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Over 100 million Americans tuned in to Hims & Hers’ provocatively political Super Bowl ad, challenging the weight-loss drug industry this past Sunday during the big game.
The advertisement, set to Donald Glover’s “This Is America,” took a sharp critique of the $160 billion weight-loss drug market, asserting that medications designed for success come at a cost steeply priced for profits.
A narrator voiced, “Welcome to weight loss in America — a $160 billion industry that feeds on our failure. There are medications that work — but they are priced for profits, not patients.”
The ad briefly showcased Hims & Hers’ GLP-1 injections, which contain compounded semaglutide, the same active ingredient found in Novo Nordisk’s popular diabetes and weight-loss treatments, Ozempic and Wegovy. The controversy erupted when Hims & Hers failed to include a list of risk disclaimers, unlike what is required in Wegovy advertisements.
What Are Compounded Drugs?
Compounding is the practice of customizing approved drugs by licensed pharmacists or physicians to meet individual patients’ specific needs. Modifications may involve adjusting doses, altering formulations to avoid allergens, or converting medications from solid to liquid forms.
According to the American Pharmacists Association, there are approximately 7,500 pharmacies in the U.S. dedicated to compounding drugs.
Why Is Hims & Hers Allowed to Sell Compounded Weight-Loss Drugs?
Typically, the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act forbids the compounding of drugs that are mere copies of commercially available medications. However, medications in shortage are exempt from this prohibition. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, is currently experiencing a shortage due to increased demand, allowing compounders to manufacture and distribute semaglutide-based injections.
How Much Do They Cost?
Hims & Hers introduced compounded semaglutide injections for $199 per month, a significant discount compared to Ozempic’s nearly $1,000 list price and Wegovy’s $1,349 price tag. This pricing makes it a highly attractive alternative for those seeking affordable weight-loss solutions.
Are There Any Risks?
While Hims & Hers emphasizes the affordability of its compounded formulations, it’s crucial to highlight the inherent risks. Compound drugs are not FDA-approved, meaning their safety and efficacy have not undergone rigorous testing and review by the agency.
The FDA reported receiving adverse event reports related to patients using compounded semaglutide, suggesting that these products may pose unforeseen health risks. The agency advised patients to use FDA-approved medications whenever possible.
Hims & Hers claims they have conducted thorough research and partnered with a reputable U.S. manufacturer specializing in generic and compounded drugs. However, these steps do not negate the potential risks associated with unapproved medications.
The controversy over Hims & Hers’ Super Bowl ad exposes the complexities surrounding weight-loss drug pricing and regulation. While the company presents an appealing alternative, consumers must weigh the benefits against potential risks.
As the discussion around compounded drugs continues, the debate around accessibility, affordability, and safety in the pharmaceutical industry remains a focal point.
Do you have thoughts on Hims & Hers’ advertisement and compounded weight-loss drugs? Share your opinions below!
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