Who Should Not Take Semaglutide: Contraindications and Precautions

Compounded Semaglutide may be used to help manage Type-2 diabetes. Wegovy®, a form of compounded Semaglutide, is FDA-approved for weight management in adults with obesity. Common side effects of compounded Semaglutide may include mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

Certain individuals should avoid compounded Semaglutide due to potential health effects. This article will discuss cases in which people are typically advised against taking compounded Semaglutide. .

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Key Takeaways

• Compounded Semaglutide has specific precautions, and it should only be taken post consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. 
• Some common scenarios in which compounded semaglutide is advised against include pregnancy, breastfeeding, and for those with a history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
• Additionally, individuals with kidney or liver disease, pancreatitis, and a history of cardiovascular diseases should consult with licensed healthcare providers to determine the safety of compounded semaglutide for their health. 
• Currently there is no research proving compounded semaglutide is safe for breastfeeding women; therefore, it should be avoided by breastfeeding women. 

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Understanding Semaglutide's Mechanism of Action

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To understand why certain individuals should avoid compounded Semaglutide, let’s first understand how this medication works. Compounded Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Compounded Semaglutide mimics a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1).

GLP-1 is naturally produced in the body and helps regulate blood sugar levels, insulin secretion, and the sensation of fullness. Individuals with obesity or type 2 diabetes may have lower levels of GLP-1, making it more challenging for them to manage their weight and blood sugar levels.

Since compounded Semaglutide acts like GLP-1 in the body, it supports blood sugar regulation and appetite control, which is why it’s used to aid weight management in people with obesity.

Compounded Semaglutide helps to stimulate insulin production in the pancreas. This process helps lower blood sugar levels, slows the rate at which food leaves the stomach, and reduces appetite, potentially supporting weight loss.

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Contraindications: Who Should Not Take Semaglutide

While compounded semaglutide may be prescribed for Type 2 diabetes, patients may also use it for weight management purposes through consultation with licensed healthcare providers. Discussing potential benefits and risks with a licensed provider will help determine if this is the right option for you. However, certain medical conditions increase the risk of complications from compounded semaglutide intake. Below are some cases in which you should avoid using compounded semaglutide.

If you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC): Compounded Semaglutide has been linked to an increased risk of developing MTC, a type of thyroid cancer. Individuals with a history of MTC or any first-degree relatives diagnosed with MTC should avoid compounded semaglutide.

Pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding women: There is limited research on the effects of compounded semaglutide on pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is therefore, not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Individuals with a history of pancreatitis: Compounded Semaglutide has been associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatitis, a potentially dangerous inflammation of the pancreas. Individuals with a history of this condition should avoid taking semaglutide.

Those with renal impairment: Compounded Semaglutide can put a strain on the kidneys and may not be suitable for individuals with moderate to severe renal impairment. It is important to consult a doctor and undergo regular kidney function tests while taking semaglutide.

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Other conditions in which compounded Semaglutide should be avoided may include:

• Endocrine tumors (MEN 2)
• Problems with vision
• Stomach-related health conditions
• Allergies to semaglutide or other drugs/food/beverage/environmental conditions

Prescription is required for usage of Compounded Semaglutide. Consultation with a licensed healthcare provider is required to determine if compounded Semaglutide treatment is appropriate for your weight management journey.

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Precautions: When to Use Semaglutide with Caution

There are certain conditions where compounded semaglutide usage may not be restricted, but close medical supervision by licensed healthcare providers may be required. First, it's crucial to learn how to inject compounded semaglutide yourself. Generally, it is injected once a week, under the skin, preferably with the pen injector that comes with the medication. 

You should also consult with your licensed healthcare provider to understand the differences between compounded semaglutide tablets or compounded semaglutide injections in order to determine which works best for your weight management plan. 

Regular check-ins with a licensed healthcare provider can help ensure that your weight management plan goes smoothly and your body reacts positively to compounded semaglutide. Your licensed healthcare provider may require regular blood and urine tests.

Compounded Semaglutide may cause certain complications when you use it with other medications, including insulin or sulfonylureas. If you are prescribed other medications alongside compounded semaglutide, you should closely monitor your health. 

Additionally, those who are allergic to any substances should also monitor for any allergic reactions while using compounded semaglutide. Note that compounded semaglutide may cause allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema if not controlled properly.

Semaglutide may increase your heart rate, even when not exercising or in relaxed conditions. This may lead to an uncontrolled heart rhythm and other cardiovascular problems. Therefore, it is important to discuss the risks of heart attacks and strokes with your licensed healthcare provider.

Lastly, you should buy compounded semaglutide from pharmacies who purchase from FDA-approved facilities. 

Use Try Eden to Connect with Semaglutide providers. 

