Important Safety Information

This page summarizes important safety information for the compounded GLP-1 medications, semaglutide and tirzepatide, that a licensed provider may prescribe through YourEra. It is not a complete list of possible risks. Review your full medical history with your provider before starting treatment, and contact your care team with any questions.

About compounded medications

Our compounded tirzepatide and compounded semaglutide are custom formulations prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy in the United States to meet individual patient needs pursuant to a prescription for an individual patient. These medications are not the same as the brand-name drugs Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, or Zepbound®, which are manufactured by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. Because the medications we offer are compounded formulations for individually identified patients, they have not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety or effectiveness. Prescriptions are issued only if a licensed clinician determines treatment is appropriate after evaluation.

Warning: possible thyroid tumors, including cancer

In studies with rodents, semaglutide and tirzepatide caused thyroid C-cell tumors. It is not known whether these medications cause thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), in people. Tell your provider right away if you develop a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath.

Who should not use these medications

• Anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
• Anyone who has had a serious allergic reaction to semaglutide, tirzepatide, or any of the ingredients in the compounded product.
• People who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Discuss contraception and family planning with your provider; stop treatment at least two months before a planned pregnancy.
• People with type 1 diabetes or a history of diabetic ketoacidosis. These medications are not a substitute for insulin.
• These medications may also not be appropriate for people with a history of pancreatitis, severe gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroparesis, or diabetic retinopathy. Your provider will review your history before prescribing.

Common side effects

GLP-1 medications are generally well tolerated, but they can cause side effects. The most common are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite, indigestion, fatigue, and reactions at the injection site. Side effects are usually most noticeable when starting treatment or after a dose increase and often improve over time. Tell your care team if they persist or interfere with eating and drinking.

Serious side effects

Stop using the medication and contact your provider, or seek emergency care, if you experience any of the following:

• Pancreatitis: severe pain in your stomach area that will not go away, with or without vomiting, which may spread to your back.
• Gallbladder problems: pain in the upper stomach, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or clay-colored stools.
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if you also take insulin or a sulfonylurea: dizziness, shakiness, sweating, confusion, fast heartbeat, or blurred vision.
• Kidney problems: dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can worsen kidney function. Keep drinking fluids.
• Serious allergic reactions: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, severe rash, or fainting.
• Changes in vision, particularly for people with type 2 diabetes.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Depression or thoughts of harming yourself. Tell your provider about any changes in mood or behavior.
• Severe stomach problems, including stomach paralysis (gastroparesis) or bowel blockage.
• Food or liquid entering the lungs during surgery or procedures under anesthesia. Tell any surgical or anesthesia team that you are taking a GLP-1 medication.

Drug interactions

GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, which can change how oral medications are absorbed. Tell your provider about every prescription, over-the-counter medication, and supplement you take, especially insulin, sulfonylureas, and other diabetes medications. If you take oral birth control pills and are prescribed tirzepatide, use a non-oral or backup method for four weeks after starting and after each dose increase.

How to use safely

• Use only as prescribed. Do not change your dose without talking to your provider.
• Store the medication as directed by the pharmacy and check the label before each use.
• Never share your medication or injection supplies with anyone else.
• Attend scheduled check-ins so your care team can monitor your progress and side effects.

Questions or concerns

Message your care team anytime from the patient portal or email support@yourera.com. In an emergency, call 911. This information is educational and does not replace a conversation with a licensed provider who knows your health history. Individual results vary.