Latest news with #Cosentyx
Associated Press
3 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Access Barriers Hamper Early Line Adoption of UCB's Bimzelx at Six Months Post-Launch in Psoriatic Arthritis and Axial Spondyloarthritis, According to Spherix Global Insights
EXTON, PA, June 02, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Just over six months into its dual launch across Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) and Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA), UCB's Bimzelx (bimekizumab) is demonstrating meaningful promise, though prescriber momentum remains tempered by access hurdles and payer-imposed constraints, according to new findings from Spherix Global Insights' Launch Dynamix™ services. Physicians across both PsA (n=76) and axSpA (n=73) have expressed strong clinical enthusiasm for Bimzelx, particularly citing its unique dual inhibition of IL-17A and IL-17F as a differentiator from existing IL-17 agents. In PsA, rheumatologists report confidence in the drug's performance across both skin and joint domains and consider it a therapeutic advance over competitors like Novartis' Cosentyx and Eli Lilly's Taltz. In axSpA, particularly among more severe or refractory patients, Bimzelx is increasingly viewed as a preferred IL-17, with some physicians already positioning it ahead of established options in terms of anticipated efficacy and breadth of benefit. Despite its favorable clinical profile, Bimzelx's adoption is constrained by a consistently challenging reimbursement environment. In PsA, nearly all prescriptions require prior authorization, with step therapy requirements and payer preferences for legacy agents continuing to block earlier use. These access challenges are echoed in AS and nr-axSpA, where physicians cite not only high out-of-pocket costs and Medicare limitations but also a general lack of formulary inclusion across plans. While some rheumatologists note success in early line use, many describe regular denials and delays that often force them to default to more accessible agents despite clinical preference for Bimzelx. As one rheumatologist summarizes, 'I like Bimzelx. The big headwind I'm facing now, it just gets denied by insurers. So commercial insurance coverage, which seems to always plague UCB products, is horrible. I'm hoping that will improve.' To address these access barriers, some physicians are turning to samples and bridge programs. However, in PsA, just 13% of patients initiated on Bimzelx started with a sample or free drug, with a pattern similarly observed in axSpA. While sampling and bridge programs are providing a critical means to initiate Bimzelx, physician sentiments support that these are often used to navigate around access hurdles, with uncertainty remaining around consistent conversion to insurance coverage and sustainability of this approach. While access barriers are a common thread, and also are common across many recently launched biologics in immunology, notable differences are emerging in how Bimzelx is being adopted and perceived across PsA versus axSpA. In PsA, two-thirds of rheumatologists have already prescribed Bimzelx, typically for patients with severe or flaring disease after failing multiple advanced therapies. Many express interest in moving the therapy earlier in the treatment algorithm but, again, remain limited by payer mandates. By contrast, adoption in axSpA is still ramping up, particularly in nr-axSpA, where just a minority of rheumatologists have used the product to date. Though uptake is slower, satisfaction levels remain high among those with prescribing experience, and many physicians expect to expand use as coverage improves. In addition to ramped trial and utilization, promotional efforts from UCB are beginning to resonate. The majority of rheumatologists report contact with Bimzelx sales representatives, who are largely praised for their professionalism and ability to communicate key efficacy and safety differentiators. However, a notable subset of physicians in both PsA and axSpA have yet to be detailed, and limited awareness of support services—such as the Bimzelx Navigate program—suggests more work is needed to fully activate the prescriber base. Those who have engaged with Navigate report a positive experience, citing timely support and ease of use, though these accounts remain limited. As the launches progress, the key question is whether UCB can convert strong clinical perceptions into real-world usage at earlier points in care. While Bimzelx is well-positioned from an efficacy standpoint, its long-term success will hinge on overcoming payer resistance and improving patient access. Spherix Global Insights will continue to track Bimzelx's PsA, AS and nr-AxSpA U.S. launch trajectory through its Launch Dynamix™ service through the first eighteen months of commercial availability. Launch Dynamix™ is an independent service providing monthly benchmarking of newly launched products for the first eighteen months of commercial availability, augmented by a quarterly deep dive into promotional activity, barriers to uptake, and patient types gravitating to the launch brand. About Spherix Global Insights Spherix is a leading independent market intelligence and advisory firm