When it comes to weight loss, few treatments have generated as much buzz as the GLP-1 medications. Many people first heard of semaglutide (brand names Wegovy® and Ozempic®) as a breakthrough for appetite control and weight management. But in 2025, the FDA officially ended the allowance for compounded semaglutide, citing both supply stabilization and safety concerns. That decision has left many patients wondering—what now?
At Garden of Bloom Med Spa, we believe the answer is Saxenda® (liraglutide), an FDA-approved, evidence-backed treatment for weight management that’s both safe and effective.
Why Did the FDA Stop Compounded Semaglutide?
During nationwide shortages, compounding pharmacies were temporarily allowed to make semaglutide. That changed when the FDA declared the shortage resolved in February 2025. By April 22, 2025, state-licensed 503A compounding pharmacies had to stop, and by May 22, 2025, larger 503B outsourcing facilities were also required to discontinue production.
The reason wasn’t just supply. The FDA also expressed serious safety concerns:
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Some compounded products contained the wrong ingredients, unsafe impurities, or no active drug at all.
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Dosing errors were reported, leading to severe nausea, vomiting, or dangerous side effects.
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Fraudulent listings and “copycat” versions made it nearly impossible for patients to know if they were getting a real, safe product.
In June 2025, a federal judge upheld the FDA’s authority, confirming that compounded semaglutide is no longer legal to dispense for weight loss.
In short: if you see semaglutide still being sold outside of a retail pharmacy, there’s a good chance it’s not legitimate or safe.
Why Saxenda® (Liraglutide) Is a Trusted Option
Unlike compounded medications, Saxenda® is fully FDA-approved for chronic weight management. It works in a similar way to semaglutide—by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to regulate appetite, slow digestion, and help control blood sugar. The main difference? Saxenda is taken daily instead of weekly.
Clinical Evidence:
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In the pivotal SCALE clinical trials, patients using Saxenda lost an average of 6–8% of their body weight over 56 weeks—compared to only 0.2–2.6% in the placebo groups.
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Many achieved 10–15 pounds of weight loss, and importantly, the SCALE Maintenance trial found that 81% of patients kept at least 5% of their weight off after nearly a year.
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FDA data further confirmed that Saxenda produced an average 5.7% reduction in body weight, versus just 1.6% with placebo.
These results show that Saxenda is a proven, sustainable treatment when combined with lifestyle changes like healthy nutrition and activity.
How Garden of Bloom Makes It Accessible
At Garden of Bloom Med Spa, we offer Saxenda as part of a comprehensive medical weight loss program. Every patient begins with a thorough consultation ($75) to review health history and set safe, realistic goals. Monthly follow-ups ($55) ensure the treatment plan is working for you, with adjustments as needed.
We also provide supportive therapies like IV drips, vitamin injections, and supplements that can boost energy, reduce cravings, and help you feel your best while on your weight loss journey.
SEO Quick Facts (for patients searching online):
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Saxenda (liraglutide) for weight loss is FDA-approved.
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Clinical trials show 6–8% average body weight loss in one year.
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Semaglutide compounding is discontinued as of May 2025 due to FDA regulations and safety risks.
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Garden of Bloom Med Spa in Davenport, Iowa offers Saxenda within a structured, supportive medical weight loss program.
Final Thoughts
While the discontinuation of compounded semaglutide may feel discouraging, it’s also an opportunity to shift toward a safer, more reliable option. Saxenda has years of data proving its effectiveness and remains an accessible treatment for those seeking real, lasting results under medical supervision.
If you’re ready to explore FDA-approved medical weight loss options, Garden of Bloom Med Spa is here to guide you with expertise, compassion, and care.
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