise and medication treatment plan that is best for you. If you are interested in compounded medications, please let your doctor know so that they decide if this is an appropriate treatment and explain how to give the injections. Learn more about required labs for weight management. 
How It Works Step 3
Step 3

Get your compounded tirzepatide delivered, if prescribed.

Once your doctor determines if you meet criteria for weight loss treatment, they will discuss different treatment options, medication shortages, and costs. Compounded medications are a good option when brand medications are in shortage. This is a cash payment option only, not covered by insurance. If you decide that you would like to take a compounded medication, your card will be charged when the prescription is ordered. Please ensure your address is up to date in our system so your med can be shipped to your house in about a week. Your doctor will explain how to do the injections, and you will be sent additional information. If you have any questions about the injections, please email info@plushcare.com  
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Why see a PlushCare primary care doctor online to help you manage your weight and meet your health goals? 

PlushCare is a health care organization comprised mostly of primary care doctors. We are a convenient option for many patients to access quality healthcare from the best physicians from the comfort of their own home. Follow-ups are also convenient as it is easy to book a follow-up appointment with our online primary care doctors within a day or two. Our doctors are well trained in understanding metabolic health and weight loss as well as managing most of your underlying health conditions and helping you meet your health goals. While weight management is one of the areas we treat, we can help take care of much more of your medical needs! 

What are the pros and cons?

Compounded tirzepatide

Pros

Offers dual benefits for diabetes management and appetite regulation Reduces appetite and enhances insulin resistance May improve weight-related comorbidities such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and sleep apnea

Cons

  • Not available in every state 

  • Measured yourself with syringes and needles instead of coming in a pre-filled pen 

  • Not covered by insurance

Potential side effects and risks of compounded tirzepatide

Some common side effects include swelling, redness, and itching at the injection site. Other frequent complaints include tiredness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, diarrhea, or constipation.

 

Tirzepatide typically doesn't cause low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), but it can when combined with other medications, including diabetes medications.

When taking any new medication, be on the alert for any severe side effects, including kidney problems (changes in urine volume), upset stomach, vision changes (decreased or blurred vision), or severe side effects like signs of pancreas or gallbladder disease (persistent nausea or vomiting, severe abdominal pain).

Severe allergic reactions to compounded tirzepatide are rare. However, you should go to a hospital or seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, like rash, itching, or swelling (especially of the face, tongue/, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.  

Other potential concerns associated with tirzepatide:

  • Interactions with other diabetes medications: To avoid potential interactions, close monitoring is advised when using tirzepatide alongside other diabetes medications, such as sulfonylureas, SGLT-2 inhibitors, metformin, or insulin. Talk to your doctor if you take other diabetes medications that may need the dose adjusted.  
  • Pancreatitis risk: There is a potential risk of pancreatitis associated with tirzepatide use.  
  • Thyroid tumor risk: Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should avoid tirzepatide due to the risk of thyroid tumors.  
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Tirzepatide is contraindicated for those planning pregnancies within the next 3 months, pregnant individuals, breastfeeding mothers, or mothers who have delivered a baby within the last 6 months. 

Left untreated, diabetes and obesity pose grave health risks

Diabetes and obesity carry serious health risks if left untreated.5 Some common risks of untreated diabetes and obesity include high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, coronary artery disease, cancer, stroke, increased risk of mental illness, back and joint pain, and difficulty with daily functioning.6

Compounded tirzepatide holds the promise of helping you control your blood sugar and adhere to a healthy diet, promoting overall health and longevity. It's a step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

How to take compounded tirzepatide

Supplies

  • Medication:  Compounded tirzepatide vial  
  • Syringe and needle: Ensure proper size for subcutaneous injections 
  • Alcohol wipes: - To sterilize the injection site  
  • Sharps container: For safe disposal of needles and syringes 

Preparation

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.

2. Confirm the correct medication.  

3. Prepare the medication for injection:  

 

  • Turn the vial upright and clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab. 
  • Draw up a dose of the prescribed units with air.  
  • Insert the needle into the vial and inject air into the vial. 
  • While the needle is in the vial, turn it upside down.  
  • Draw out the prescribed units into the syringe. 
  • Turn the vial upright and remove the needle. 

