Policy Research Grants
Funding For:
The Rise of Compounded GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications: A Landscape Analysis of the Direct-To-Consumer Market
Health Care Costs & Quality
Recipient:
Michael DiStefano, University of Colorado
Grant Period:
Jan 01, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025
AMOUNT:
$46,967.00
Summary of the Project:
During GLP-1 shortages, compounded versions of the drugs gained popularity as a cheaper alternative to sought after weight loss drugs. This study will look at the rise in compounded GLP-1 products advertised and sold to consumers by telehealth platforms, weight loss clinics, and medical spas. It will identify and describe the direct-to-consumer market for these products in the US, including advertising claims regarding the safety and efficacy of compounded GLP-1 products.
Media Coverage
July 17, 2026
Compounded semaglutide, tirzepatide continued to be sold after shortages ended
Healio
Learn MoreAuthor: Michael Monostra
July 20, 2026
GLP-1 compounders find loophole in FDA crackdown, study suggests
Beckers Hospital Review
Learn MoreAuthor: Mackenzie Bean
July 20, 2026
Compounded GLP-1s Still Widespread Despite Shortage Fix
Medscape
Learn MoreAuthor: Devyani Gholap
July 20, 2026
Go to a med spa for GLP-1 injections? That drug may be coming from a red-flagged pharmacy
Yahoo!news
Learn MoreAuthor: Dallas Gagnon
Grantee Publications
July 17, 2026
Postshortage Compounded GLP-1 RA Market in 2 States With Potentially High Demand
Learn MoreAuthor: Michael J. DiStefano, PhD; Adeleine Tilley, BS; Deepika Paratane, MS; et al