Compounded tirzepatide: online prescriptions available

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 compounded 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 through PlushCare varies based on the vial and dosage prescribed. 

• The lowest dose is for 5mg per weekly dose and, 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.  

• As the 2.5 mg dose, which is the starting dose for tirzepatide, is currently not listed on the FDA shortage list, it is not available at this time through PlushCare 

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. 

When taking any new medication, be on the alert for any severe side effects, including kidney problems (changes in urine volume), stomach upset, 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:

• Birth control interactions: Tirzepatide may reduce the effectiveness of oral hormonal birth control, such as desogestrel, ethinyl estradiol, and levonorgestrel, so it is recommended to switch to non-oral contraceptives before starting 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.

Supplies

1. Medication:  Compounded tirzepatide vial  

2. Syringe and needle: Ensure proper size for subcutaneous injections 

3. Alcohol wipes: - To sterilize the injection site  

4. 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:  

   1. Turn the vial upright and clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab. 

   2. Draw up a dose of the prescribed units with air.  

   3. Insert the needle into the vial and inject air into the vial. 

   4. While the needle is in the vial, turn it upside down.  

   5. Draw out the prescribed units into the syringe. 

   6. 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 the lowest dose of tirzepatide (2.5 mg once a week) is not on the FDA shortage list and thus is not available for compounding through PlushCare at this time.