The telehealth companies Hims & Hers have started selling the weight loss drug Wegovy (semaglutide) and the diabetes drug Ozempic (same active ingredient) online via their platforms. This has raised concerns from some medical experts:
- Wegovy requires in-person health monitoring that may be difficult for telehealth models. Side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and potential rare risks like pancreatitis and thyroid tumors need close oversight.
- Experts worry about improper prescribing or use of these potent medications without adequate medical evaluation and counseling on lifestyle changes needed for lasting weight management.
- There are questions about whether the companies’ business models incentivize prescribing the in-demand, expensive drugs too broadly just to drive revenue.
However, Hims & Hers argue their model increases access to effective weight loss treatments with ongoing virtual care from physicians. They have safeguards like requiring BMI over 30 and medical history reviews.
The companies say they can help address the obesity epidemic by removing barriers many face in getting these medications from traditional in-person health care visits.
The startups have raised hundreds of millions, reflecting investor enthusiasm. But experts debate whether their approach with minimal oversight undermines public health or expands much-needed obesity care access.
