The usage of GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists has grown worldwide. High demand has pushed these medications onto the FDA’s Drug Shortage List. As a result, the FDA has issued guidance for compounding pharmacies to help address the shortage by making essential copies of the patented drugs, for as long as the drugs remain on the FDA’s Shortage List.
Many patients and their healthcare providers would prefer to avoid injections if possible due to the challenges associated with giving/receiving an injection, the complex storage conditions requiring freezing/refrigeration and the short expiration dating per USP guidelines. Patients also report suffering from side effects like intense nausea and headaches. This feedback has led us to explore alternatives to the injectable medications we compound here at Potter’s House Apothecary.
HOW DO THESE MEDICATIONS WORK?
GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists work by increasing the amount of insulin that the pancreas releases in response to food, while decreasing the amount of sugar the liver releases into the blood and slows food leaving the stomach after eating. In turn, this helps control blood glucose levels and prompts the feeling of fullness, resulting in weight loss overtime. These medications are intended to work in conjunction with diet and exercise to improve blood sugar (glucose) levels in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. These medications are not for use in patients with type 1 diabetes.
HOW DOES SUBLINGUAL MEDICATION WORK?
The oral route of administration does pose challenges due to the drug’s high molecular weight, extremely low absorption with the commercially available oral tablets and the drug’s sensitivity to the heat required to compound it into a lozenge. As compounders, we specialize in the sublingual delivery of medications for hormone replacement therapy and pediatrics. We are now pleased to provide patent-pending compounded formulations for sublingual administration.
The sublingual suspension (liquid) is made using both commercially available and bulk ingredients, and SubMagna™ HMW anhydrous base. SubMagna™ is an anhydrous, self-emulsifying drug delivery system that is specifically designed to deliver drugs with a high molecular weight and has beneficial mucoadherant properties to increase contact time with the sublingual space. The medication is absorbed into the blood stream through the mucosa underneath the tongue. Some of the medication may also be absorbed in the GI tract and stomach after swallowing.
WHY POTTER’S HOUSE APOTHECARY?
Trust is key when you are working with a compounding pharmacy to provide your medication. In addition to our voluntary PCAB Accreditation, our pharmacy is USP 795, 797, and 800 compliant. We use high quality ingredients from FDA registered facilities and leverage state-of-the-art technology to produce medications that meet your healthcare provider’s exact specifications. You will have peace of mind knowing that your medication has been compounded by a trusted pharmacy professional and is not only safe, but effective.