that delivers commercial value to the global life sciences industry, across the brand lifecycle. The seasoned team of Spherix experts provides an unbiased and holistic view of the landscape within rapidly evolving specialty markets, including dermatology, gastroenterology, rheumatology, nephrology, neurology, ophthalmology, and hematology. Spherix clients stay ahead of the curve with the perspective of the extensive Spherix Physician Community. As a trusted advisor and industry thought leader, Spherix's unparalleled market insights and advisory services empower clients to make better decisions and unlock opportunities for growth. To learn more about Spherix Global Insights, visit or connect through LinkedIn. For more details on Spherix's primary market research reports and interactive dashboard offerings, visit or register here: NOTICE: All company, brand or product names in this press release are trademarks of their respective holders. The findings and opinions expressed within are based on Spherix Global Insight's analysis and do not imply a relationship with or endorsement of the companies or brands mentioned in this press release. Lynn Price, Rheumatology Franchise Head Spherix Global Insights 4848794284 [email protected]
Medical News Today
6 days ago
- General
- Medical News Today
Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready pens: What to know about each
Cosentyx UnoReady (secukinumab) and Sensoready (secukinumab) are brand-name injections. They're both prescribed for plaque psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and certain types of arthritis. Certain factors may determine the injection pen that's right for you. This article explains the main similarities and differences between Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready. If you're considering taking one of these drugs, discussing this information with your doctor can help you decide if one of these treatments may be right for you. Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the following conditions in adults: Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the following conditions in children: The Cosentyx UnoReady pen and Sensoready pen are approved to treat the same conditions, but the pen you're prescribed may depend on your dosage. They also share some features, including: both pens come with a concealed needle, meaning you won't need to purchase needles or attach them to the pen. both pens will sound with a 'click' when the injection starts and when the injection is nearly finished, so you know that you receive the full dose. neither pen requires pressing a button to 'activate' the injection. both pens may be injected in the same body areas: your lower stomach, the front of your thighs, or your upper outer arms (if someone else is giving your injection). But there are differences between them that can determine whether one or the other is a better fit for you. Cosentyx is also available in prefilled syringes. If you'd like to learn about how Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready pens compare versus the prefilled syringe, ask your doctor or pharmacist. The Cosentyx UnoReady pen and Sensoready pen are approved to treat the same conditions, but the pen you're prescribed may depend on your dosage. The Cosentyx UnoReady pen delivers a 300-mg dose, while the Cosentyx Sensoready pen delivers a 150-mg dose. Two Sensoready pens may be used to deliver a 300-mg dose. Below are instructions for how to use the Cosentyx UnoReady pen. Your doctor or pharmacist will train you to use the pen to give yourself Cosentyx injections. Let them know if you have questions or concerns about how to use the UnoReady pen. Remove the Cosentyx UnoReady pen from the refrigerator 30 to 45 minutes before your dose. Doing so allows the pen to reach room temperature, making the injection more comfortable. Check the viewing window and ensure that the liquid is clear, and the color is colorless or slightly yellow. Air bubbles may also be visible, which is normal. Wash your hands, then clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry. You may inject Cosentyx UnoReady doses into your lower stomach, the front of your thighs, or your upper outer arms (if someone else is giving your injection). Do not inject into skin that is bruised, hard, tender, scaly, or red or discolored. You also should not inject into an area of skin affected by psoriasis, or area with scars or stretch marks. Do not shake the UnoReady pen. shake the UnoReady pen. Remove and dispose of the cap. Position the UnoReady pen at a 90-degree angle against the injection site, with the viewing window facing you. Press the pen firmly against the skin and hold. You should hear the first 'click' sound, which indicates the injection has started. Keep holding the pen against your skin. Watch the viewing window on the UnoReady pen; you should see a moving green indicator, which shows the injection progress. You'll hear a second 'click' sound, which indicates the injection is nearly finished. After you hear the second 'click', hold the pen in place for another 5 seconds. Once the green indicator fills the viewing window and has stopped moving, you can remove the UnoReady pen from your skin and dispose of it in a sharps