The Preventable Peptide Crisis: Navigating GLP-1s and the Gray Market

Peter Pitts, President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, discusses the implications of GLP-1 weight loss treatments, healthcare regulation, and consumer advocacy in a recent episode of the Health Policy Podcast. The conversation addresses obesity management and the risks associated with unregulated access to these medications.

WASHINGTON — October 8, 2026 — Peter Pitts, President of the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, joined the Health Policy Podcast to discuss the growing popularity of GLP-1 weight loss treatments and the associated risks of unregulated access. The episode explores the significance of healthcare regulation and consumer advocacy in obesity management.

Pitts emphasizes the importance of using GLP-1s in conjunction with diet and exercise, stating, "GLP-1s are indicated to be used in combination with diet and exercise." He warns against the dangers of circumventing medical advice and the potential health risks of using unapproved medications. "The most important consequence is unintended, very negative health consequences for the people that are trying to circumvent the system," he said.

The discussion highlights the prevalence of counterfeit and unapproved drugs in the market, which can lead to serious health issues. Pitts cautions consumers, saying, "Buyer beware. Caveat emptor, you know, is bad pharmaceutical policy." He stresses the need for proper regulatory oversight to ensure the safety and efficacy of weight loss treatments.

The Center for Medicine in the Public Interest is a public policy institute focused on promoting smart regulatory policies that encourage innovation and enhance public understanding of the healthcare system.

About the Health Policy Podcast

The Health Policy Podcast focuses on issues related to energy, infrastructure, policy, and economic growth, providing insights from experts in the field to inform listeners on pressing health policy matters.