Important Safety Information | Compounded Semaglutide & Tirzepatide | Ondra Health
Ondra Health · Clinical Safety

Important Safety Information

This page contains full safety information for compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide prescribed through Ondra Health. Read before starting treatment.

Regulatory Status

Compounded medications are not FDA-approved

Compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide dispensed through Ondra Health are not FDA-approved finished drug products. The FDA has not evaluated these compounded preparations for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality.

Compounded semaglutide ≠ Ozempic®/Wegovy®. Compounded tirzepatide ≠ Mounjaro®/Zepbound®. Clinical trial data from the STEP 1 (semaglutide) and SURMOUNT-1 (tirzepatide) trials reflects FDA-approved brand-name products — not compounded versions. Individual results vary.

Compounded medications are permitted under Section 503A of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act when prescribed by a licensed provider for an individual patient with documented clinical justification. All prescriptions through Ondra Health are issued by independent licensed providers at Wasef Health, PC at their sole clinical discretion.

Current regulatory status (2026)

The FDA declared the semaglutide shortage resolved on February 21, 2025, and the tirzepatide shortage resolved on December 19, 2024. Enforcement discretion for 503A pharmacies compounding semaglutide ended April 22, 2025; for tirzepatide, February 18, 2025.

Compounded GLP-1 medications in 2026 require documented individual clinical justification — not simply cost preference or personal preference for compounded medication. Your prescribing provider at Wasef Health, PC is responsible for this determination.

Boxed Warning — Thyroid C-Cell Tumors

WARNING — Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
This applies to compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide

In rodent studies, semaglutide and tirzepatide caused dose-dependent and duration-dependent thyroid C-cell tumors at clinically relevant exposures. It is unknown whether these findings translate to humans.

Compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide are contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or in patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).

Patients should be counseled about the potential risk of MTC and the symptoms of thyroid tumors (e.g., a mass in the neck, dysphagia, dyspnea, persistent hoarseness). Routine serum calcitonin monitoring or thyroid ultrasound has not been established to have clinical benefit in patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists and is not recommended. If MTC is suspected, treatment should be discontinued and the patient should be evaluated appropriately.

Contraindications

Do not use if any of the following apply.

Personal or family history of MTC
Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is an absolute contraindication. Inform your provider of any personal or family history of thyroid cancer.
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2
MEN 2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2) is an absolute contraindication for all GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Known hypersensitivity
Do not use if you have had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis, angioedema) to semaglutide, tirzepatide, or any component of the formulation including any additives.
Pregnancy
GLP-1 medications should not be used during pregnancy. Based on animal studies, there may be potential risks to the unborn baby. Discontinue at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.

Serious Warnings & Precautions

Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis, including fatal and non-fatal hemorrhagic or necrotizing pancreatitis, has been reported with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Discontinue promptly if suspected. Do not restart if confirmed.

Symptoms to watch for: Persistent severe abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back, which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting. Contact your provider or seek emergency care immediately if these occur.

Use with caution in patients with a history of pancreatitis. Inform your Wasef Health provider of any history of pancreatitis before starting treatment.

Hypoglycemia — especially with insulin or sulfonylureas

Risk of hypoglycemia increases when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glyburide). Dose reduction of those medications may be required.

Symptoms: Dizziness, confusion, sweating, shakiness. Severe cases can cause loss of consciousness. Disclose all diabetes medications to your provider.

Diabetic retinopathy complications (semaglutide)

Worsening of diabetic retinopathy has been observed in semaglutide trials, particularly with rapid glucose improvement. Monitor patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy.

Acute gallbladder disease

GLP-1 medications are associated with increased risk of gallstones and gallbladder inflammation. Rapid weight loss is also an independent risk factor. Discontinue and seek evaluation if suspected.

Heart rate increase

GLP-1 receptor agonists may increase resting heart rate. Monitor pulse periodically and discuss with your provider if you have known cardiac conditions.

Acute kidney injury

Acute kidney injury has been reported. GI side effects can cause dehydration, worsening kidney function. Ensure adequate hydration throughout treatment, especially during dose escalation.

Suicidal ideation & behavior

If you experience depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual mood changes, discontinue and contact your provider immediately. In a mental health emergency, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest emergency room.

Common Side Effects

The following side effects are common and typically occur during the first weeks of treatment or following dose increases. They generally improve as the body adjusts. Contact your provider if they are severe, persistent, or affect your ability to eat, drink, or function normally.

