Planet Money discusses the economics of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, focusing on how high demand and supply shortages have created a parallel market of compounded copycats. The episode explores the legal loophole that allows compounding pharmacies to produce these drugs during shortages, the role of telehealth companies in marketing them, and the sourcing of active ingredients from overseas, mainly China. It also addresses the regulatory differences and potential risks associated with these compounded drugs, as well as the brand name manufacturers' attempts to compete. The story of "Phil," a chemistry teacher, illustrates the personal impact of these market dynamics, as he turns to ordering raw ingredients online to afford his medication, highlighting the risks and the broader implications for the pharmaceutical industry.
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