Which kind of product am I being offered?

What does FDA approval mean?

FDA approval follows a review by the Food and Drug Administration of the evidence for that medicine. The agency found it works for a particular use, with safety acceptable for that purpose.

For semaglutide, FDA approval covers the products Ozempic and Wegovy; that is their status as of September 26, 2026. Tirzepatide also has approved products under the names Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Ask why this medicine is being considered for your concern. Get the medicine’s full name and its form: shot, tablet, or another kind. That is what its form means.

What if the medicine is made to order?

Compounded medicines are made to order and are not approved by FDA, as of September 26, 2026.

Before they are sold, FDA does not check whether they work, are safe, or are made well.

FDA says custom medicines can fill a medical need when an approved drug cannot. They can also help if the approved drug is unavailable to buy.

Ask what need the custom version is meant to meet. A clear answer is more useful than the word personalised.

Is research use a care option?

FDA urges consumers to avoid weight-loss products labelled for research but sold for use in people, as of September 26, 2026. The quality of these products remains unproven, and people who use them could be harmed.

A label meant for research does not answer a question about your medical care.

What details can I request?

• The medicine’s full name and the ingredient responsible for its action.
• Whether the medicine has approval or is being prepared to order.
• Who would prescribe it and who would make it.
• Why this medicine is being discussed for my concern.