The hottest Pharmaceuticals Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Science Topics
Popular Rationalism 1367 implied HN points 01 Nov 24
  1. A Trump win could force the Democratic Party to rethink its ties with the pharmaceutical industry. This may lead to more transparency and accountability in health policies.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is seen as a potential leader who could push for a health agenda focused on questioning the status quo and prioritizing public health over profit.
  3. The public is becoming more aware of vaccine safety issues, and this awareness may change how health policies are formed and implemented in the future.
Popular Rationalism 455 implied HN points 29 Oct 24
  1. Ensitrelvir, also known as Xocova, is a new antiviral pill that is 30 times more effective than a placebo. It was developed by a Japanese company called Shionogi & Co., which worked closely with researchers.
  2. This medication targets a key enzyme the virus needs to replicate, making it effective against COVID-19 symptoms, especially those caused by Omicron variants. It has shown a strong safety profile and fewer side effects compared to some other treatments.
  3. Xocova is easier to take than some alternatives because it requires only a once-daily dose and has fewer interactions with other medications. This makes it a more convenient option for many patients.
Bailiwick News 3269 implied HN points 16 Oct 24
  1. Vaccines and many biological products can cause allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. This means they can intentionally harm people while claiming to protect them.
  2. There are laws that make it hard to hold companies accountable for the negative effects of vaccines. These laws allow harmful practices to continue under the guise of vaccination programs.
  3. Congress is more focused on how effective these vaccines are at causing harm, rather than their safety. This reflects a deeper concern about managing public health costs rather than protecting individuals.
Unreported Truths 64 implied HN points 02 Dec 24
  1. Dr. Scott Gottlieb is openly opposing Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for a position in the Trump cabinet because he fears Kennedy would disrupt the current healthcare system. Many believe Big Pharma is worried about losing its grip on health policies if Kennedy gets into power.
  2. Gottlieb has a long history of connections with pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer, which raises concerns about conflicts of interest. This background makes people skeptical about his motives and the influence of corporate interests in health decisions.
  3. Kennedy is seen by some as someone who could push for necessary changes in the healthcare system, while Gottlieb represents the status quo that many believe is broken and costly. The debate reflects ongoing frustrations with how healthcare is managed in the U.S.
Faster, Please! 1553 implied HN points 30 Oct 24
  1. GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy could change the way we treat obesity and have a huge positive impact on health. They work by helping individuals lose weight and may also lower the risk of serious diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's.
  2. These medications could boost the US economy significantly. Estimates suggest that by improving health and productivity, they might help increase the GDP by about 0.5 to 1 percent in rich countries.
  3. The overall benefits of health innovations, including GLP-1 drugs, aren't fully captured in traditional economic measures. They can lead to a better quality of life and longer life expectancy, which is valuable beyond just the numbers.
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Trevor Klee’s Newsletter 895 implied HN points 01 Nov 24
  1. The good or bad nature of drugs really depends on what you're trying to achieve with them. It's important to consider the purpose behind using any drug.
  2. Different drugs can have different effects. For example, psychedelics can be helpful for depression but dangerous for someone who is unstable. It's all about context.
  3. Drugs should be viewed as tools that work in specific ways. We need to determine if those effects match what we want for our health or goals.
Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts 189 implied HN points 23 Nov 24
  1. RFK Jr. wants to fight corruption in medicine, especially the money doctors take from pharmaceutical companies. It's important to have honest practices to benefit patients.
  2. A proposed change is to limit the number of doctors in advisory groups who have received money from drug companies. This could start at no more than 60% in 2025 and end with 0% by 2028.
  3. By having fewer conflicts of interest, doctors might focus more on what's best for patients rather than just following drug company interests. This could lead to better healthcare decisions.
Unreported Truths 123 implied HN points 26 Nov 24
  1. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. should end the CDC's recommendation for COVID mRNA vaccines for children and teens once he is confirmed as HHS secretary.
  2. There are serious health concerns with these vaccines in young people, including potential for myocarditis and other severe side effects.
  3. The CDC's current stance is seen as outdated and driven by ideology rather than science, so a shift in public health policy is needed.
