What to Expect When Starting a Compounded GLP-1 Medication

Thinking About Starting a Compounded GLP-1? Here's What You Need to Know

If you’re exploring options for weight management or blood sugar support, you’ve likely heard about GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide. Due to high demand and ongoing shortages of some commercial versions, many patients are now considering compounded alternatives prescribed by their provider and filled through trusted pharmacies like ours.

At Good Day Pharmacy, we offer GLP-1s under strict regulatory guidelines — including:

• Oral Semaglutide

• Injectable Tirzepatide + Glycine

• Injectable Semaglutide + L-Carnitine
  

Let’s walk through what to expect when starting one of these compounded therapies — from the moment you get your prescription to your first pharmacist check-in.

Step 1: Getting a Prescription From Your Provider

GLP-1 medications, even when compounded, are prescription-only. You’ll first need to meet with a licensed healthcare provider who can assess whether a compounded GLP-1 is appropriate for your health goals.

Compounded GLP-1s are often considered when:

• There’s a supply issue with commercially available brands (e.g., Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Zepbound®)

• A patient requires a custom dose or delivery method (e.g., oral vs. injection)

• There are ingredient sensitivities or access barriers to branded products
  

Step 2: Picking Up or Receiving Your Medication

Once your prescription is ready, you’ll be contacted for pickup at your selected Good Day pharmacy location. You’ll receive:

• Your medication

• Detailed instructions for use, timing, and storage

• A pharmacist consultation if you have questions or need help getting started

• A sharps container (for injectable options)
  

Our team will make sure you feel comfortable and confident with your therapy before you leave the pharmacy.

Step 3: Picking Up or Receiving Your Medication

You’ll receive instructions from your pharmacist on how and when to pick up or receive your compounded medication by mail (if permitted in your state).

Here’s what’s included:

• Your medication (pre-filled syringe, vial, or oral capsule)

• A Medication Guide with instructions, dosing schedule, and storage tips

• Sharps container (for injectable options, if needed)

Step 3: Proper Storage & Handling

💉 For Injectable GLP-1s (Semaglutide or Tirzepatide):

• Store in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F)

• Do not freeze

• Keep away from direct light

• Remove from fridge only when ready to inject
  

💊 For Oral Semaglutide:

• Store at room temperature

• Keep bottle closed tightly and away from moisture

• Do not store in the bathroom or in direct sunlight
  

Step 4: Dosing & Administration

Your provider will typically start you on a low dose to help your body adjust and reduce the risk of side effects like nausea. Doses may gradually increase based on how you respond.

🩺 Injectable Medications:

• Usually taken once a week

• Inject under the skin (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm)

• Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation

• Never reuse needles or share supplies
  

💊 Oral Semaglutide:

• Take on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning

• Swallow with water (no food or drink for at least 30 minutes after)

• Take consistently, same time each day
  

If you’re unsure how to administer your dose, just ask — we’re happy to demonstrate.

Step 5: Ongoing Pharmacist Support

Starting a new medication doesn’t end at pickup. Our pharmacists are here to support your success with:

• Check-ins after you begin your medication

• Monitoring for side effects and questions

• Communication with your provider if dose changes are needed

• Refill reminders to help you stay on track
  

Our goal is to make sure your treatment is working well and fits your lifestyle.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone on This Journey

At Good Day Pharmacy, we’re here to help you feel confident and supported — from your first dose to your follow-up. Whether you’re starting injectable tirzepatide or oral semaglutide, our team is here to provide the guidance, education, and tools you need to succeed.

Have Questions?

Visit your nearest Good Day Pharmacy or contact our Compounding Business Specialist Bryce Berquist: Bberquist@gooddaypharmacy.com We’re here to:

• Answer questions about your medication

• Help you learn proper administration

• Provide support through every step of your therapy
  

Because your health is personal — and your pharmacy should be too.