Article Summary
In Episode 42 of Hims House, Empower Pharmacy founder and CEO Shaun Noorian sits down with Jonathan Stern and Patrick Lester to talk about the role of compounding in today’s healthcare system. The conversation covers recent discussions around GLP-1s, the differences between 503A and 503B facilities, and the importance of compliance in patient care. It also explores how current legal and policy debates may influence the future of access and affordability.Healthcare is evolving quickly, and compounding pharmacies are often at the center of the conversation. In this episode of Hims House, Empower Pharmacy CEO Shaun Noorian joins the hosts Jonathan Stern and Patrick Lester to discuss how compounding fits into today’s landscape. From GLP-1 medications and compliance questions to the role of personalized therapies in the future of care, the conversation offers a timely look at the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry.
GLP-1 Rumors and Regulations
Early in the episode, the hosts ask about online speculation that 503B outsourcing facilities are ramping up GLP-1 production. Noorian clarifies that under federal law, 503Bs can only compound these medications during an FDA-declared shortage. While some chatter suggests otherwise, much of it appears to stem from misinterpretation or marketing confusion.
His key point is that compliant compounding pharmacies operate under clear, established rules and should not be confused with unregulated entities that do not follow the same standards.
The Mission of Empower Pharmacy
Empower is one of the largest compounding pharmacies in the nation, operating both a 503A compounding facility and an FDA-registered 503B outsourcing facility. Noorian explains that Empower was founded to expand access to personalized medicine at scale, combining quality, compliance, and advanced manufacturing practices.
This mission has positioned Empower at the center of some of the industry’s biggest discussions:
- Access to personalized medicine
- The role of compounding pharmacies in helping make medications more affordable
- How evolving policies and the broader pharmaceutical landscape may shape patient care
Policy, Pricing, and the New Administration
With recent leadership changes at HHS and the FDA, the hosts ask about what new directions may mean for compounding. Noorian notes that compounding has long played a role in filling care gaps when traditional options are limited. Discussions around pricing, executive orders, and Most Favored Nation policies highlight how evolving regulations may influence patient access and provider choice.
“Our mission is simple: restore the relationship between patient and provider by enabling treatments that meet individual needs, not one-size-fits-all formulations.” – Shaun Noorian, CEO of Empower Pharmacy
Looking Ahead: Hormones, Peptides, Longevity, and Sleep
Beyond GLP-1s, the episode explores areas where compounding may play a role in the future. Hormone therapy, specific peptides, longevity approaches, and sleep support are highlighted as spaces where personalized care is receiving greater attention.
Why You Should Listen
This episode of Hims House provides a thoughtful discussion on the current and future role of compounding. From GLP-1s and legal debates to new opportunities in personalized medicine, Noorian’s perspective offers insight into how compounding fits within the broader healthcare system.
