Important Safety Information Regarding Compounded Semaglutide Products
Please note: Compounded medications, including semaglutide, are not FDA-approved and do not undergo the same clinical studies as FDA-approved drugs to evaluate safety and efficacy. However, compounded medications may still be legally prescribed. Based on your medical consultation, a healthcare provider at Yucca Health may determine that compounded semaglutide is suitable for you.
Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for chronic weight management, combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It is prescribed for individuals with:
- BMI ≥30 (obesity)
- BMI ≥27 (overweight) with at least one weight-related condition (e.g., hypertension, type 2 diabetes, or dyslipidemia).
Consult your healthcare provider to see if semaglutide is right for you.
Warnings and Precautions
Serious Side Effects:
Semaglutide may cause the following serious side effects:
- Thyroid Tumors: Potential risk of thyroid cancer. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath.
- Gastroparesis (Stomach Paralysis): Symptoms include early satiety, nausea, vomiting, or prolonged stomach discomfort.
- Pancreatitis: Severe and persistent abdominal pain, with or without vomiting, may indicate pancreatitis.
- Gallbladder Issues: Symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or clay-colored stools could indicate gallstones.
- Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia): Risk is higher when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms include shakiness, confusion, sweating, and blurred vision.
- Kidney Problems: Dehydration caused by nausea or diarrhea may worsen kidney function.
- Severe Allergic Reactions: Seek medical attention if you experience swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, rash, or rapid heartbeat.
- Mental Health Changes: Report any new or worsening depression, mood changes, or suicidal thoughts to your healthcare provider immediately.
Who Should Not Use Semaglutide
Do not use semaglutide if:
- You or a family member has a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- You have had a severe allergic reaction to semaglutide in the past.
Medical Conditions to Discuss with Your Provider
Before starting semaglutide, tell your healthcare provider if you:
- Have or have had pancreas or kidney problems.
- Have type 2 diabetes and a history of diabetic retinopathy.
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Semaglutide is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
- Are taking medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or supplements.
Administration and Use
- Semaglutide is administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection in the stomach, thigh, or upper arm.
- Follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
- Do not adjust or discontinue semaglutide without consulting your provider.
Mechanism of Action
Semaglutide is a synthetic GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. By binding to GLP-1 receptors in the brain and body, it stimulates insulin secretion, inhibits glucagon release, and aids in appetite control.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
- Headache, fatigue, dizziness, and mild hypoglycemia (in people with type 2 diabetes).
These are not all possible side effects. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Important Note
If you experience a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate care.
For additional safety information, contact FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088 or visit www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Yucca Health is committed to providing safe, transparent, and high-quality care throughout your journey.