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Semaglutide and Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

Obesity can cause other underlying health problems like diabetes, heart diseases and blood pressure issues.  Oftentimes, patients wanting to treat obesity with semaglutide have one or more pre-existing or underlying health conditions. If you have any other health issues, it is important to consult your licensed healthcare provider before starting the treatment with semaglutide.

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Diabetes and Semaglutide

As mentioned earlier, semaglutide may help manage diabetes. Therefore, many may believe that it is safe to use with other diabetic medications. However, if you have been prescribed other medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, it is important to monitor their effect when combined with semaglutide. You may still use semaglutide as per the guidance of your licensed healthcare provider. 

Thyroid Disorders and Semaglutide

Thyroid Disorders and Compounded Semaglutide

There is no simple answer to the question, “Is compounded Semaglutide safe for patients with thyroid disorders?” For individuals with hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), compounded Semaglutide may increase heart rate further. Conversely, hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) may make it more challenging for compounded Semaglutide to support weight management.

Before starting compounded semaglutide, any concerns should be discussed with your licensed healthcare provider.

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Semaglutide and Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, semaglutide is over 99% protein bound; this means it should be very low in the milk of the breastfeeding mother. The same source also states that only 0.4% to 1% of semaglutide is absorbed orally, so it is unlikely to be harmful for the fetus.

However, there are no specific studies on the effect of semaglutide during breastfeeding. Since breastfeeding is a crucial period, it’s best to avoid compounded Semaglutide during this time. Talk to your licensed healthcare provider about alternative options to help you manage weight safely while breastfeeding.

In comparison to the effects on breastfeeding mother, the effects of semaglutide on pregnancy are better researched. that using semaglutide during pregnancy can lead to hazards like miscarriage, birth defects and other issues.

Read more about semaglutide usage in Try Eden's FAQ section.

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Semaglutide and Kidney/Liver Impairment

Claims of kidney and liver impairment due to compounded Semaglutide usage are uncommon right now. However, these pre-existing health conditions may require dosage adjustments.

If you have any liver or kidney dysfunction, you should discuss with your licensed healthcare provider before starting compounded Semaglutide treatment. Semaglutide might  increase the risk of side effects and adverse reactions.

Individuals with liver impairment are advised against using compounded Semaglutide altogether. Since the medication is metabolized through the liver, it may lead to elevated levels in the body, potentially causing harm.

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Pancreatitis

Those with even a familial history of pancreatitis should be aware of the risks associated with compounded semaglutide usage. Semaglutide usage may lead to inflammation of the pancreas . If you experience severe abdominal pain or nausea while taking semaglutide, you should seek medical help immediately.

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Allergies to Different Medications and Food

If you are allergic, be aware that semaglutide usage may cause hives and swelling of the throat, tongue, or face.

It is important to disclose any allergies you have to your doctor before starting liraglutide treatment.

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Talking to Your Doctor About Semaglutide

You must consult your licensed healthcare provider in regards to any health conditions including pregnancy or breastfeeding prior to beginning compounded semaglutide. 

Be very open and transparent with your doctor about your medical history, current medications and any concerns you may have. Even if you’re hoping for weight management results and believe compounded Semaglutide might be a solution, your licensed healthcare provider may recommend a different approach based on your unique health needs.

If you have further questions regarding approval for compounded Semaglutide or how to obtain compounded Semaglutide without insurance, you should consult a licensed health provider.

Try Eden is a digital platform connecting patients with licensed providers for consultation. Eden does not prescribe or dispense medications.

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Who Should Not Take Semaglutide FAQ

Can I take semaglutide if I have a family history of thyroid cancer?

We cannot definitively answer this question, as it is important to consult with your licensed healthcare provider about your medical situation and history. However, according to the National Institute of Health, there have been reports of thyroid cancer in patients taking semaglutide. Therefore, if you have a family history of thyroid cancer, it is crucial to discuss this with your doctor before starting semaglutide.

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How can I know if semaglutide is safe for me?

Your doctor will assess your medical history and current health status to determine if semaglutide is safe for you. They may also conduct tests or screenings to further evaluate your eligibility for the medication.

You should be transparent and honest regarding any health concerns or underlying conditions that may affect your body’s ability to take semaglutide safely.

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Final Thoughts on Semaglutide Contraindications and Precautions

The most common underlying concerns for semaglutide include a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, and hypersensitivity to the medication.

Additionally, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women to take semaglutide as its effects on unborn babies are still unknown.

Precautions should also be taken if you have a history of pancreatitis or gallbladder disease.

Try Eden is a platform that connects patients with licensed healthcare providers for personalized consultations regarding treatment options.

Use Try Eden to Connect with Semaglutide providers. 

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‌Disclaimer: The FDA does not approve compounded medications for safety, quality or manufacturing. Prescriptions and a medical evaluation are required for certain products. The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare professional and should not be relied upon as personal health advice. The information contained in this blog is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns including side effects. Use of this blog's information is at your own risk. The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse effects, or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions or information provided in this blog. 

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