Keep Up With GLP-1 Demand
There has been a near meteoric rise in the demand for glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications. What was once a medication strictly for diabetes management is now seen as an effective weight loss solution. GLP-1 medication can also help treat obesity which impacts nearly 1 in 3 American adults. Marketing and endorsement of GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide means pharmacies today are struggling to keep up with demand due to drug shortages. Despite these shortages, there is an opportunity for pharmacies to use compounding to create off-label alternatives. Compounding is a patient-centric approach to demand, customizing weight loss solutions for individual needs.
How GLP-1 helps with weight management
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists have been discovered as a compound with a range of health benefits, particularly weight loss. The receptor agonist mimics the natural hormones that regulate glucose metabolism and appetite. These peptides enhance insulin secretion, improving glycemic control. GLP-1 also delays gastric emptying and suppresses glucagon secretion which reduces glucose output. Another feature is the regulation of appetite and hunger cravings, leading to gradual weight loss. Scientists have discovered that the metabolic effects of GLP-1 are highly effective in weight loss. Many are prescribing the drug off-label for this purpose. There are popular brand-name versions of GLP-1 on the market, but the demand has far outpaced supply, leaving pharmacies to find innovative ways to support patients.
Can compounding fill the gap?
Pharmacists can use compounding to create off-label alternatives to help patients. Compounding is the process of creating a custom medication or solution in-house to meet the desired needs of patients. A compounding pharmacy has a deep understanding of medication and pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology. The team leverages this knowledge to create a substitute drug for a patient, combining ethically sourced raw materials. Compounding is also effective in addressing polypharmacy as pharmacists can combine multiple drugs into a single-use solution. For drugs like GLP-1 unavailable in the mass market, compounding can create a solution for patients. Compounding addresses commercial shortages and can adjust dosages beyond standard manufacturer options. Drugs are also customizable. Patients can get solutions without allergens or sensitivities and in alternative forms, which does wonders for medication adherence.
Pharmacies benefit too
Compounding sounds like an intensive endeavor. Pharmacies are tasked with creating alternatives that meet strict quality standards while meeting patient demand. Yet, there are benefits for pharmacies too. Compounding an off-brand option ensures patients who need GLP-1 can still receive treatment despite shortages. Customizing dosing and delivery forms builds trust with patients. Those who want to avoid injectables can still get GLP-1 in sublingual or transdermal applications. Compounding increases patient loyalty and encourages adherence. Pharmacies can become more diverse with service offerings and differentiate from competitors with compounding. Meeting demand with off-brand or custom alternatives attracts patients looking for trusted providers of personalized weight loss solutions. There is also increased trust from healthcare providers, as compounding pharmacies can create custom prescription solutions.
Best practices for GLP-1 compounding
Compounding is effective but pharmacies are encouraged to meet strict quality requirements and regulatory guidelines. Following USP general chapter <795> and <797> protocols for non-sterile and sterile compounding, for instance, ensures best practices. Pharmacies should go a step further with in-house testing, protocols, and quality standards. Although compounding encourages custom solutions, some pharmacies may consider batch production to meet demand. Follow all best practices for batch production and storage so patients receive high-quality solutions.
Meet the demand with compounding
GLP-1 is quickly becoming a part of weight loss treatment. Using the medication off-label has led to a surge in demand, severely impacting supply. Pharmacies can use compounding to supply off-brand alternatives to patients that are equally effective. The customizable nature of compounding increases adherence and patient trust. Staying ahead of quality requirements and regulatory changes ensures patients receive optimal care despite shortages. Invest in compounding to become a leader in personalized weight loss solution support.
