PeptideChemSF said:

The shortage clause is the answer to the second question and it is a subtraction rather than an addition.

Bookmarking. The distinction being drawn above is the one nobody else makes. Adding it to my notes with a link back to this thread.

Adding the clinical framing, because it changes how the question reads.

Compounding pharmacy red flag checklist for compounded supply — if ANY of these apply, find a different source:

1. No verifiable physical address
2. No pharmacist available for consultation
3. COA not available or clearly template/fake
4. Prices dramatically below market ($30-40/month = suspicious)
5. No prescription required
6. Ships without cold pack or temperature control
7. No batch/lot numbers on product labeling
8. Pushes "research use only" products for human injection

Your health depends on product quality. Don't cut corners on source verification.

BariatricNurseD said:

FDA inspection results for compounding pharmacies selling compounded supply: you can look up any 503B facility's FDA inspection history on the FDA…

For compounded supply users considering compounded for the first time: here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Get a prescription from your doctor (telehealth counts)
2. Research 503B compounding pharmacies with good community reviews
3. Verify their FDA registration and inspection history
4. Request a COA for your specific compound before ordering
5. Start with a 1-month supply to test
6. Consider sending a sample to Janoshik for independent verification
7. Track your response compared to brand (if you were on it previously)

SkepticalSean said:

They are two different exemptions from the same federal requirements and they buy different things.

Price comparison for compounded supply across sources I've used:

I use the 503B option — best balance of quality, cost, and legality. The brand price is insane but insurance can help if you qualify.

Moderator note: reminder that nothing in this thread is medical advice, and that clinical claims need a source. Report rather than reply if it drifts again.