Peptides, Profits, and the Future of Medicine—What’s Really Happening

Episode 15 | Fertility and Other F WordsIn this episode of Fertility and Other F Words, Dr. Amy Pearlman and Dr. Larry Lipshultz sit down with Brigham Buhler to unpack one of the most talked-about (and controversial) topics in modern medicine: peptides, and the healthcare system surrounding them.Brigham is a healthcare entrepreneur on a mission to challenge and rebuild what he sees as a fundamentally broken medical system. He is the founder and CEO of Ways2Well, a functional and regenerative medicine clinic, and the owner of ReviveRx Pharmacy, where he is working to create more transparent, patient-centered models of care.With firsthand experience navigating pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), insurance companies, and regulatory frameworks, Brigham offers an insider perspective on how the system often works against patients and what it would take to fix it. He has become a vocal advocate for exposing the realities of corporate-driven healthcare and pushing for solutions rooted in prevention, innovation, and patient empowerment.You may also recognize him from The Joe Rogan Experience, where he shared his perspective on the future of medicine and the urgent need for change.In this episode, we cover:Why peptides are gaining traction outside of traditional medicineBarriers to adoption within the current healthcare systemThe role of PBMs, insurance, and pharmacy infrastructure in drug pricingCommon misconceptions around compounded vs FDA-approved therapiesHow to evaluate peptide sourcing, quality, and safetyWhat a responsible, medically guided peptide program should look likeThe risks of the growing DIY peptide trendKey takeaways:The current healthcare system often prioritizes treatment over prevention, creating misaligned incentivesDrug pricing is heavily influenced by intermediaries, making costs less transparent to patientsCompounding pharmacies can improve access and affordability, but require proper oversightPeptides represent a growing area of interest, but education and quality control are criticalPatients need guidance to safely navigate an increasingly complex and decentralized landscapeThis episode is a candid, behind-the-scenes look at healthcare, innovation, and the future of patient-driven medicine.Notice: The Fertility and Other F Words webcast and YouTube channel are intended for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute the practice of medicine nor do they provide medical advice or create a doctor–patient relationship. Use of the information provided through this webcast, YouTube channel, or any linked materials is at the listener’s/viewer’s own risk. The content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Listeners/viewers should never disregard or delay seeking medical advice for any health condition and are strongly encouraged to consult their own qualified health care professional with any questions or concerns.All content from the Fertility and Other F Words webcast is the property of PODCAST WITH DRS. AMY AND LARRY LLC.Listeners and viewers may not use, distribute, re-distribute, reproduce, alter, or edit any portion of this content without the express written permission of the webcast owners.The views and opinions expressed in this webcast are those of Drs. Amy Pearlman and Larry Lipshultz and do not reflect the official positions or responsibilities of Prime Institute, Baylor College of Medicine, or any affiliated institutions.