container. When you're first prescribed the Cosentyx Sensoready pen, your doctor or pharmacist will show you how to give yourself injections. Cosentyx Sensoready pen instructions are included below, but reach out to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions or concerns about how to use Cosentyx Sensoready pens. Remove the Cosentyx Sensoready pen from the refrigerator 15 to 30 minutes before your dose. This allows the pen to reach room temperature, which helps make the injection more comfortable. Look at the Sensoready pen viewing window and ensure the liquid is clear with a colorless or slightly yellow appearance. Air bubbles may also appear, which is normal. If your prescribed dose is 150 mg, you'll give one injection. If your prescribed dose is 300 mg, you'll need to use two Cosentyx Sensoready pens to give two injections. You should choose a different injection site for each injection if your dose requires two injections. Wash your hands, then clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry. You may inject Cosentyx Sensoready doses into the front of your thighs, your lower stomach, or your upper outer arms (if someone else is giving your injection). Avoid giving an injection into skin that is tender, bruised, red or discolored, hard, or scaly. Do not inject into an area of skin affected by psoriasis, or area with stretch marks or scars. Do not shake the Sensoready pen. shake the Sensoready pen. Remove and throw away the cap. Hold the Sensoready pen at a 90-degree angle against the injection site. Press and hold the Sensoready pen firmly against the skin at the injection site. You should hear the first 'click' sound, which signals the injection has started. Continue holding the Sensoready pen firmly against your skin. Watch the progress of the injection using the 360-degree viewing window on the Sensoready pen. You should see a green moving indicator. When the pen sounds a second 'click', the injection is nearly complete. Continue holding the Sensoready pen against your skin until the green moving indicator fills the viewing window and stops moving. Once the green indicator stops moving, the injection is complete. You may now dispose of the Sensoready pen into a sharps container. If your dose is 300 mg, repeat these steps with a new Sensoready pen at a different injection site. If you're prescribed Cosentyx UnoReady or Sensoready, you may wonder how effective either drug is for treating your condition. Prescribing information: Here's a brief look at how effective Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready were found to be in clinical trials. Clinical trials found Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoeady effective at treating: For details about how these drugs performed in clinical trials, see the prescribing information for Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready. Keep in mind that trial results may not apply to your individual health situation. Treatment guidelines: Another way to see whether a drug is considered effective is to look at treatment guidelines. When an organization includes certain drugs in treatment guidelines, this means that research has shown the drug to be safe and effective. Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready both contain the same active ingredient (what makes a drug work), secukinumab. Below is information on treatment guidelines that recommend secukinumab as a treatment for approved uses of Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready: Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The two drugs share some of the same precautions, but they also have different ones. Some of these precautions are mentioned below. If any of the following medical conditions or other health factors are relevant to you, talk with your doctor before using Cosentyx UnoReady or Sensoready. The Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready pens are approved to treat the same conditions, but differences between the two can determine which is a better fit for you. A few key differences include: The UnoReady pen cap isn't made with latex, making it a better option if you have a latex allergy. The UnoReady pen can only deliver a 300-mg dose. The Sensoready pen, on the other hand, delivers a 150-mg dose. Two Sensoready pens may be used to give a 300-mg dose. This makes the Sensoready pen more versatile in its dosing options. The UnoReady pen is rectangular in shape, while the Sensoready pen is triangular. You may find one pen more comfortable to hold and use than the other based on your preferences. To learn more about how the Cosentyx UnoReady and Sensoready pens compare, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help decide if either pen is a better option for you. Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses. Psoriasis Psoriatic Arthritis Pharmacy / Pharmacist Drugs Arthritis
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Generic Drugs Market size is projected to reach USD 594.99 billion by 2031, With growing at a CAGR of 5.0%
