In recent years, medical weight loss has been transformed by breakthrough injectable medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide. These treatments, originally designed to manage blood sugar, are now used to help patients achieve safe, sustainable fat loss.
At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we prescribe compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide, enhanced with nutrients like glycine and vitamin B12 to support muscle preservation and energy — tailored to each patient's individual needs.
What Are Compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide?
These medications work by mimicking natural hormones that control hunger and blood sugar. Patients often experience decreased appetite, improved insulin sensitivity, and gradual and sustained weight loss.
Name-brand options are excellent but unfortunately can be very expensive for those without insurance coverage. We are able to offer compounded versions created by trusted compounding pharmacies. These custom formulations are available in a wider range of dosages and may be combined with additional supplements based on your medical profile.
Why Choose Compounded Medications?
Lower Cost
Brand-name injectables can cost $900–$1,300/month. Our compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide treatments typically range from $299–$550/month, offering a more accessible solution for patients seeking medical weight loss in Austin.
Customized with Glycine and B12
We tailor each prescription based on your lab results, body composition, and energy levels. Glycine helps maintain lean muscle mass and supports tissue repair, which is crucial when losing fat rapidly. Vitamin B12 supports metabolism and energy production, helping to combat fatigue, especially in calorie-restricted diets. These enhancements promote fat loss without sacrificing muscle, and help patients feel their best throughout treatment.
Better Availability
Due to ongoing shortages of commercial products, compounded versions offer a reliable alternative that helps patients stay consistent and avoid treatment gaps.
Is It Safe?
While compounded medications are not FDA-approved like their brand-name counterparts, they are regulated by state pharmacy boards and must be prepared in licensed compounding facilities using sterile protocols and quality-tested ingredients.
At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we only work with pharmacies that meet rigorous standards, and our patients receive a full medical evaluation, ongoing clinical monitoring, transparent dosing protocols, and access to a team committed to their health and safety.
Understanding 503A vs. 503B Compounding Pharmacies
When it comes to compounded medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide, not all compounding pharmacies are the same. At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we only partner with pharmacies that meet the highest standards for safety and compliance — either 503A or 503B facilities.
503A Pharmacies
503A pharmacies are traditional compounding pharmacies that prepare medications for individual patients based on a specific prescription from a licensed provider. These pharmacies are regulated by state boards of pharmacy, must follow USP <797> guidelines for sterile compounding, can only compound patient-specific prescriptions (not in bulk), and are ideal for personalized medications that include custom dosages or added ingredients like glycine or vitamin B12.
503B Outsourcing Facilities
503B pharmacies, also called outsourcing facilities, are regulated by the FDA in addition to state boards. These facilities are allowed to produce medications in larger batches, ship across state lines without patient-specific prescriptions, and maintain cGMP compliance (Current Good Manufacturing Practices), similar to pharmaceutical manufacturers.
At Levesque Plastic Surgery, we primarily use 503A compounding partners as we prescribe for individual patients' home use. The pharmacies we partner with all use pharmaceutical-grade raw ingredients, adhere to sterility testing and quality control, provide certificates of analysis (COAs) and batch traceability, and maintain the highest compounding standards available.
What to Expect from Our Medical Weight Loss Program
Our Medical Weight Loss Program in Austin includes more than just a prescription. We create a personalized plan that may include compounded semaglutide or tirzepatide, glycine and B12 supplementation (as needed), nutritional support with education, and regular check-ins with our clinical team.
Whether you're just starting your journey or have tried multiple diets in the past, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between compounded and name-brand semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Compounded versions are custom-made by licensed pharmacies using the same active ingredients but without the brand name. They are often more affordable and may include added nutrients like glycine or vitamin B12, depending on your needs.
Are compounded weight loss medications safe?
Yes — when prescribed by a licensed provider and prepared by a reputable compounding pharmacy. We only use pharmacies that meet strict quality standards and provide third-party testing for safety and purity.
How much do compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide cost?
At Levesque Plastic Surgery, compounded treatments typically range from $350 to $500 per month, depending on dosage and customization. This is significantly more affordable than name-brand options.
Will I need lab work before starting treatment?
Yes. Every patient undergoes a full medical evaluation and baseline lab work so we can create a personalized weight loss plan that's safe and effective for you.
How long do I need to be on the injections to see results?
Most patients begin seeing changes within 4–8 weeks. Optimal results are typically achieved after 3–6 months of consistent treatment, paired with nutrition and lifestyle adjustments.