Due to the wordwide shortage of GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Wegovy and Zepbound, the FDA has issued an emergency decree allowing for compounding pharmacies to pick up the slack. This allows these highly specialized pharmacists to take the generic compound tirzepatide, and formulate it into an injectable solution that has similar properties to brand-name Zepbound. This will only be allowed until the FDA removes tirzepatide from the shortage list, at which time patients will only be able to use Zepbound for weight loss and Mounjaro for diabetes treatment.
We partner with MediVera Compounding Pharmacy in Troy, Michigan to provide our patients with a more affordable, compounded form of tirzepatide which will be available during the shortage only. This compounded semaglutide is roughly 80% cheaper than brand-name Zepbound.
After a patient is seen in the office and deemed a candidate to start the medication, we will electronically transmit a prescription to University Compounding Pharmacy. You will pay for your medication at JourneyLite Physicians and we will reimburse the pharmacy. A shipment will arrive in 5-7 days with syringes, needles, and a vial of medication.
During the time of your treatment, we require monthly visits for the first 4 months. The initial consultation must be a live, in-person appointment. Following that, every 3rd visit must also be in-person but the in-between months can be virtual visits. After the fourth visit you will need to be seen every 3 months for as long as you continue the medication.
This program is for patients who do not have GLP-1 coverage and are paying out of pocket for the medication (HSA’s can however be utilized).
Phase 1/Month 1
20mg tirzepatide (1cc): 1 vial – $233 (including needles and shipping)
- This order will be a 4-week supply of medication.
- You will be injecting 12.5 units injection per week.
- This is the Phase 1 Transition Dose. You will remain on this dose for four weeks, and then you will increase to the Phase 1 Maintenance Dose.
- You will receive injection instructions for the Phase 1 maintenance dose at your next appointment.
- As one of the biggest side effects of tirzepatide is nausea and vomiting, starting with a low dose like this will help minimize these issues and help your body get used to the medication.
What's Next?
You will need a new vial of tirzepatide for next month. A live or virtual appointment is required for month 2, and you can order your medication after the appointment. Failure to attend this visit will result in termination of the program!
IMPORTANT: You will need to provide your own alcohol prep pads (similar to these available on Amazon) to clean your skin and the top of the vial of medication before inserting the needle. You can also purchase these at your local pharmacy.
Sharps Disposal
IMPORTANT: DO NOT DISCARD USED NEEDLES/SYRINGES DIRECTLY IN THE TRASH. Place your used needles and syringes into a thick plastic container (such as an empty bleach bottle). Use a sharpie to mark “SHARPS” on the bottle. Once it is full, or when you are done with the program, use tape to secure the lid and place it in a trash receptacle.
You will be provided with the password for each phase at the appropriate office visit!
Phase 1
Password required.
Phase 2
Password required.
Password required.
Phase 3
Password required.
Password required.