The report runs an in-depth analysis of market trends, key players, and future opportunities. The generic drugs market comprises a range of drugs used for the treatment of various conditions that are expected to register strength in the coming years. US & Canada, May 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to a new comprehensive report from The Insight Partners, the global Generic Drugs Market is growing owing to patent expiry and loss of market exclusivity, along with increasing government initiatives to promote the use of generic drugs. The global generic drugs market Key players include Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Mylan N.V., Dr. Reddy's Laboratories Ltd., Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, Apotex Inc., Pfizer Inc. are significant contributors to the U.S. generics market, supplying nearly half of the nation's generic prescriptions. The oncology segment is expected to witness notable growth during the forecast period. To explore the valuable insights in the Generic Drugs Market report, you can easily download a sample PDF of the report - Overview of Report Findings 1. Market Growth: The generic drugs market is expected to reach US$ 594.99 Billion by 2031 from US$ 423.55 billion in 2023 at a CAGR of 5.0% during the forecast period. Generic Drugs have the same active ingredients as the branded drugs with different excipients which drastically reduces the prices of drugs and makes it affordable to large population with the same efficacy, intended use and performance. The increasing prevalence of various diseases, increasing patent expiry, and market exclusivity, along with higher affordability of generic drugs, are major factors driving the market growth. Additionally, supportive government and regulatory policies further contribute to the market growth. 2. Patent Expiry and Loss of Market Exclusivity: When patents expire, generic manufacturers can produce and sell bioequivalent versions of these drugs at lower prices, unlocking new market opportunities. In 2025-2026, Keytruda (Merck's cancer immunotherapy), which generated over US$ 25 billion in 2024 sales, and Ozempic (Novo Nordisk's treatment for diabetes and obesity) are set to lose their patents. Additionally, other high-revenue drugs, such as Eliquis (Bristol-Myers Squibb's blood thinner) and Cosentyx (Novartis' immunology drug), are also expected to experience patent loss, paving the way for more generic pharmaceuticals and biosimilars. In 2024, several blockbuster drugs lost their patents, creating additional space for generic alternatives. Notable drugs facing patent expiration include: Abilify Maintaina (Otsuka Pharmaceutical), an injectable antipsychotic that generated US$ 15.5 billion in sales in 2022, lost its patent in October 2024. Xarelto (Janssen Pharmaceuticals), an anticoagulant, lost its patent in August 2024. Farxiga (AstraZeneca), an anti-diabetic drug with annual sales of approximately US$ 4.3 billion, lost its patent in 2024. Lynparza (AstraZeneca), a cancer treatment generating ~US$ 2.7 billion in sales, lost its patent in 2024. Symbicort (AstraZeneca), a respiratory drug, lost its patent in November 2024. Entresto (Novartis), a heart failure treatment generating US$ 2.5 billion in sales in 2022, lost its patent. Latuda (Sunovion Pharmaceuticals), an antipsychotic with US$ 1.8 billion in sales, lost its patent in February 2024. Xifaxan (Salix Pharmaceuticals), a gastrointestinal drug with sales of US$ 1.6 billion, lost its patent in June 2024. Cabometyx (Exelixis), used to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma, lost its patent in September 2024. These drugs have generated substantial global revenue and opened opportunities for generic manufacturers to create cost-effective alternatives. Between 2023 and 2029, patents for more than 100 critical drugs—including those for cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases—are set to expire, representing over US$ 300 billion in global annual sales. Thus, the loss of exclusivity is increasing the production of generics and biosimilars, leading to a reduction in global healthcare costs. 3. Government Initiatives Promoting the Use of Generic Drugs: In high-income countries, governments are recognizing the financial benefits associated with the use of generics, which help in the overall reduction of healthcare spending. These initiatives offer financial benefits to healthcare providers who prescribe generic alternatives instead of brand-name drugs, with programs such as subsidies, tax rebates, or bonuses based on the volume of generics prescribed. In the US, Medicare and Medicaid promote the use of generics so they gain acceptance in public healthcare systems. Germany and France have implemented stringent regulations that mandate pharmacists to sell the generic version unless the prescription specifically states the brand-name alternative. Governments in India and Brazil are coming up with initiatives to help reduce increasing health costs and, thus, encourage the use of generics. In India, the Jan Aushadhi Scheme was initiated, which provides affordable generic medicines through public outlets, contributing to healthcare accessibility to millions. These efforts are not confined to developed economies but extend to economies with limited healthcare budgets, where cost-saving measures ensure access to medications. Thus, increasing demand for affordable drugs presents significant opportunites for pharmaceutical companies operating the generic drugs market. 