Experts Warn About Risks of Buying Weight Loss Drugs Online

Compounded versions of obesity medications may be cheaper, but come with less oversight and potential safety issues.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

As the demand for weight loss drugs like GLP-1 medications has surged, many Americans are turning to online providers, medical spas, and other non-traditional sources to obtain these medications. However, experts caution that these compounded versions, while potentially more affordable, face less regulatory oversight and may pose safety risks. The article explores the trade-offs patients face and provides guidance on how to safely navigate the online weight loss drug market.

Why it matters

The rise of online sales of compounded weight loss drugs highlights the growing demand for these medications, but also raises concerns about patient safety and the quality of the products being sold. This trend could lead to serious complications if patients do not receive proper medical supervision and support.

The details

Compounded versions of GLP-1 weight loss drugs are often sold by online providers, medical spas, and other non-traditional sources as a cheaper alternative to the brand-name versions. However, these compounded drugs are not subject to the same level of regulatory oversight as FDA-approved medications. They may contain different ingredients, dosages, or formulations that could be less effective or even unsafe. The article cites examples of compounded GLP-1 drugs that have been found to have less of the active ingredient than promised or to have been produced in unsanitary conditions.

  • In November 2025, a poll found that around one in four people taking GLP-1 medications were obtaining them from non-traditional sources rather than their primary care doctors.
  • Earlier in 2026, the online provider Hims & Hers announced it would sell a compounded version of the Wegovy pill for about $100 less per month than the brand-name version, but pulled the product from the market two days later after regulators raised concerns.

The players

Hims & Hers

A major online provider of obesity medications that briefly sold a compounded version of the Wegovy pill before pulling it from the market after regulatory concerns were raised.

Novo Nordisk

The pharmaceutical company that manufactures the brand-name versions of GLP-1 weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy.

Dr. Amy Sheer

An obesity medicine physician at University of Florida Health who cautions that compounded GLP-1 drugs face lower standards for safety, quality, and effectiveness compared to FDA-approved medications.

Dr. Goutham Rao

The chair of the family medicine and community health department at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, who says the biggest risk with compounded weight loss drugs is wasted money and stalled weight loss due to a poorly made or fake product.

Dr. Juliana Simonetti

The director of the obesity medicine program at University of Utah Health, who emphasizes that GLP-1 medications should be part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan, not a standalone solution.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This is not just about the weight. It's about improvement of health.”

— Dr. Juliana Simonetti, director of the obesity medicine program at University of Utah Health (New York Times)

“Let your doctor know. We're just happy to help any way we can.”

— Dr. Emily Hill Bowman, primary care physician at Nebraska Medicine (New York Times)

What’s next

Patients who are taking compounded weight loss drugs should consult their primary care doctor, bring the medication to their next appointment, and work with their doctor to ensure they are receiving safe and effective treatment.

The takeaway

The rise of online sales of compounded weight loss drugs highlights the need for patients to be cautious and work closely with their healthcare providers when seeking these medications. While compounded versions may be more affordable, they come with greater risks and less oversight, potentially leading to serious complications or ineffective treatment.