Who is Robert Malone 14 implied HN points 25 Nov 24
  1. Regulatory capture means that big companies can influence government agencies to protect their interests instead of the public's. This often leads to policies that aren't in the best interest of consumers.
  2. The FDA and other agencies can make mistakes that harm people, and they often lack accountability. Without competition or choice, these agencies might not prioritize public safety.
  3. To truly improve healthcare regulations, we might need to rethink the role of government agencies altogether. Some suggest that eliminating these agencies could make the market safer and more effective for everyone.
Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts 176 implied HN points 13 Nov 24
  1. RFK Jr. could be pushed out of the healthcare conversation because he is anti-corporation. Many pharmaceutical companies might not want him involved due to his stance.
  2. He wants to change how vaccine makers are protected from lawsuits, suggesting they should face accountability like other drug companies. This could lead to better safety practices in vaccines.
  3. The current healthcare system is seen as corrupt and ineffective. There's a need for deeper reforms and better studies to ensure drug and vaccine safety.
Vinay Prasad's Observations and Thoughts 40 implied HN points 24 Nov 24
  1. There is a free lecture in San Diego about reading trials. It's a great opportunity for anyone wanting to learn how to understand trial results.
  2. The lecture is unique because it is not funded by pharmaceutical companies. This might give a more unbiased view on the information being discussed.
  3. Attending this lecture could help people become more knowledgeable about medical studies. It's a chance to ask questions and get clarity on trial data.
The Century of Biology 354 implied HN points 20 Oct 24
  1. Nimbus Therapeutics uses a unique hub-and-spoke model to develop drugs. This lets them separate the main company from individual drug projects, so they can sell successful drugs while keeping the main business intact.
  2. The company focuses on computational drug discovery to make the process faster and cheaper. By using advanced technology, they can predict which drugs might succeed before doing expensive experiments.
  3. Nimbus has successfully sold several drug assets, demonstrating the effectiveness of their model. They show that a biotech can grow and make money while being flexible and innovative.
Who is Robert Malone 20 implied HN points 14 Nov 24
  1. Many Americans are suffering from serious health issues, with a high number living with chronic illnesses. This shows that despite advances in healthcare, people's health is getting worse.
  2. The current medical system heavily favors pharmaceutical companies over patient care. This creates a cycle where dangerous drugs can be approved while underlying health problems are ignored.
  3. Environmental factors, like toxins in food and other products, are major contributors to health issues. A reevaluation of health policies and standards is needed to protect people's well-being.
Maryanne Demasi, reports 2692 implied HN points 22 Jan 24
  1. A former TGA boss has been appointed to the board of Medicines Australia to advance mRNA technology in Australia.
  2. John Skerritt, previously with TGA, reflects on his achievements in speeding up drug approvals during his time there.
  3. Concerns are raised about the 'revolving door' practice where agency officials end up working for industries they once regulated.
COVID Intel - by Dr.William Makis 2731 implied HN points 17 Jan 24
  1. Johnson & Johnson is acquiring a $2 billion drug developer to focus on treating aggressive cancers.
  2. This acquisition uses technology similar to Pfizer's $43 billion purchase of Seagen.
  3. Both companies are aiming to address the anticipated increase in cancer cases by 2025.
Something to Consider 239 implied HN points 01 Jul 24
  1. Medicare price caps could lower investment in new drugs, as they cut profits for pharmaceutical companies. Less investment might mean fewer new medicines in the future.
  2. Reducing drug prices could result in significant loss of life, as fewer new drugs mean fewer treatments for diseases. This effect is not just for the U.S., but could impact people globally.
  3. Instead of cutting prices, the focus should be on finding ways to help people afford medications. It's important to invest in pharmaceuticals to save lives rather than trying to cut costs at the expense of future health advancements.
AND Magazine 1061 implied HN points 15 Jan 24
  1. Lab leaks and mishaps involving dangerous viruses are increasing worldwide post COVID-19 pandemic.
  2. Scientists are creating highly lethal viruses through experiments, raising concerns about potential future pandemics.
  3. There is a focus on preparing for 'Disease X' which may lead to profit-making opportunities and increased restrictions.
HEALTH CARE un-covered 579 implied HN points 20 Mar 24
  1. Big Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) like UnitedHealth and Cigna are pushing independent pharmacies out of business. They drop reimbursement rates, making it harder for these smaller pharmacies to survive.
