Compounding involves creating a medication specifically tailored to an individual's needs. For instance, a patient might require a liquid version of a medication that is only available as a pill. Additionally, pharmacies can compound medications using FDA-approved drugs that are in short supply.
These compounded drugs are prepared by state-licensed pharmacies that adhere to both FDA and state regulations, ensuring they meet quality standards. When made according to federal laws, compounded drugs do not require FDA approval and are exempt from undergoing safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing reviews.
Willow is collaborating with compounding pharmacies to provide compounded semaglutide, which contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy. Notably, Willow offers a compounded product that includes semaglutide base, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, and not semaglutide salts, which differ from the active ingredient in those medications.
Compound Semaglutide drops are administered via daily doses under the tongue. They are a safe and popular alternative for patients that are uncomfortable with self-injections.
Sublingual medication works by placing the drug under the tongue, where it dissolves and is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the tissues.
The area under the tongue has a rich supply of blood vessels, which allows the medication to bypass the digestive system and liver, leading to faster and more efficient absorption compared to oral medications that are swallowed.
When you eat, the food stimulates your gut to release the GLP-1 hormone. GLP-1 helps lower blood glucose (blood sugar) by triggering insulin release. Insulin helps blood glucose enter your body’s cells for later energy use.
In some people, the gut doesn't make enough natural GLP-1, or the brain isn't sensitive to it.
Semaglutide is a synthetic GLP-1 RA (receptor agonist). A drug that works as an agonist activates the same cell receptors as the body’s natural hormones. Semaglutide works in the gut like the body’s natural GLP-1, slowing digestion, curbing hunger, and signaling fullness to the brain.
We believe in a sustainable and flexible approach to nutrition, without imposing limitations on your diet. Our goal is to guide you in establishing healthy eating habits, complemented by the medication's ability to decrease appetite and “food noise”. We encourage maintaining a nourishing, high-protein diet, but most patients are able to lose weight without the need for uncomfortably restrictive dieting or calorie counting.
Common side effects of semaglutide are usually mild and may include:
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Decreased appetite
• Indigestion
The majority of side effects are transient and typically resolve spontaneously. Nevertheless, if side effects persist or deteriorate, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.
Willow also offers Odansetron to manage side effects if they occur. This medication is commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Semaglutide Patient Safety Information
When stopping Semaglutide abruptly, some patients may experience mild to moderate weight gain. Others may maintain the weight loss they achieved while on the medication. We recommend patients work with their Willow physician to slowly decrease their dose in order to maintain their weight loss achievements.
You may notice an increase in appetite and a return of food cravings, allowing you to eat more without feeling as full. However, stopping Semaglutide is a safe and common practice that doesn't involve serious health risks. By gradually tapering off the medication with your physician’s guidance, you can better manage these changes and maintain your health and wellness goals.
Semaglutide is administered once a week via a subcutaneous injection. Don’t worry! The needle is very small and short, making self-injection quick & easy. We’ll provide you with detailed written and video instructions that make the process simple and easy to follow. We even include a link to a soothing Spotify playlist to play in the background if you wish.