What Is Compounded Semaglutide?

Compounded semaglutide is a custom-prepared version of the GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management and blood sugar control. Unlike brand-name products (Ozempic, Wegovy), compounded semaglutide is prepared by compounding pharmacies and typically comes in a multi-dose vial.

It requires manual drawing and injection using an insulin syringe, rather than the pre-filled auto-injector pens used with brand-name products.

Supplies You'll Need

  • Compounded semaglutide vial — from your prescribing practitioner or compounding pharmacy.
  • Insulin syringe — 0.5ml, 31G, 6mm recommended for accurate small-dose measurement.
  • Alcohol wipes — for cleaning the vial top and injection site.
  • Sharps container — for safe disposal of used syringes.

Our GLP-1 Starter Kit includes 10 syringes and 20 alcohol wipes.

How to Draw from a Vial

  1. Clean the vial top with an alcohol wipe and let it air dry.
  2. Remove the syringe cap — pull straight off without touching the needle.
  3. Draw air — pull the plunger back to the volume you intend to draw.
  4. Insert the needle through the rubber stopper.
  5. Inject the air into the vial to prevent a vacuum.
  6. Invert the vial — turn upside down with the needle tip submerged in liquid.
  7. Draw the medication — slowly pull the plunger back to your prescribed dose.
  8. Check for air bubbles — tap the barrel to move bubbles to the top, push them back into the vial.
  9. Verify the dose and remove the syringe.

Injection Technique

  1. Clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe. Let it dry completely.
  2. Pinch a fold of skin at the chosen site (abdomen or thigh).
  3. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle.
  4. Inject slowly — push the plunger down steadily.
  5. Wait 5-10 seconds before removing the needle.
  6. Dispose of the syringe immediately in a sharps container.

For detailed guidance, see our Subcutaneous Injection Technique for Beginners guide.

Storage and Handling

  • Before first use: Refrigerate (2-8°C). Do not freeze.
  • After first use: Room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 28 days, or refrigerate. Check with your pharmacy.
  • Before injecting: Remove from fridge 15-30 minutes beforehand for comfort.

Dosing Schedule

Semaglutide is typically injected once per week. A typical escalation schedule:

  • Weeks 1-4: 0.25mg once weekly
  • Weeks 5-8: 0.5mg once weekly
  • Weeks 9+: 1mg once weekly (or as directed)

Always follow your practitioner's specific dosing instructions.