FAQs About Compounded Sublingual GLP-1 Medications

• Question: What are compounded sublingual GLP-1 medications?

  • Answer: Compounded sublingual GLP-1 medications are customized formulations of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) therapies prepared by specialized compounding pharmacies. They are designed to be placed under the tongue (sublingual) for absorption, offering an alternative to traditional injection methods.

• Question: Why would I choose a sublingual formulation over injections?

  • Answer: Sublingual formulations can offer a more convenient and less invasive method of administration compared to injections. They may also be preferable for those who don’t like needles or prefer not to self-inject.

• Question: Are compounded sublingual GLP-1 medications safe?

  • Answer: As an accredited compounding pharmacy, we are not allowed to make claims about formulations that we make for you.  We can say that making medications from scratch is our lane and quality is our top priority.  We use only the best ingredients available.  Our equipment is state of the art and our compounding team has elite expertise and experience.

• Question: How long will it take for me to see results?

  • We have found it takes 5-6 weeks to reach a steady state in your body, so hang in there! Some may see results within 8 weeks, while others may see them within 12 weeks.  Studies showed that patients on the injectable version of GLP-1s lose an average weight loss of 15% of body weight at 68 weeks, so it takes them over a year.  You may be able to reduce your dosing to 3 times weekly as you reach a steady state and your goals. Ask our pharmacists!

• Question: Are there any side effects to using compounded sublingual GLP-1 medications?

  • Answer:
    Common side effects may include:
    • low blood sugar (in people with type 2 diabetes);
    • upset stomach, heartburn, burping, gas, bloating;
    • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite;
    • diarrhea, constipation;
    • runny nose or sore throat;
    • stomach flu symptoms; or.
    • headache, dizziness, tiredness.
      Always ensure you’re discussing any side effects with your healthcare provider and with us, your pharmacy team.

Dosing Tips & Tricks for Success

We have found the following tips to be important factors in patients who have lost weight and kept it off.

• Shake well before using each dose
• Keep the dose in your mouth for at least two minutes before swallowing. The longer the better. We recommend sloshing around all parts of the mouth. Try doing this while you do other things; walk your dog, take a shower, etc.
• Morning dosing may be more impactful and is recommended while you are doing something routine.
• Do not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after dosing. The idea is to allow for as much surface time as possible to potentially increase absorption.
• If you prefer nighttime dosing, that is fine. We have consulted with a dentist who indicated that it would be ok to use after brushing teeth at night.
• Be aware that some foods may trigger gastrointestinal symptoms–especially foods with high-fat content.
• The quantity of food consumed may trigger gastrointestinal symptoms. Warning: this may come on suddenly! So eat slowly and stop when full.
• Stay hydrated with regular fluid intake throughout the day versus drinking a lot at once.
• Weigh regularly and notice what works for you and what does not. For example, you will typically hold fluid weight with high-sodium foods.
• Intermittent fasting can be a great addition to your journey.
• Build muscle with weight training.
• Regular exercise is never a bad idea as you are looking to be healthier and ramp up your weight loss.
• Increase protein in your diet as you reduce carb intake.

Prepare from the beginning of this journey by anticipating the future. By incorporating the above tips out of the gate, you will be investing in your best future self. Building muscle, eating more protein, hydrating, and getting good sleep will always work in your favor.  Start with these and keep them going!