BioCentury
ARTICLE | Editor's Commentary

Compounded Wegovy is more than a scam — it threatens innovation

FDA must prevent mass compounding of approved drugs to protect patients and investment in innovative drugs

February 7, 2026 12:28 AM UTC

The Feb. 5 announcement by Hims & Hers Health that it is launching a compounded oral version of semaglutide is not only a competitive jab at Novo Nordisk. It is an assault on the biopharma industry.

The announcement has received an appropriate response. HHS General Counsel Mike Stuart announced Friday that Hims & Hers Inc. (NYSE:HIMS) had been referred to the Department of Justice for investigation of potential violations of the “Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and applicable Title 18 provisions.” That last bit means federal criminal offenses, like fraud.  ...