  2. The financial troubles for independent pharmacies are linked to complex fees and lack of transparency from PBMs. Many pharmacies are struggling with fees that keep rising unexpectedly.
  3. Without independent pharmacies, people might face longer waits for medications and less personalized care. It's important for lawmakers to step in and make changes to support these community pharmacies.
Trevor Klee’s Newsletter 1119 implied HN points 05 Feb 24
  1. Karuna Therapeutics achieved a $14 billion sale through drug repurposing.
  2. Drug repurposing can be a highly lucrative business without requiring excessive brilliance or luck.
  3. VCs often prioritize hype and platform-based drug development over drug repurposing success stories.
Break Free with Karen Hunt 1395 implied HN points 06 May 23
  1. Our leaders often benefit from wars without considering the consequences for ordinary citizens.
  2. Big Pharma's greed for profits drives the creation of drugs that may not address the root causes of diseases.
  3. People should focus on healthy habits instead of relying solely on medications for their well-being.
Something to Consider 79 implied HN points 27 Jul 24
  1. Patents help inventors protect their ideas, but they alone can't ensure fair profits from innovations. We need more support to make sure inventors get what they deserve.
  2. In a monopoly, the price of goods reflects production costs, not research costs. This can lead to less innovation if prices don't encourage investment.
  3. To encourage more drug discoveries, we might need to pay higher prices or create subsidies and prizes for medical breakthroughs. It’s a tough choice, but necessary for progress.
Weight and Healthcare 1078 implied HN points 09 Aug 23
  1. Novo Nordisk released a press release touting study results that were not peer-reviewed or published, raising ethical concerns.
  2. The study population in the trial for the weight loss drug Wegovy was limited to specific criteria, excluding certain groups for evaluation of benefits and risks.
  3. The publicity stunt around the drug's benefits showcases the pharmaceutical company's marketing tactics that may manipulate perceptions and stock prices.
The Dossier 490 implied HN points 06 Mar 24
  1. 40 Covid vaccine candidates worldwide were claimed to be highly effective, but none of them actually worked.
  2. Pharmaceutical companies and governments globally falsely advertised Covid vaccines as the ultimate protection.
  3. The Covid-19 vaccine situation highlights the importance of scrutinizing statistics and not letting a crisis be exploited.
The Microdose 884 implied HN points 08 May 23
  1. Antidepressants have evolved over time, impacting societal views and treatments of depression.
  2. There is a historical pattern of seeking quick-fix solutions for mental health issues through medication.
  3. Concerns exist about the profit-centered approach to mental health treatments, including the potential harms and biases in clinical trials.
Invariant 491 implied HN points 07 Jan 24
  1. Quaking aspens have a unique way of growing, with all trees in a colony connected as part of the same single organism.
  2. Logista, a Spanish distribution company, is diversifying away from tobacco distribution and focusing more on next-generation nicotine products and pharmaceutical distribution.
  3. Logista is strategically growing through acquisitions, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, aiming for inorganic growth to expand its reach.
Trevor Klee’s Newsletter 373 implied HN points 29 Feb 24
  1. Success in biotech often involves licensing and developing existing molecules, rather than creating completely new ones.
  2. To thrive in biotech, it's crucial to strategically select candidates and navigate clinical trials efficiently with the available resources.
  3. Viking Therapeutics' success was built on wisely choosing profitable indications, selecting the right molecules, and executing their development program effectively.
The Dossier 367 implied HN points 29 Feb 24
  1. The CDC has green-lighted a ninth Covid mRNA shot for those following the official vaccination schedule, totaling nine doses within three years.
  2. The latest shot targets a variant that no longer exists, raising questions about continued vaccinations against obsolete threats.
  3. Pharmaceutical companies may be promoting additional shots under the guise of protection against new variants, despite the variants not being present during the shot's creation.
Weight and Healthcare 738 implied HN points 15 Mar 23
  1. Weight Watchers is expanding their model by adding prescription drugs, showing a pattern of prioritizing profits over people's well-being.
  2. Weight Watchers acquired Sequence, a telehealth company prescribing weight loss drugs with risky side effects and questionable efficacy.
