Why Peptides Could Become More Accessible in the U.S.

Key takeaways

Measles cases in the U.S. have exceeded 2,300 this year, reaching a 30-year high, largely due to lower vaccination rates.
An FDA advisory panel recommends lifting restrictions on six peptides, potentially increasing safe and legal access for consumers interested in health and anti-aging enhancements.
New tariffs targeting countries alleged to use forced labor are now in effect, based on legal provisions that could lead to further trade disputes and tariffs, especially against China and the EU.
The ICC faces internal upheaval with the removal of its chief prosecutor, highlighting challenges within international legal institutions.
Market volatility persisted after a turbulent week, with notable movements in oil prices and stock indexes.

Summary

Introduction and Key Headlines

This section introduces the main headlines of the day, including a three-decade high in measles cases in the U.S., progress on peptides regulation, and ongoing trade tensions. The host sets the stage by highlighting the critical focus of the episode on health, regulation, and trade issues.

Measles Outbreak in the U.S.

The CDC reports over 2,300 measles cases so far this year, surpassing last year’s total. The increase is linked to declining vaccination rates and outbreaks in specific states like Utah and South Carolina. The resurgence underscores concerns about public health and vaccine coverage.

Regulatory Developments on Peptides

An FDA advisory panel favors lifting restrictions on six of seven peptides, promising increased access via prescriptions and legal compounding facilities. Peptides, popular for body optimization and anti-aging, are mostly used off-label and obtained through the gray market. The discussion explores potential safety, efficacy, and regulatory implications.

Trade and Tariff Policies

The episode covers new tariffs aimed at countering forced labor, with a focus on Section 301 of the Trade Act, and discusses President Trump’s threats to impose additional tariffs on the EU. It explains the legal basis, the potential for future tariffs, and the geopolitical context, including the removal of ICC Chief Prosecutor Khan amidst allegations and international tensions.

Market and Business Updates

Key updates include delays in the Paramount-Warner Bros Discovery merger due to legal challenges, Verizon’s mixed earnings with a focus on AI, American Express’s revenue growth, and market movements. Oil prices have declined, and stock indexes show mixed results after a volatile week.

Legal and International Issues

The episode reports the ousting of ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan amid serious allegations, the court’s internal turmoil, and international legal conflicts. Additionally, the U.S. government’s stance on the ICC and the implications for international justice are discussed.

Show notes

P.M. Edition for July 24. Today an FDA committee voted to increase access to six of seven peptides. Those are substances that haven’t undergone regulatory approval, but they’re promoted on social media and promise physical transformations like better skin. We hear from WSJ health and wellness reporter Alex Janin about what the vote means and whether it paves the way for a peptide gold rush. Plus, new tariffs went into effect today intended to combat forced labor, and President Trump also threatened new tariffs on the European Union. Journal trade and economic policy reporter Gavin Bade discusses the future of President Trump’s tariff agenda. And measles cases in the U.S. this year have already surpassed last year’s number, reaching a three-decade high. Alex Ossola hosts.

And for more on peptides, listen to our What’s News Sunday episode.

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