GLP-1 Glossary

A state-licensed pharmacy operating under Section 503A that prepares patient-specific medications against a valid prescription. Regulated primarily by state boards of pharmacy. Section 503A is a federal compounding framework, not a pharmacy certification.

An FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facility that can compound medications in larger batches without patient-specific prescriptions and is subject to stricter federal oversight, including current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) requirements. Registration with the FDA is not the same as FDA approval of each compounded medication.

A screening measure that uses height and weight to estimate body fat. Many GLP-1 providers use BMI, along with other health factors, to determine eligibility for treatment.

A medication prepared by a compounding pharmacy to meet an individual patient’s needs. Compounded GLP-1s are not FDA-approved versions of brand-name drugs; they are made to order and are typically available when a brand-name product is in shortage.

A pharmacy licensed to prepare customized medications. The two regulatory categories are 503A (traditional, patient-specific) and 503B (FDA-registered outsourcing facility). A compounding pharmacy may partner with a telehealth provider to dispense compounded GLP-1 medications.

Glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, a second incretin hormone involved in blood sugar regulation. Tirzepatide targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, which is why it is called a dual agonist.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 is a naturally occurring hormone that regulates blood sugar, slows digestion, and signals fullness to the brain. GLP-1 medications mimic or enhance this hormone’s effects to support weight loss and blood sugar management.

A hormone released by the gut after eating that stimulates insulin secretion. GLP-1 and GIP are both incretins, and medications that enhance their activity are sometimes called incretin therapies.

The promotional monthly rate a provider charges during the first billing period or titration phase. Our cost calculator highlights intro prices alongside ongoing prices so you can compare long-term cost, not just the starting rate.

The ongoing dose taken after the titration phase is complete. It is typically higher than the starting dose and is intended for long-term use rather than initial introduction.

The monthly rate charged after any introductory period ends. Comparing ongoing prices across providers helps reveal the true long-term cost of a treatment plan.

A substance that binds to and activates a cellular receptor, producing a similar effect to the body’s natural molecule. GLP-1 receptor agonists activate the same receptors that the natural GLP-1 hormone targets.

A GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes (brand names Ozempic, Rybelsus) and later approved for chronic weight management (Wegovy). Compounded semaglutide is produced by compounding pharmacies, typically as an alternative during shortages of the brand-name product.

A situation in which the FDA-recognized supply of a drug is insufficient to meet demand. Compounded versions of a medication are generally permitted when the brand-name product is listed by the FDA as in shortage.

A method of administering medication into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Most injectable GLP-1 medications are given once weekly using this method.

The delivery of healthcare services remotely, typically via video, phone, or online questionnaires. Many GLP-1 providers operate through a telehealth model: a clinician reviews your health history online and, if appropriate, prescribes medication shipped from a partner pharmacy.

A dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist developed for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and approved for chronic weight management (Zepbound). It activates two incretin hormones, which may produce greater weight loss than a GLP-1-only medication. Compounded versions are also available.

The practice of gradually increasing a medication dose over time to improve tolerability and reduce side effects. Most GLP-1 treatment plans start at a low dose and step up over several weeks.