Looking for compounded tirzepatide in California? Here's what you need to know right now.
Compounded tirzepatide is no longer legally available in California or anywhere in the United States. The FDA ended all sales of compounded tirzepatide in March 2025, and that decision stands today.
This isn't just a California rule. It's federal.
Let's break down what happened, why it matters, and what options you actually have today.
Why Compounded Tirzepatide Was Discontinued
Between 2022 and 2024, there was a massive shortage of tirzepatide medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound.
People couldn't get their prescriptions filled. Wait times stretched for months.
The FDA created a temporary workaround. They allowed compounding pharmacies to make versions of tirzepatide during the shortage.
This wasn't a permanent solution. It was a bridge.
When Eli Lilly expanded their manufacturing in late 2024, the shortage ended. Once supply caught up with demand, the FDA closed the compounding loophole in March 2025.
The Safety Concerns Were Real
The FDA didn't just end compounding because supply returned. There were genuine safety issues:
• Over 300 adverse events reported related to compounded tirzepatide
• No standardized quality control across compounding facilities
• Difficulty verifying actual medication dosages
• Concerns about counterfeit products entering the market
Compounded medications don't go through the same rigorous testing as FDA-approved drugs. There's no way to guarantee what's actually in each vial.
When prescribed by a licensed medical provider, and when clinically appropriate, medication safety and quality control matter significantly for your health outcomes.
What Changed in 2025
Here's the timeline of what happened:
March 2025: FDA officially ended the compounded tirzepatide exemption
May 2025: Court challenges upheld the FDA's decision
Today: Only FDA-approved tirzepatide products are legal
Some websites might still advertise compounded tirzepatide. They're either outdated or operating illegally.
Don't risk it.
Your Legitimate Options in California Right Now
You have two FDA-approved tirzepatide medications available:
💊 Mounjaro (Type 2 Diabetes)
Approved for managing blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. Many patients also experience weight loss while taking Mounjaro, though that's not its primary FDA indication.
💊 Zepbound (Weight Management)
Specifically approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with weight-related health conditions.
Both medications contain the same active ingredient: tirzepatide. The difference is what they're officially approved to treat.
When prescribed by a licensed medical provider, and when clinically appropriate, these medications work by mimicking hormones that regulate blood sugar and appetite.
How to Access FDA-Approved Tirzepatide in California
Getting legitimate tirzepatide is straightforward:
Step 1: Consult with a licensed healthcare provider who can evaluate your medical history, current health status, and weight management goals.
Step 2: Your provider determines if you meet eligibility criteria for tirzepatide therapy.
Step 3: If appropriate, you receive a prescription for Mounjaro or Zepbound.
Step 4: Fill your prescription through a licensed pharmacy.
Telemedicine platforms like DrMed Health can connect you with licensed California providers who specialize in weight management.
Who May Qualify for Tirzepatide
Eligibility varies by individual circumstances. Generally, providers consider:
• BMI of 30 or higher (obesity)
• BMI of 27 or higher with weight-related health conditions
• Previous weight loss attempts
• Overall health status
• Other medications you're taking
When prescribed by a licensed medical provider, and when clinically appropriate, your provider will assess whether tirzepatide aligns with your specific health needs.
Not everyone qualifies. That's intentional. These medications work best for specific patient populations under medical supervision.
Understanding the Cost Difference
Let's be honest: FDA-approved tirzepatide costs more than compounded versions did.
That price difference existed because compounded drugs bypassed the research, testing, and quality assurance that FDA approval requires.
Here's what affects your cost today:
Insurance Coverage: Some plans cover Mounjaro for diabetes. Zepbound coverage for weight loss varies significantly.
Manufacturer Savings Programs: Eli Lilly offers savings cards that may reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible patients.
Telemedicine Platforms: Services like DrMed Health often provide transparent pricing and may offer competitive rates for both consultation and medication.
The total cost depends on your insurance, which medication you're prescribed, and your dosage level.
What About Other GLP-1 Medications
Tirzepatide isn't your only option for weight management.
Other FDA-approved medications work similarly:
Semaglutide (Wegovy for weight loss, Ozempic for diabetes): A single-hormone GLP-1 medication with proven weight loss results.
Liraglutide (Saxenda): An earlier GLP-1 medication, taken daily rather than weekly.
When prescribed by a licensed medical provider, and when clinically appropriate, your provider can discuss which medication best fits your health profile and goals.
Some patients prefer semaglutide alternatives depending on their response, side effects, or insurance coverage.
Explore related weight loss medication options through compounded GLP-1 alternatives where legally available and appropriate.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of any website or service that:
• Claims to offer "compounded tirzepatide" today
• Doesn't require a provider consultation
• Ships medication internationally to bypass U.S. regulations
• Makes extreme weight loss promises
• Offers suspiciously low prices
These are signs of illegal operations or counterfeit products.
Your health isn't worth the risk.
Moving Forward with Legitimate Care
California has robust telemedicine infrastructure. You can access licensed providers who specialize in weight management without leaving home.
Quality providers will:
✓ Review your complete medical history
✓ Discuss realistic expectations
✓ Explain potential side effects
✓ Monitor your progress regularly
✓ Adjust treatment as needed
When prescribed by a licensed medical provider, and when clinically appropriate, medical supervision ensures you're using these medications safely and effectively.
Check if you qualify for FDA-approved weight loss medications through a quick online assessment.
The Bottom Line
Compounded tirzepatide is no longer available in California or anywhere in the U.S. That chapter closed in March 2025.
But FDA-approved tirzepatide medications remain available through legitimate medical channels.
Yes, they cost more. Yes, you need proper medical supervision. That's actually good news: it means you're getting real medication with verified quality and safety.
If you're interested in tirzepatide for weight management, connect with a licensed provider who can evaluate your individual situation. Visit our California services page to learn more about accessing care in your state.
Or speak with an online weight loss doctor who can discuss all available options for your situation.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results vary. When prescribed by a licensed medical provider, and when clinically appropriate, weight loss medications may be one component of a comprehensive weight management plan. Eligibility, safety, and effectiveness vary by individual circumstances. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting any new medication. DrMed Health operates in compliance with all applicable telemedicine regulations and HIPAA requirements.
Medically Reviewed: Content developed with clinical input from licensed healthcare providers specializing in obesity medicine and metabolic health. Last updated February 2026.