Affordable GLP-1 Weight Loss Solutions: His & Hers Offers Wegoby Alternatives at 85% Less

Introduction

His & Hers is now selling for weight loss compounded semaglutide for weight loss, offering prices that are significantly lower than Wegovy and Ozempic. Since it closes a supply gap, customers may benefit from this. 

However, people should be aware that compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved and undergoes less extensive testing than brand-name drugs.

Overview of His & Hers Offering

On May 20, 2024, Hims & Hers announced that it will now be selling a compounded version of Novo Nordisk’s popular diabetes and weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy.Via their own telehealth network, a doctor will administer their compounded version of the GLP-1 medication, semaglutide.

Cost and Availability

These weight-loss pills are far less expensive than name-brand ones, with monthly rates for oral treatment kits starting at $79 and for injections at $199. Wegovy costs $1,349.02 a package, while Ozempic has a list price of $935.77.

Problems with Supply and Demand

Demand for Wegovy, the only brand of semaglutide now licensed for treating obesity, has skyrocketed.  

According to The Wall Street Journal, sales more than doubled during the first quarter of this year. As a result, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) reports continuing shortages of Wegovy injections, including the 0.25 mg/0.5 mL, 0.5 mg/0.5 mL, and 1 mg/0.5 mL formulations.

His & Hers' Strategy

In an interview with CNBC, Andrew Dudum, CEO of His & Hers, stated that the company has partnered with one of the largest manufacturers of generics in the U.S. to ensure they would not fall prey to supply issues.

He informed the news source, "With that facility, we have a certain level of exclusivity that will guarantee our consumers consistent volume and supply."

Expert Opinion

According to Dr. Michael O. McKinney, a weight-loss physician at Healthy Outlook in Jacksonville, Florida, the availability of affordable compounded semaglutide through His & Hers could be a boon for customers.

"The company may create a market where even more people can afford Ozempic and Wegovy, used in weight loss therapy, by adopting this low-cost alternative," he stated.

Understanding Compounded Semaglutide

Compounding is a process in which ingredients are combined, mixed, or altered to create a medication.

According to McKinney, "compounding semaglutide is made in a compounding pharmacy by a licensed pharmacist, unlike commercially manufactured semaglutide products such as Ozempic and Wegovy." According to the specific needs of the patient, "this allows adjustments to be made regarding dosage, form, or ingredients used," he continued.

Benefits of Compounding

An individual's allergy to an inactive ingredient in a pharmaceutical that is sold commercially is a frequent cause for creating drugs. It is possible to design the drug specifically to include the active ingredient and exclude any unwanted ingredients. Compounding is another method of boosting the supply of a necessary drug in the event of a prescription shortage, like the one that Wegovy is experiencing.

FDA Approval and Safety Concerns

One important distinction between compounded medications and those made by large manufacturers is that compounded medications like semaglutide are not approved by the FDA."To ensure safety, efficacy, and quality, the FDA approval process entails rigorous testing and is applicable to medications that are mass-produced," stated McKinney. Compounded medications do not require this drawn-out approval procedure.

Conclusion

The introduction of compounded semaglutide by His & Hers presents a more affordable option for weight loss treatment, potentially expanding access to more individuals. However, it's crucial to be aware of the differences between compounded and FDA-approved medications, particularly regarding safety and efficacy. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication is recommended.

FAQs

1.What is compounded semaglutide?

Compounded semaglutide is a custom-formulated medication made by combining, mixing, or altering ingredients in a compounding pharmacy to meet the specific needs of a patient.

2.Why is compounded semaglutide not FDA-approved?

Compounded medications do not go through the FDA approval process, which is required for mass-produced drugs. This process involves extensive testing to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality.

3.How much does compounded semaglutide from His & Hers cost?

Prices start at $79 per month for oral medication kits and $199 per month for injections, significantly lower than the brand-name drugs Ozempic and Wegovy.

4.What are the benefits of compounding medications?

Compounding allows for customization of medications to remove allergens, adjust dosages, or alter forms to suit individual patient needs. It can also help address drug shortages.

5.Is compounded semaglutide as effective as Wegovy or Ozempic?

While compounded semaglutide can be effective, it has not undergone the same rigorous testing as FDA-approved drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic. Speak with a healthcare professional to learn about the advantages and possible hazards.