Semaglutide
Also sold as Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus
Regulatory
Legal Status in 2026
FDA shortage resolved February 21, 2025; enforcement discretion for compounding has ended.
Federal law restricts compounding of this compound. For compounds whose FDA-declared shortage has resolved, Section 503B bulk compounding rights have ended; Section 503A compounding remains possible only with a documented patient-specific clinical justification (a verified allergy to an inactive ingredient, or a strength the manufacturer does not make — not cost or convenience). For compounds affirmatively excluded by the FDA's Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee, compounding is not permitted under the bulk-substance list. The FDA-approved product (where one exists) is the appropriate default.
Off the FDA drug shortage list. Verified June 1, 2026 via the openFDA drug shortage database.
FDA declared the shortage resolved on February 21, 2025. Enforcement discretion for compounding ended April 22, 2025 under Section 503A and May 22, 2025 under Section 503B. FDA announcement.
About
About Semaglutide
A synthetic glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide mimics the incretin hormone GLP-1 to stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppress glucagon release, and slow gastric emptying. The compound also acts on hypothalamic receptors to reduce appetite and food intake. Primary clinical applications include the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic weight management in individuals with obesity or overweight with weight-related comorbidities.
Science
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide binds to and activates the GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), a GPCR expressed in the pancreas, brain, gut, heart, and kidneys. In the pancreas, GLP-1R activation stimulates glucose-dependent insulin secretion and suppresses glucagon. In the brain (hypothalamus and brainstem), it reduces appetite and increases satiety. Gastric emptying is slowed, contributing to reduced caloric intake. The net effect is significant weight loss and improved glycemic control.
Dosing
Typical Protocol
Week 1–4: 0.25 mg subcutaneously once weekly. Week 5–8: 0.5 mg once weekly. Week 9–12: 1.0 mg once weekly. Maintenance: 1.0–2.4 mg once weekly (titrate based on tolerability and response). Contraindications include personal/family history of MEN2, medullary thyroid carcinoma, or pancreatitis.
⚠ Protocol information is for educational purposes only. Dosing must be determined by a licensed physician based on individual health status and goals.
Evidence
Evidence Tier
Supported by the clinical trial data required for FDA approval, representing the highest evidence bar. Safety and efficacy have been established in multiple phases of human clinical trials.
Availability
Provider availability
Compounded semaglutide is no longer legal to sell. Compounding was allowed only during the FDA shortage, and the shortage ended in early 2025. The legal versions today are Ozempic and Wegovy. We don't list sellers on this page yet because we can't confirm which pharmacies dispense only the branded product.
Compound comparisons
Compare Semaglutide
Semaglutide set against other compounds people weigh it against.
This page evaluates compliance signals, not clinical outcomes. Consult a licensed physician before starting any therapy, medication, or treatment. Vial does not provide medical advice.