Very Common Gastrointestinal
  • Nausea — most common, especially early
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain or discomfort
  • Bloating / flatulence
  • Reduced appetite — expected effect, not a side effect per se
  • Heartburn / acid reflux
  • Belching

Eating smaller, lower-fat meals and avoiding lying down after eating can help reduce GI symptoms.

Common General
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Hair thinning — often related to rapid weight loss and inadequate protein intake, not a direct drug effect
  • Decreased energy — usually temporary
  • Dry mouth
  • Taste changes
  • Muscle loss — risk is significantly reduced with adequate protein intake (1.2–1.6g/kg/day)
Injection site reactions

Mild injection site reactions are common and include redness, bruising, itching, or mild swelling at the injection site. These typically resolve within a few days. Rotating injection sites (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm) with each dose reduces this risk.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe injection site pain, significant swelling, warmth, or signs of infection (increasing redness, pus, fever) at the injection site.

Serious Side Effects — When to Seek Immediate Care

Stop treatment and seek emergency care or call 911 immediately if you experience any of the following:

Emergency signs — seek care immediately
  • Severe persistent abdominal pain, especially radiating to the back — possible pancreatitis
  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing; rapid heartbeat; dizziness or loss of consciousness
  • Signs of thyroid tumor: lump or swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, persistent hoarseness, shortness of breath
  • Symptoms of low blood sugar (severe): seizures, loss of consciousness — particularly if taking insulin or sulfonylureas
  • Sudden vision changes — particularly in patients with diabetic retinopathy
  • Severe vomiting or diarrhea leading to significant dehydration — signs of dehydration include extreme thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, very low urine output, confusion
  • Suicidal thoughts or severe mood changes — call 988 immediately or go to the nearest emergency room

Before You Start — Tell Your Provider

Inform your Wasef Health provider of all of the following before starting compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide. Failure to disclose relevant medical history may affect the safety of your treatment.

Medical history to disclose
  • Personal or family history of thyroid cancer or MEN 2
  • History of pancreatitis
  • Gallbladder disease or gallstones
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Kidney disease or reduced kidney function
  • Liver disease
  • Heart disease or history of arrhythmia
  • History of eating disorders
  • Depression, suicidal ideation, or mental health conditions
  • Type 1 diabetes or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
Medications to disclose
  • All insulin medications
  • Sulfonylureas (glipizide, glyburide, glimepiride)
  • Other GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Saxenda, Victoza)
  • Oral contraceptives
  • Blood thinners (warfarin)
  • Any weight loss supplements or medications
  • All prescription and over-the-counter medications
  • Herbal supplements

Drug Interactions

Insulin and sulfonylureas — hypoglycemia risk
When used with insulin or sulfonylurea medications, GLP-1 medications increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Your provider may need to reduce your dose of insulin or sulfonylurea when starting treatment.
Oral medications — delayed absorption
GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying, which can delay the absorption of oral medications taken at the same time. This is particularly relevant for oral contraceptives and medications with narrow therapeutic windows. Discuss timing with your provider if you take oral contraceptives or other time-sensitive oral medications.
Do not use with other GLP-1 medications
Do not use compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide if you are already taking another GLP-1 receptor agonist (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Saxenda, Victoza, Byetta, Bydureon, or any other GLP-1 medication). Combining GLP-1 medications significantly increases the risk of serious adverse effects.

Pregnancy, Fertility & Breastfeeding

Do not use during pregnancy

GLP-1 medications should not be used during pregnancy. Based on animal studies, there may be potential risks to the unborn baby from exposure during pregnancy. There is no benefit to weight loss during pregnancy and it may cause harm to the developing fetus.

If you are female or male of reproductive potential: Discontinue compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy, as the medications can persist in the body for this duration.

If you become pregnant while taking compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide, discontinue immediately and contact your provider.

Breastfeeding — not recommended
It is unknown whether semaglutide or tirzepatide are present in human breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse effects in nursing infants, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with GLP-1 medications.
Oral contraceptives — backup method required (tirzepatide)

GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying, which may affect the absorption of oral contraceptives and reduce their effectiveness.

For tirzepatide specifically: Use a non-oral backup contraceptive method (such as a condom or other barrier method) for 4 weeks after initiating tirzepatide and for 4 weeks after each dose escalation. This is consistent with the FDA prescribing information for Zepbound (tirzepatide).

For semaglutide, discuss timing of oral contraceptive doses with your provider. If you use oral contraceptives, inform your Wasef Health provider before starting treatment.