Injection

  1. Choose the injection site: Subcutaneous injections are typically injected into the abdomen or optionally the upper/outer thigh area.  
  2. Sterilize the site: Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen area.  
  3. Skin pinch: Pinch a fold of skin between the thumb and forefinger.  
  4. Needle insertion: Insert the needle at a 90 degree angle. 
  5. Needle withdrawal: Withdraw the needle gently. 
  6. Dispose of sharps: Safely discard the used needle and syringe in a sharps container.  

 

For complete instructions on administering the medication, refer to the guide provided by our pharmacy partner. Once you get your prescription, your physician will provide detailed guidance on the weekly dosage. Treatment typically starts with the lowest effective dose. However, it is important to note that some doses of tirzepatide are not on the FDA shortage list and thus are not available for compounding through PlushCare at this time. 

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Why see a PlushCare primary care doctor online to help you manage your weight and meet your health goals?

PlushCare is a health care organization comprised mostly of primary care doctors. We are a convenient option for many patients to access quality healthcare from the best physicians from the comfort of their own home. Follow-ups are also convenient as it is easy to book a follow-up appointment with our online primary care doctors within a day or two. Our doctors are well trained in understanding metabolic health and weight loss as well as managing most of your underlying health conditions and helping you meet your health goals. While weight management is one of the areas we treat, we can help take care of much more of your medical needs! 

 

Compounded tirzepatide FAQs

What does it mean when a drug is compounded?

When tirzepatide is "compounded," it means that the pharmacy producing the medication differs from the one manufacturing the brand name drug. The compounding pharmacy mixes the ingredients to create the medication. Through our partnered compounding pharmacy, our tirzepatide is formulated to contain the exact molecular replica of the base found in branded tirzepatide, along with trace amounts of vitamin B12 and glycine. 

 

In other cases, ingredients may be tailored to meet an individual patient's needs. Patients may need compounded drugs due to unique health conditions or needs not met by off-the-shelf medications. In these cases, pharmacists customize the medication, adjusting ingredients to the patient's needs. 8


Compounded drugs can also help patients with allergies to certain commercial medication ingredients, with pharmacists removing harmful components. They also help when patients require specific drug dosages unavailable commercially. Additionally, compounded drugs serve as alternatives when certain medications are not available due to manufacturing issues or discontinuation. In the case of compounded tirzepatide, compounding directly addresses the widespread shortage of prescription medications to treat diabetes and obesity. 

Prior to usage, it is crucial to consult with your doctor about the possible advantages and risks. Our partnered compounding pharmacy upholds the highest standards of quality control. 

What should I know about the availability of compounded tirzepatide?

Compounded tirzepatide is only an option as an alternative to branded Mounjaro® and Zepbound® while they remain on the FDA drug shortages list. When these shortages are resolved, you can ask your doctor about Mounjaro® for type 2 diabetes, Zepbound® for weight loss, or explore other compounded medication alternatives like compounded semaglutide.

Does compounded tirzepatide come as a pen or a syringe and needle?

Typically, this medication comes in the form of a syringe and needle, unlike branded tirzepatide products that come in a pen. You’ll be responsible for filling the syringe yourself with the correct dose from the vial.

Is compounded tirzepatide effective?

Tirzepatide is safe when professionally compounded and with a trusted compounding pharmacy.  Tirzepatide is effective for managing type 2 diabetes.12 However, the quality of compounded tirzepatide depends on the compounding pharmacy, and ours strictly adheres to safety standards and has undergone thorough vetting.

Unlike FDA-approved medications like Mounjaro, there haven't been any studies on how well compounded tirzepatide works.13 The FDA acknowledges the critical role that compounded drugs play in healthcare.14 However, these medications are not subject to FDA regulation, which means there is no guarantee that drugs from compounding pharmacies, even those from reputable sources, are as advertised. 

Because of this, its effectiveness can vary depending on the tirzepatide compounding pharmacy and how it's made. That’s why it’s critical to see a trusted doctor who works with a carefully vetted pharmacy with the ability to safely and effectively compound tirzepatide. We partner with a trusted compounding pharmacy that strictly adheres to federal and state laws as well as FDA regulations. The compounded tirzepatide produced by our preferred pharmacy is an exact molecular replica of the tirzepatide base, ensuring authenticity and potency. Additionally, an external lab verifies the quality, providing you with peace of mind.

Can I use insurance for compounded tirzepatide?

