More People Are Overdosing on Ozempic Alternatives

The rise in the use of compounded semaglutide, an alternative to brand-name weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, has led to an increase in overdose incidents. Many patients, seeking cheaper options or unable to find the brand-name drugs, are self-administering compounded versions without proper guidance. Reports indicate a significant jump in calls to poison control centers regarding overdoses, with 159 calls in 2024 compared to just 32 in 2023. The FDA has issued warnings about the risks associated with these compounded medications, which are not subject to the same regulatory scrutiny as approved drugs. Patients often struggle with dosing due to inconsistent instructions and varying measurement units, leading to accidental overdoses. Some individuals have reported taking doses 10 to 20 times higher than recommended, resulting in serious health issues such as hospitalization, pancreatitis, and dehydration. While some patients manage their dosing effectively, many rely on online resources for guidance, which can be misleading. Experts emphasize the need for better counseling from healthcare providers and pharmacists to ensure safe administration of these medications.

- The use of compounded semaglutide is increasing, leading to more overdose cases.

- There has been a significant rise in calls to poison control centers regarding compounded GLP-1 overdoses.

- The FDA has warned about the risks of compounded medications due to lack of oversight.

- Patients often face challenges with inconsistent dosing instructions and measurement units.

- Better education and counseling from healthcare providers are essential to prevent overdoses.