Scott Alexander examines the complexities of abolishing the FDA and proposes more practical alternatives to increase medical innovation while maintaining safeguards. Longer summary

Scott Alexander discusses the challenges of abolishing the FDA, a popular libertarian idea. He explores various issues that would arise, such as the fate of prescription medications, drug contamination inspections, and the potential for exploitation by unethical companies. The post then proposes two more practical alternatives to complete FDA abolition: legalizing artificial supplements and creating an 'experimental drug' category. These suggestions aim to increase medical innovation and access while maintaining some safeguards. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander evaluates silexan, a lavender-based anxiety supplement, finding promising but potentially biased evidence, and recommends cautious trial use. Longer summary

Scott Alexander reviews the evidence for silexan, a lavender-derived supplement claimed to be highly effective for anxiety. He examines the studies, noting that most are by one researcher with conflicts of interest, but finds the methodology generally sound. He also considers circumstantial evidence, including animal studies and anecdotal reports. While cautioning about the lack of independent research, Scott concludes that silexan is worth trying due to its low risk and potential benefits, and predicts a 50% chance it will prove as effective as SSRIs for anxiety in future independent studies. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander examines and expresses skepticism about a theory that attributes high-dose melatonin supplements to patent avoidance, while reflecting on the challenges of evaluating such claims. Longer summary

Scott Alexander discusses a theory about why melatonin supplements are often sold in doses much higher than recommended. The theory, proposed by Dr. Richard Wurtman, suggests that supplement manufacturers used higher doses to avoid paying royalties on a patent for lower doses. Scott expresses skepticism about this explanation, citing reasons such as the unusualness of patenting only up to a certain dose and the fact that many supplements are sold in high doses. He also notes that some companies do sell melatonin at the recommended dose without legal issues. Scott reflects on the challenges of evaluating such claims, balancing expert knowledge against rational skepticism. An update clarifies that the patent likely influenced initial supplement production but has since expired, though high-dose traditions persist. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander offers various strategies for obtaining affordable mental health care and medication in the US, including discount programs, therapy alternatives, and supplement options. Longer summary

This post provides detailed advice on how to access mental health care and medication on a budget in the US. Scott outlines various strategies for obtaining prescription medications at lower costs, including using discount websites, pill splitting, and patient assistance programs. He also discusses affordable therapy options and supplement alternatives to prescription drugs. The post is aimed at those who don't qualify for government assistance and includes both legal and potentially legal methods. Scott emphasizes that this is not medical advice and should be used at one's own risk. Shorter summary