Hims’ recent Super Bowl advertisement has ignited controversy, with critics labeling it as “irresponsible”. The ad takes direct aim at the weight loss industry, accusing it of keeping overweight Americans “sick and stuck,” and criticizing drugmakers for pricing medications “for profits, not patients.” This is a clear reference to the costly GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy and Zepbound.
Hims positions itself as the solution, marketing its compounded versions of these drugs. These versions are advertised as “affordable, doctor-trusted, and formulated in the USA.” However, these compounded drugs have not received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Hims and the compounding industry are currently in a legal battle with pharmaceutical companies regarding their ongoing ability to sell these copies.
Furthermore, because the ad is not technically a pharmaceutical advertisement, Hims is not required to fully disclose the potential side effects and contraindications associated with the medications.
Several observers voiced their shock and concern to STAT’s Katie Palmer, with many describing the advertisement’s claims as “irresponsible.”
