Ericka L. Adler, J.D., a shareholder and manager of the health care group at Roetzel & Andress, joins the show to discuss the hidden risks of prescribing GLP-1 medications — like semaglutide and tirzepatide — that physicians need to know, from ensuring informed consent to navigating long-term safety data.
Music Credits:
After Hours by Yigit Atilla - stock.adobe.com
Relaxing Lounge by Classy Call me Man - stock.adobe.com
COCKTAIL by Mythical Audio - stock.adobe.com
Editor's note: Episode timestamps and transcript produced using AI tools.
**Introduction and Overview (00:00:00)**
Brief mention of compliance issues and the evolving legal landscape for prescribing GLP-1 drugs.
**Podcast Introduction (00:00:29)**
Host introduces the episode, speakers, and main topics: legal risks, informed consent, and safety data for GLP-1 drugs.

**Guest Introduction (00:01:05)**
Introduction of EricKa Adler and the focus on GLP-1 drug risks.

**Liability Risks for Prescribing GLP-1 Drugs (00:01:19)**
Discussion of primary legal risks, compliance with state and federal laws, and proper office setup.

**Off-Label Use Legal Concerns (00:02:49)**
Explains legal concerns with off-label prescribing and how to mitigate risks through documentation and informed consent.

**Informed Consent Specifics for GLP-1 Drugs (00:05:53)**
Importance of tailored, robust informed consent forms for GLP-1 drugs, especially for off-label use.

**Compounded Versions and Legal Risks (00:07:57)**
Legal risks of prescribing compounded GLP-1 drugs, including contamination, misbranding, and advertising issues.

**Insurance Denials and Prior Authorizations (00:11:26)**
Challenges with insurance coverage, prior authorizations, and evolving insurer policies for GLP-1 prescriptions.

**Telemedicine and Prescribing GLP-1 Drugs (00:14:10)**
Legal risks and compliance requirements for prescribing GLP-1 drugs via telemedicine, including licensure and administration rules.

**Long-Term Safety and Liability Concerns (00:16:59)**
Emerging liability concerns regarding long-term safety and adverse effects, and the importance of malpractice coverage.

**Financial Relationships with Pharmaceutical Companies (00:20:10)**
Legal and ethical concerns for physicians with financial ties to GLP-1 drug manufacturers, including anti-kickback laws.

**Regulatory Changes and Evolving Landscape (00:21:40)**
Recent and anticipated legal or regulatory changes, state vs. federal oversight, and the need for ongoing compliance.

**Conclusion and Closing Remarks (00:25:02)**
Thanking the guest, closing the episode, and providing subscription information.