Drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) have transformed the management of obesity. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, these medications have shown remarkable efficacy in promoting substantial weight loss and even cardiovascular benefits, leading to widespread use. But with their success (and cost) has come a flood of imitation from those looking to capitalize on their popularity. So-called “GLP-1 weight loss patches” are promoted by influencers as a cheaper, non-prescription alternative to GLP-1 injections. Is there evidence to support these claims?
The biggest new drugs in a generation
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide and the dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist tirzepatide mimic naturally occurring hormones that regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) slows stomach emptying, promotes feelings of fullness, and stimulates insulin release when blood sugar is high. GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) works in a complementary way, further enhancing insulin secretion and further boosting the effectiveness of GLP-1 drugs. There are now numerous GLP-1 drugs available, as different pharmaceutical companies have raced to get a share of this huge new market.
Importantly, GLP-1 and GIP drugs are large peptide molecules, meaning they are not absorbed through intact skin, or well absorbed when swallowed in their original form. The skin’s outermost layer, the stratum corneum, effectively blocks most molecules from being absorbed. And in the stomach, acid and digestive enzymes rapidly break down peptides like semaglutide unless they are specially formulated with absorption enhancers, as in the approved oral form of semaglutide. So the primary form of delivery of these drugs is by injection.
The problem with patches
Despite the scientific (and patent) barriers, “GLP-1 weight loss patches” are widely marketed online and even sold in some retail stores, typically with claims that they deliver GLP-1 or “boost” GLP-1. None of these products are approved by the FDA, Health Canada, or any major national drug regulator. In most cases, the ingredient lists are vague or missing entirely.
When ingredients are provided, it may list components like B-vitamins, berberine, cinnamon extract, and L-glutamine. While some of these products may have therapeutic effects, none have been shown to meaningfully contribute to weight loss, particularly when administered via a transdermal patch. There is no evidence to demonstrate that supplements have effects similar to these drug products.
Delivering large molecules through skin is inherently difficult. If these products truly contained semaglutide or tirzepatide, they would be considered prescription drugs, subject to strict manufacturing standards. And before licensing, manufacturers would have to prove that the drug was not only absorbed reliably and consistently via patch, and that these products worked as well as the (proven) injectable versions.
Risks beyond the wallet
When consumers buy GLP-1 “patches,” they are putting themselves at the mercy of a largely unregulated industry. As I’ve blogged many times before, non-drug supplements are not held to the same manufacturing standards as prescription medicines. There is no assurance that what’s on the label matches what’s inside, or that the product contains any active drug at all. As a health care professional, I rely on regulators to ensure products are made to high quality standards so I can confidently apply clinical evidence to the patient in front of me. With unregulated products like these patches, all bets are off. It’s buyer beware: you don’t know if it works, and neither do your pharmacist or doctor. At best, it’s a placebo and only your wallet suffers. At worst, it may cause skin irritation, and could even contain contaminated or undisclosed ingredients. In either case, you’ve delayed getting an effective treatment.
The bottom line
GLP-1 and GIP/GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide have transformed the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes – but there are no over-the-counter shortcuts. A patch claiming the same benefits without a prescription is not only scientifically implausible, it’s a red flag for an unregulated product that hasn’t been tested or proven safe. If you’re interested in these medications, speak with your primary care provider or pharmacist. Don’t rely on social media influencers. Health care professionals can help you understand the real benefits and risks, determine if these drugs are appropriate for you, and ensure you get a product that’s been evaluated for safety, quality, and effectiveness. There may even be ways to reduce the cost through insurance coverage or manufacturer assistance programs. With your health and money on the line, there’s no substitute for evidence-based medicine.