4. Geographical Insights: In 2023, North America led the market with a substantial revenue share, followed by Europe and APAC. Asia Pacific is expected to register the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Stay Updated on The Latest Generic Drugs Market Trends: Market Segmentation Based on molecule type, the generic drugs market is segmented into antidepressants, antihistamines, analgesics, antibiotics, antivirals, diuretics, and others. The antibiotics segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. By indication, the generic drugs market is segmented into metabolic diseases, cancer, immunology, respiratory disorder, cardiovascular disorder, neurology disorder, rare disease, and others. The cancer segment held the largest share of the market in 2024. In terms of type, the generic drugs market is bifurcated into prescription and OTC drugs. The prescription segment held a larger share of the market in 2024. By distribution channel, the generic drugs market is segmented into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and online pharmacies. The hospital pharmacies segment held the largest share of the generic drugs market in 2024. The generic drugs market is segmented into five major regions: North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East & Africa, and South & Central America. Competitive Strategy and Development Key Players: Major companies operating in the generic drugs market include Novartis AG, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, GSK Plc, Johnson & Johnson, Merck KGaA, Pfizer Inc, Sanofi SA, AstraZeneca Plc, Eli Lilly and Co, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Mylan NV, UCB SA, Becton Dickinson and Co, ESTEVE, and Hikma Pharmaceuticals Plc. Trending Topics: Pharmaceutical Market, Oncology Drugs Market, Antibiotics Market, OTC Drugs Market, Prescription Drugs Market, etc. Global Headlines on Generic Drugs Glenmark Launches Generic Ophthalmic Solution in US Market" Teva Announces the Launch of Authorized Generic of Victoza® (liraglutide injection 1.8mg), in the US " Senores to Acquire Generic Drug from Dr. Reddy's " Synthon, a Global Leader in Complex Generic Drug Development and Manufacturing, Announces Investment from Goldman Sachs Alternatives "Purchase Premium Copy of Global Generic Drugs Market Size and Growth Report (2025-2031) at: The generic drugs market is growing owing to patent expirations, government policies, and the increasing demand for affordable medicines. The increasing patent expiry for cancer drugs, anti-diabetic drugs, and treatments in immunology has created opportunities for generic drug manufacturers to provide inexpensive alternatives. The entry of these generics is crucial in lowering healthcare expenditures across nations and providing easier access to therapies for patients, especially when the country's healthcare system has a constrained budget. Although financial incentives to healthcare providers and regulatory approaches to allow easier access to generics stimulate the trend, initiatives in advanced economies such as the US and Europe, as well as emerging markets such as India and Brazil, are making generics more available and affordable. The rise of generics is helpful in public healthcare systems that have limited budgets, where such savings ensure that greater numbers of people have access to needed treatments. The report from The Insight Partners, therefore, provides several stakeholders—including pharmaceutical manufacturers, Contract Research and Manufacturing Organizations, healthcare providers, biopharmaceutical manufacturers, and others—with valuable insights into how to successfully navigate this evolving market landscape and unlock new any Query Talk to Us Directly: Related Reports: Us: The Insight Partners is a one stop industry research provider of actionable intelligence. We help our clients in getting solutions to their research requirements through our syndicated and consulting research services. We specialize in industries such as Semiconductor and Electronics, Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, Biotechnology, Healthcare IT, Manufacturing and Construction, Medical Device, Technology, Media and Telecommunications, Chemicals and Materials. Contact Us: If you have any queries about this report or if you would like further information, please contact us: Contact Person: Ankit Mathur E-mail: Phone: +1-646-491-9876 Home - while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Republicans Want You to Pay More at the Pharmacy — Or Die
