Scott Alexander examines how compounding pharmacies are producing cheaper versions of GLP-1 agonist drugs, exploring the economics, safety, and future implications of this practice. Longer summary

Scott Alexander discusses the 'compounding loophole' that allows compounding pharmacies to produce cheaper versions of GLP-1 agonist drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic). He explains how these pharmacies operate, the cost differences, safety concerns, and potential future implications. The post covers the legal basis for this practice during drug shortages, the impact on drug manufacturers like Novo Nordisk, and speculates on what might happen when the shortage ends. Scott also touches on the broader implications for drug pricing and availability. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander responds to comments on his post about new telemedicine regulations, addressing various concerns and criticisms raised by readers. Longer summary

Scott Alexander summarizes and responds to various comments on his original post about new telemedicine regulations. He addresses concerns about drug addiction, debates the effectiveness of telemedicine compared to in-person care, discusses the issue of 'pill mills', clarifies his analogy about blind people accessing Braille, responds to criticism of his characterization of Christian doctors, examines which part of the government is responsible for the regulations, and looks at how other countries handle telemedicine prescriptions. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander criticizes new DEA regulations that restrict telemedicine prescriptions for controlled substances, arguing they will harm patients and legitimate practices while failing to prevent abuse. Longer summary

Scott Alexander criticizes new DEA regulations that make it harder for telemedicine doctors to prescribe controlled substances. As a telepsychiatrist, he explains how these rules will negatively impact his practice and patients, especially those who rely on controlled substances for conditions like ADHD or anxiety. He argues that the new regulations, while intended to prevent overprescribing, will mainly create inconvenience for legitimate practitioners and patients while doing little to stop actual abusers. Scott outlines the loopholes in the law and how they highlight its absurdity, predicting that these rules will make telemedicine less accessible and effective in the long run. Shorter summary