GLP 1 Patches: Hype, Risks & Safer Alternatives

What Are GLP 1 Patches?

In theory, the GLP-1 patch sounds great; its claim to fame is that it helps suppress hunger by simply wearing a patch for a set amount of time. But all isn’t what it seems here.

GLP-1 patches generally don’t actually contain any GLP-1 medication. 

Despite the name, there is no FDA-approved GLP-1 patch containing semiglutide, tirzepatide, or any other GLP-1 receptor agonist. Instead, these patches often contain herbal extracts and vitamins, such as:

• Berberine
• Cinnamon extract
• B vitamins
• Pomegranate extract
• Green tea extract
• L-glutamine
• Garcinia cambogia

While some of these ingredients have been studied for their potential metabolic benefits, there’s limited scientific evidence indicating such effects when delivered through the skin. And the patches you see advertised online are fundamentally different from FDA-approved GLP-1 medications. 

Additionally, GLP-1 medications require a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional, so products marketed as “GLP-1” without a prescription are not equivalent to FDA-approved GLP-1 medications.

If you’ve been searching for things like “do glp 1 patches work,” “glp 1 patches reviews,” or “glp1 patches reviews,” it’s important to understand that these over-the-counter products are not the same as prescription GLP-1 drugs.

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Risks of GLP Patches

While prescribed GLP-1 medications have their benefits for specific populations, GLP patches carry several risks. Remember, most over-the-counter GLP-1 patches do not contain any GLP-1 medication, so they’re not expected to deliver the same effects as prescription-only GLP-1 drugs. On top of this, risks may include:

No FDA-Approval for Safety or Effectiveness

Unlike prescription GLP-1 drugs, which undergo rigorous testing, these patches are sold as supplements and are not reviewed by the FDA for effectiveness before being marketed, and quality may vary by the product.

Unproven Absorption Through the Skin

Many of the ingredients in GLP patches have primarily been studied when taken orally. In fact, there’s limited evidence indicating that these ingredients have the same benefits when penetrating the skin. 

Potential Skin Reactions

When wearing an adhesive patch for a long duration, skin irritation may occur. And because these products aren’t required to undergo the same pre-market testing as prescription drugs, they may carry the risk of skin issues or reactions, and product quality and ingredients can vary between manufacturers.

Cardiovascular Concerns

Herbal ingredients, like synephrine, which may be included in some GLP-1 patches, come with their own set of risks. Research shows that synephrine has been associated with adverse cardiovascular effects.

Delayed Access to Effective Treatment

Using unproven patches may delay an individual’s decision to seek out proven and effective treatment methods, such as FDA-approved GLP-1 medications.

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GLP-1 Patch Alternatives 

Ultimately, GLP-1 medications must be prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. Your doctor will ultimately recommend what’s best for you and your specific situation. Prescription GLP-1 patch alternatives include:

Semaglutide

Semaglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist available as a weekly injection—under the brand names Ozempic® and Wegovy®—or as a daily oral tablet—sold as Rybelsus®.  

Ozempic® and Rybelsus® are approved for the management of type 2 diabetes, and Wegovy® is approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity who meet certain criteria. Like other GLP-1 medications, semaglutide can cause side effects such as gastrointestinal symptoms and potentially serious risks described in its prescribing information, so it should only be used under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider.

Liraglutide

Liraglutide is another FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist, available only as a daily injection and under the brand names Victoza® and Saxenda®. Unlike the weekly dosing of some other GLP-1 medications, liraglutide is administered once per day.

Victoza® is approved for managing type 2 diabetes, while Saxenda® is approved for chronic weight management. Liraglutide can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and potential serious risks such as pancreatitis and gallbladder problems, and is not right for everyone.

Tirzepatide

Tirzepatide is a newer medication that works as a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, targeting two hormones involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation. It’s administered as a once-weekly injection.

Tirzepatide is sold under the two brand names, Mounjaro® and Zepbound®. Mounjaro® is approved for the management of type 2 diabetes, and Zepbound® is approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight and weight-related conditions. 

As a prescription-only medication manufactured under strict FDA oversight, tirzepatide has undergone safety and efficacy review that over-the-counter patches have not. A licensed healthcare provider can help determine if tirzepatide is right for you. These medications also carry important risks (including gastrointestinal side effects and a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors) that should be discussed with your clinician.

Dulaglutide

Dulaglutide is a once-weekly injectable GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. 

Sold under the brand name Trulicity®, it’s delivered through a single-use pen designed to provide consistent, accurate dosing. Dulaglutide can also cause side effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms and a boxed warning regarding thyroid C-cell tumors, and should only be used under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider.

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Final Thoughts

Before starting any new supplements or medication, it’s a good idea to discuss your options with your doctor; they know you and your health situation the best and can make personalized recommendations. 

At the end of the day, GLP-1 patches are not FDA-approved GLP-1 medications. FDA-approved GLP-1 drugs require a prescription from a qualified healthcare professional. They are also strictly regulated and undergo various testing procedures to evaluate their safety and effectiveness before approval. 

Simply put, most GLP 1 patches marketed as supplements don’t go through the same FDA pre-market review process and don’t contain the same active ingredients as prescription GLP-1 drugs. This is why it’s best to discuss your options with your doctor to ensure you make real and effective progress toward your health and wellness goals.

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