Behind the Bastards cover image

Behind the Bastards

Part One: The Vioxx Scandal: How Big Pharma Killed More Americans Than Vietnam

Dec 10, 2024
Dr. Kaveh Hoda, a healthcare expert and medical doctor, delves into the scandal surrounding Vioxx, revealing how Merck knowingly released a drug that led to fatal heart attacks. The discussion uncovers the troubling history of Big Pharma prioritizing profits over patient safety. They explore the rushed development of Vioxx, the marketing tactics that obscured its risks, and the overall shift in societal trust towards pharmaceutical companies. Hoda's insights highlight the ethical dilemmas in drug promotion and the implications for public health.
57:44

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Vioxx's introduction by Merck, despite known risks, marks a critical moment reflecting broader issues of corporate greed and public health safety.
  • The manipulation of clinical trials and marketing ethics surrounding Vioxx reveal deep-seated flaws in the pharmaceutical approval process.

Deep dives

The Placebo Effect and Personal Beliefs in Health

Ginger is discussed as a personal health staple, likened to a 'magic' boost despite its scientifically unsupported benefits. The conversation emphasizes the placebo effect, showcasing how a belief in a supplement's efficacy can yield tangible improvements in one's well-being. The speaker admits to taking certain doctor-recommended supplements for specific health reasons, illustrating the nuanced view of supplements and their varied impacts on individuals. In a world rife with unverified health claims, personal anecdotes often overshadow scientific evidence, underlining the complexity of individual health experiences.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode