Compounded injectable semaglutide is a prescription GLP-1 medication taken once a week. It may support weight loss by reducing appetite and helping you feel full longer.
Your provider decides if it is right for you and sets your dose. Always follow your prescription label.
What it is
Semaglutide is injected just under the skin. It is intended for long-term weight management and may also support metabolic health.
A lower-dose approach called microdosing may be available if prescribed. Your provider will choose the treatment and dose that fit your needs.
Compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved. The FDA does not review or approve compounded medications for safety or effectiveness.
How to take it
Inject semaglutide once a week, on the same day each week.
Use the exact dose shown on your prescription label. Your dose or syringe units may change between refills. Do not change your dose on your own. Ask your provider through the chat in the SkinnyRx app if you have questions.
Common injection sites include:
- The fatty layer of your abdomen
- The front or side of your thigh
- Your upper arm
Rotate the injection site each week. Use a new needle and syringe for every injection. Place used needles in a sharps container. For complete steps, see How do I take my injection?.
If you miss a dose, see What should I do if I miss a dose?.
Storage
Keep the medication refrigerated between 36°F and 46°F. Never freeze it. You may let it come to room temperature before your injection if needed.
Check the beyond-use or expiration date on your vial. Never use medication past that date. Discard the vial 28 days after first use, even if the printed date has not passed. See How do I store my medication? for more information.
Common side effects
Common side effects may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Bloating, gas, or heartburn
- Fatigue or headache
- Injection-site redness or soreness
- Mild hair loss
Side effects are often mild and may improve as your body adjusts. See What should I do if I have side effects?.
When to contact your care team
Contact your care team if you have persistent or painful swelling at an injection site. You should also contact them if side effects concern you or you have questions about your medication.
Use the chat in the SkinnyRx app to ask your provider about dose or medication changes.
Important safety information
Semaglutide should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you become pregnant during treatment, stop taking your medication right away and tell your care team. If you are breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy, tell your provider.
Stop taking your medication and seek emergency care right away, call 911 or go to the ER, if you experience:
- Severe, ongoing pain in your upper or middle stomach that may spread to your back
- Rash, itching, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing or swallowing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever, or clay-colored stools
- Vision changes, fainting, severe dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat
- Decreased urination or swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet
If you think you took too much, seek emergency medical attention right away.
Need more help?
Contact the support team. See How do I contact support?.