Comment from Anonymous
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Summary: An individual who successfully lost weight using compounded tirzepatide argues that banning compounded versions of these medications would deprive many people of affordable access. They contend that because insurance does not cover the expensive brand-name drugs, compounded options are essential for managing obesity and preventing related chronic diseases.
It will be very unfortunate if the FDA decides to ban compounded weight loss meds such as semaglutide and tirzepatide. I have lost 50 lbs on compounded tirzepatide, and the my quality of life has completely turned around. My insurance does not cover the FDA approved brand name medications (Ozempic/Wegovy, Mounjaro/Zepbound), and I can’t afford to spend $1500 a month (or more) on the brand name medication. The compounded meds have been a life saver for so many people like myself who otherwise would not have access to these meds. There are so many things in our healthcare system that make no sense. Insurance companies don’t want to cover these meds, but I guess they would rather cover the billions of dollars in claims that result from obesity, diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain, and the endless other diseases that come with obesity. The amount of money that insurance pays for these claims just further drives up premiums and healthcare costs. It’s an endless cycle. Nor will the drug companies decrease the cost of their brand name meds. I have a history of gestational diabetes, so I am higher risk for developing diabetes. One would think that insurance would rather pay for medication to help keep the weight off and thus reduce my risk of developing diabetes than pay for all of the claims that come with diabetes. These meds are literally miracle meds for people who struggle with their weight, and if compounded forms are banned, we will lose that. If the FDA approved meds were affordable, it wouldn’t be an issue, but they’re not.