The Hollow Men of Hims

Article’s Writing Style and Authenticity

• Many found the prose overwrought, metaphor-laden, and “axe-grinding,” to the point that it obscures the underlying criticism.
• Others enjoyed the humor and personality as a break from dry or obviously AI-written content.
• Several commenters suspected it is AI-assisted (e.g., tracking parameters like utm_source=chatgpt.com, heavy em-dash and metaphor use), but most agreed that origin matters less than accuracy and editing.

Compounded Drugs, Legality, and Safety

• The piece’s framing of compounded semaglutide as “illegitimate Chinese knockoffs” drew pushback for lack of concrete evidence of harm and for leaning on reader prejudice.
• Some note that GLP‑1 compounding is widespread, uses FDA‑inspected 503B pharmacies, and is driven by Novo’s very high prices.
• Others stress that compounded versions may use different, non‑approved formulations, with unclear supply chains and quality; compounding pharmacies are described by some as “shady,” especially in under‑regulated states.
• There is no consensus on the safety of Hims’ specific products; critics demand evidence of testing and oversight, supporters point out no known scandals.

Telehealth UX vs Traditional Healthcare

• A dominant theme is that Hims exists because mainstream US healthcare is slow, paternalistic, opaque, and expensive: weeks‑to‑months waits, high visit costs, insurance denials, confusing billing.
• Many see algorithmic, questionnaire‑based prescribing as adequate for a large fraction of routine care, and significantly better UX than “five minutes and a lecture” in a clinic.
• Others share worrying anecdotes (e.g., being coached to change answers to qualify for meds) as evidence this is not real medical care.

Autonomy, Risk, and OTC Attitudes

• A sizable contingent wants ED drugs, GLP‑1s, and even some antibiotics to be effectively OTC, arguing for bodily autonomy and adult responsibility.
• Opponents emphasize externalities (antibiotic resistance), unknowns with long‑term GLP‑1 use, and the need for gatekeeping for safety and equity.

Exploitation and Vulnerable Populations

• One line of discussion stresses that HN readers underestimate how vulnerable, low‑literacy, chronically stressed people can be systematically exploited by slick DTC health marketing.
• Others counter that legacy hospitals, PBMs, and pharma already exploit these same populations far more aggressively and at much larger financial scale.

Net View of Hims

• Sentiment is mixed but tilts toward: “dubious tactics, real demand.”
• Critics focus on dark patterns (subscription pauses, cancellation friction), regulatory arbitrage, and thin medical oversight.
• Supporters argue Hims and similar firms are rational responses to a broken system, often cheaper and far more convenient than “legit” channels, and in practice deliver drugs that work for many users.