  3. The company's approach includes misleading weight loss claims, lack of transparency, and a focus on short-term financial gains rather than long-term health.
Weight and Healthcare 639 implied HN points 29 Mar 23
  1. Novo Nordisk faced consequences for deceptive marketing tactics such as using astroturf organizations and promoting their drugs without disclosing ties.
  2. The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry suspended Novo Nordisk for breaching their code of practice related to a promotional course and inducing healthcare professionals to prescribe their drug.
  3. Novo Nordisk's appeal for the breach was unsuccessful, leading to public reprimand for failings and suspension for two years from ABPI membership.
HEALTH CARE un-covered 479 implied HN points 23 Oct 23
  1. Many Americans are struggling to afford their medication costs at the pharmacy, which is forcing them to leave without the medicines they need.
  2. Big insurance companies have gained too much control over drug prices, causing many patients to pay more at the counter while receiving less help from their insurance.
  3. Bipartisan action is happening in Congress to reform pharmacy benefit managers, with bills aiming to lower out-of-pocket costs for patients and increase price transparency.
HEALTH CARE un-covered 179 implied HN points 14 Mar 24
  1. Legislators in Washington want to change how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) operate because many think their practices are hurting patients and pharmacies.
  2. There is support from both political parties to reform PBMs, but lobbyists are trying to stop these changes to protect profit margins.
  3. Pharmacists and businesses need to be aware of PBM practices and take action now, as reforms could save them a lot of money and make medications more affordable.
HEALTH CARE un-covered 679 implied HN points 15 May 23
  1. Congress is looking into how Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) operate. They want to make sure these companies are not overcharging people for their medications.
  2. PBMs and insurance companies are causing more financial strain on patients by raising out-of-pocket costs. Many people are struggling to afford their medications because deductibles have doubled over the past decade.
  3. There are new bills being proposed to increase transparency and reform PBM practices. This could help ensure that savings from drug manufacturers are passed on to patients.
Outspoken with Dr Naomi Wolf 10 implied HN points 17 Oct 24
  1. A large group of doctors and scientists studied 450,000 pages of Pfizer's documents, uncovering serious issues with their COVID vaccine trials. They found that Pfizer may have harmed a lot of people, especially regarding reproductive health.
  2. Many adverse effects from the vaccine were reported, including severe health problems and deaths that were not fully disclosed by Pfizer. This lack of transparency raised serious concerns about the vaccine's safety.
  3. The collective efforts of these volunteers led to important findings being published, which ultimately helped inform the public and pushed back against vaccine mandates and misinformation.
Weight and Healthcare 579 implied HN points 04 Feb 23
  1. Doctors' education can be heavily influenced by the pharmaceutical industry, leading to potential biases in medical practices and treatments.
  2. Some educational conferences and seminars for doctors may actually be marketing events by pharmaceutical companies, promoting certain medications or treatments.
  3. It's crucial for doctors to be aware of potential conflicts of interest and maintain objectivity in their approach to patient care, especially in fields like weight management and diabetes.
The DisInformation Chronicle 760 implied HN points 21 May 23
  1. Social media companies censor 'true content' on vaccines in line with government and pharma interests
  2. Big Pharma spends millions on social media ads while platforms regulate vaccine 'misinformation'
  3. There's a conflict in regulating pharma 'misinformation' on social media while Pharma is a major advertising client
HEALTH CARE un-covered 519 implied HN points 20 Jun 23
  1. Big health insurers are using a group called PCMA to run ads in Washington to protect their profits in the pharmacy supply chain. They want everyone to think they're on the side of patients.
  2. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are making more money than traditional health insurance companies. They decide which medications people can access and how much they have to pay.
  3. The ads you're seeing about PBMs being beneficial are actually paid for by the insurers, meaning the costs are coming from the money you pay in premiums and taxes.
DrV’s Newsletter, Notes, Essays, Articles, Videos, and Book Chapters 176 implied HN points 27 Jan 24
  1. Two presidential candidates who challenged pharma-globalist power were eliminated from the race in 2024.
  2. The remaining major candidates from both parties supported pandemic measures that led to a significant increase in deaths and costs for the nation.
  3. The influence of drug companies in politics, education, and media remains significant, impacting American elections.