Storage & Handling

Proper storage guidelines
Temperature
Refrigerate at 36°F–46°F (2°C–8°C). Do not freeze.
Light
Protect from light. Store in original packaging or a dark location.
Room temperature
Unopened vials may be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F / 25°C) for up to 28 days per USP <797> guidelines. Confirm specific beyond-use date on your vial.
After opening
Follow the beyond-use date on the vial provided by the pharmacy. Contact your pharmacy with specific storage questions.
Disposal
Dispose of used needles in an FDA-cleared sharps container. Do not dispose of sharps in household trash or recycling.
Children
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Do not use if the medication appears abnormal
Do not use compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide if it appears discolored, cloudy, or contains particles. Contact your pharmacy immediately if you have concerns about the appearance of your medication.

Ondra Health — Provider & Pharmacy Roles

Wasef Health, PC — your prescribing provider

All prescriptions issued to Ondra Health patients are made by licensed providers at Wasef Health, PC, an independent medical practice. Wasef Health is led by board-certified physicians across Internal Medicine, Obesity Medicine, and Family Medicine.

Ondra Health is a telehealth platform that connects patients with Wasef Health providers. Ondra Health does not prescribe medication. All clinical decisions — including the initial prescription, dosing, titration schedule, and any decision to continue, adjust, or discontinue treatment — are made solely at the discretion of the licensed provider.

NPI numbers are publicly verifiable at the CMS NPPES NPI Registry.

Pharmacy partners — licensed compounding facilities

Medications prescribed through Ondra Health are filled by one of six named, state-licensed compounding pharmacies based on your state of residence and formulation preference. All 503A pharmacy partners follow USP <797> sterile compounding standards.

Ondra Health pharmacy partners: Hallandale Pharmacy (503A), Boudreaux's New Drug Store (503A), Vials RX (503A), Strive Pharmacy (503A), Quaker / Apothecary Pharma (503B), The Pharmacy Hub / BPI Labs (503A + 503B).

State-specific availability and formulation options are viewable at ondra.health/service-areas.

Formulation Additives

Some Ondra Health pharmacy partners include supportive co-factors in their compounded GLP-1 formulations. These additives are not present in FDA-approved brand-name GLP-1 products and are not FDA-reviewed in this context. Disclose any known allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients to your provider before starting treatment.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin)

Water-soluble vitamin included in some formulations as a supportive co-factor. Supports energy metabolism and nerve function. Available through Vials RX (with Glycine) and Strive Pharmacy (B12/Glycine blend).

Note: If you are sensitive to cobalt or have a history of Leber's disease (hereditary optic neuropathy), inform your provider before use.

Glycine (amino acid)

Non-essential amino acid used as a peptide stabilizer to help preserve the structural integrity of the active peptide during storage. Available through Boudreaux's, Vials RX (with B12), and Strive Pharmacy.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

Water-soluble vitamin included in some tirzepatide formulations. Supports protein metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Available through The Pharmacy Hub / BPI Labs (tirzepatide only).

Note: High doses of B6 over extended periods may cause peripheral neuropathy. Doses in compounded formulations are typically within safe ranges — discuss any concerns with your provider.

Pure formulations (no additives)

Pure compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide with no additives is available through Hallandale Pharmacy and Boudreaux's (both medications), and Quaker / Apothecary Pharma (tirzepatide only).

Reporting Adverse Events

If you experience a serious adverse event or unexpected side effect while taking a compounded medication prescribed through Ondra Health, you are encouraged to report it through the following channels.

FDA MedWatch

The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program accepts reports from patients and healthcare professionals.

Online: fda.gov/medwatch

Phone: 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088)

Ondra Health & your pharmacy

Report adverse events to your Wasef Health provider through the patient portal and to the dispensing pharmacy directly.

Care team: care@ondra.health

Patient portal: care.ondra.health

Full Regulatory Disclosure

Compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide dispensed through Ondra Health are not FDA-approved finished drug products. The FDA has not evaluated these compounded preparations for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality. Compounded semaglutide ≠ Ozempic®/Wegovy®. Compounded tirzepatide ≠ Mounjaro®/Zepbound®.

Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Mounjaro® and Zepbound® are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company.

This document does not constitute medical advice. All prescriptions are issued solely by licensed providers at Wasef Health, PC. Ondra Health does not prescribe medication.

Clinical trial data (STEP 1, SURMOUNT-1) reflects FDA-approved brand-name products — not compounded versions. Individual results vary. This is a summary — always consult your provider for individualized guidance.

For questions about your treatment, contact your care team at care@ondra.health. For medical emergencies, call 911. For mental health crises, call or text 988.