Compounded tirzepatide is solely accessible as a self-payment choice and is not covered by insurance.

Why is tirzepatide compounded with B12?

Vitamin B12 is crucial for your health, supporting many functions.15 It's found in foods like eggs, meat, fish, poultry, and dairy and is available as a supplement and by prescription. It boosts energy production and metabolism and helps make red blood cells for oxygen transport, increasing energy and alertness. 

Obese patients with higher BMIs are at higher risk for having vitamin B12 deficiency and weight loss may potentially worsen the B12 deficiency. Combining tirzepatide with B12 can help offset these potential vitamin B12 deficiencies.

How to choose a safe, reputable pharmacy for compounded tirzepatide

With approximately 7,500 licensed compounding pharmacies in the U.S., according to the American Pharmacists Association, individuals can get compounded medications catered to their unique needs.4

While drug compounding is both legal and safe when done by reputable pharmacies, there are some risks to getting compounded drugs from unreliable sources. We care deeply about the health and safety of our patients, which is why our team has worked meticulously with our compounding pharmacy to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety.

Our preferred pharmacy partner(s) strictly adhere to federal and state laws and FDA regulations. This ensures that their tirzepatide is an exact molecular replica of the base formula. Rest assured, compounded tirzepatide through our preferred pharmacy meets rigorous safety standards, providing peace of mind for every dose.

Compounded tirzepatide pricing details

Compounded tirzepatide prices vary: 1 vial (2.5mg/wk, 5mg/wk) costs $399/mo, 2 vials (7.5mg/wk, 10mg/wk) $599/mo, 3 vials (12.5mg/wk, 15mg/wk) $749/mo. Excludes physician visits, labwork, or membership.

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Paying with insurance

$19.99

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Copay

Visit price with insurance

Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less! We accept these insurance plans and many more:
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Paying without insurance

$19.99

First month free

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$129

Visit price without insurance

Initial visits are $129.

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*Compounded tirzepatide is not covered by insurance, and the out-of-pocket cost for the medication depends on the dose of the medication. The price varies based on the vial and dosage prescribed. If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.

Sources:

PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.

  1. New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) - "N Engl J Med. 2023 Jun 29; 384(26): 2491–2492." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038. 

  2. PubMed Central (PMC) - "J Nephrol Ther. 2021 Oct 26;11(5):517-525." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9438179/. 

  3. The BMJ - "Long term health consequences of obesity." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj.q28. 

  4. American Pharmacists Association (APhA) - "Compounding FAQs." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.pharmacist.com/Practice/Patient-Care-Services/Compounding/Compounding-FAQs. 

  5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - "How Overweight and Obesity Impacts Your Health." Accessed on June 18, 2024, at https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/food-activity/overweight-obesity-impacts-health.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/effects/index.html

  6. CDC - "Consequences of Obesity." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/basics/consequences.html. 

  7. Drugs.com - "Tirzepatide User Reviews for Diabetes, Type 2." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.drugs.com/comments/tirzepatide/. 

  8. National Academies Press (NAP) - "Drug Compounding: An Interactive Learning Experience." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://nap.nationalacademies.org/resource/25791/interactive/. 

  9. Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) - "Pharmacy Compounding Accreditation." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.achc.org/pcab/. 

  10. Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) - "ACPE - Continuing Pharmacy Education." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.acpe-accredit.org/. 

  11. PubMed Central (PMC) - "BMJ Open. 2020; 10(11): e038062." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10231274/. 

  12. PMC - "Indian J Ophthalmol. 2020; 68(12): 2871–2872." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10088547/. 

  13. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - "Saxenda (Liraglutide) Injection, for Subcutaneous Use." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf. 

  14. FDA - "Drug Compounding and Drug Shortages." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.fda.gov/drugs/human-drug-compounding/drug-compounding-and-drug-shortages. 

  15. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health - "Vitamin B12." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-b12/. 

  16. Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) - "Vitamin B12 - Health Professional Fact Sheet." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/. 

  17. PubMed - "Int J Clin Exp Pathol. 2021; 14(8): 1079–1090." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36240684/. 

  18. ODS - "Vitamin B12 - Health Professional Fact Sheet." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/. 

  19. Mounjaro Lilly - "How to Use Mounjaro." Accessed on April 3, 2024, at https://mounjaro.lilly.com/how-to-use-mounjaro. 



PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.