james_edin said:

For compounded supply users considering compounded for the first time: here's a step-by-step guide: Get a prescription from your doctor (telehealth…

I have been on both brand and compounded, and in the context of compounded supply, my experience has been equivalent with both. The key is finding a reliable 503B pharmacy with independent testing.

A narrower follow-up, since the general answer is now clear:

What a vetting checklist should actually contain, as opposed to a list of things that are easy to fake?

dan_philly said:

I have been on both brand and compounded, and in the context of compounded supply, my experience has been equivalent with both.

Beyond-use dating (BUD) for compounded supply compounded products:

Lyophilized (unreconstituted): typically 6 months from compounding date
Reconstituted with BAC water: typically 28-30 days refrigerated
Reconstituted with sterile water: typically 24 hours (no preservative!)

Always use BAC water for multi-dose vials. Sterile water has no preservative and supports bacterial growth after first puncture. This is a common and potentially dangerous mistake.

dan_philly said:

I have been on both brand and compounded, and in the context of compounded supply, my experience has been equivalent with both.

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.

dan_philly said:

I have been on both brand and compounded, and in the context of compounded supply, my experience has been equivalent with both.

That reframing is the part I needed.