President Donald Trump has promised to impose more tariffs, this time on the pills, injections, and treatments keeping millions of Americans alive and healthy. Sixty-six percent of adults in the United States take prescription drugs. I'm one of them. If and when these tariffs go into effect, the already criminal cost of my psoriatic arthritis medication — and everyone else's medication — will go through the roof. Without health insurance, a monthly supply of Cosentyx costs around $8,000. Trump has indicated that his pharmaceutical tariffs will range from 50 to 200 percent. The meds that make it possible for me, and tens of thousands of Americans, to live a normal life without chronic pain could cost anywhere from $12,000 to $24,000 per month in the very near future. It's not just biologics — the cost of antibiotics, acne treatments, weight loss drugs like Ozempic, inhalers, birth control, blood pressure pills, and more will skyrocket. Keep in mind: Americans already pay far higher prices for drugs than people in other countries. Even if you are one of the rare Americans who can afford even higher costs, your prescription might disappear from the shelves. Right now, there are 270 active drug shortages in the U.S. Shortages of antibiotics are particularly dire, with most being made abroad. These tariffs will slow production and even shutter smaller facilities. You might be thinking, I'd like more of my drugs to be produced in the United States. That's perfectly reasonable, but Trump's tariffs will have the opposite effect. In fact, companies like Eli Lilly that are building factories stateside are now seeing construction costs balloon, thanks to Trump's construction tariffs. That's a cost many businesses can't and won't begin to afford. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved over 23,000 individual medications. It is unrealistic, if not impossible, to move all production to the United States, especially in time to beat these tariffs. Our entire economy and education systems would have to change. We wouldn't build cars or invent new technologies — we'd compound topical creams. Right now, America dominates the most essential part of pharmaceutical production — research and trials. We created the polio vaccine, performed the first successful kidney transplant, and led the project to map the human genome. And yet, the very thing our nation excels at, Republicans are destroying. Trump and the GOP are shutting down university labs conducting drug research. They are canceling cancer clinical trials. They are defunding the National Institutes of Health, which leads the world's health research. In fact, the NIH helps fund research and development on virtually every drug that's approved for sale. Instead of focusing on the science, Trump's administration is busy drumming up conspiracy theories about vaccines and Wi-Fi making us sick. In the short term, we'll pay more at the pharmacy. We'll get sicker. I won't be able to use my right hand, your parents' blood pressure will rise, and your kid's blood sugar will be unstable. Billionaire Mark Cuban, who runs an online pharmacy dedicated to selling medications at a lower price, said of Trump's planned tariffs, 'It will get ugly. … people could die.' The truly horrific costs of Trump's war on health care will arrive in a few years. Without American-led research, the search for cancer, ALS, diabetes, and Alzheimer's cures will slow. When new ailments and illnesses arrive, scientific breakthroughs will take longer. We will be set back decades — all because Trump lost his mind and Republicans followed his lead. Liz Charboneau is the Vice President of Research at American Bridge 21st Century PAC. More from Rolling Stone Sean Penn Says Donald Trump 'Might Try to Destroy the World' Trump Directs Federal Bureau of Prisons to 'Reopen a Substantially Enlarged and Rebuilt Alcatraz' Donald Trump Wants to Impose a '100% Tariff' on U.S. Films Made Outside the Country Best of Rolling Stone The Useful Idiots New Guide to the Most Stoned Moments of the 2020 Presidential Campaign Anatomy of a Fake News Scandal The Radical Crusade of Mike Pence
Yahoo
04-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Republicans Want You to Pay More at the Pharmacy — Or Die
President Donald Trump has promised to impose more tariffs, this time on the pills, injections, and treatments keeping millions of Americans alive and healthy. Sixty-six percent of adults in the United States take prescription drugs. I'm one of them. If and when these tariffs go into effect, the already criminal cost of my psoriatic arthritis medication — and everyone else's medication — will go through the roof. Without health insurance, a monthly supply of Cosentyx costs around $8,000. Trump has indicated that his pharmaceutical tariffs will range from 50 to 200 percent. The meds that make it possible for me, and tens of thousands of Americans, to live a normal life without chronic pain could cost anywhere from $12,000 to $24,000 per month in the very near future. It's not just biologics — the cost of antibiotics, acne treatments, weight loss drugs like Ozempic, inhalers, birth control, blood pressure pills, and more will skyrocket. Keep in mind: Americans already pay far higher prices for drugs than people in other countries. Even if you are one of the rare Americans who can afford even higher costs, your prescription might disappear from the shelves. Right now, there are 270 active drug shortages in the U.S. Shortages of antibiotics are particularly dire, with most being made abroad. These tariffs will slow production and even shutter smaller facilities. You might be thinking, I'd like more of my drugs to be produced in the United States. That's perfectly reasonable, but Trump's tariffs will have the opposite effect. In fact, companies like Eli Lilly that are building factories stateside are now seeing construction costs balloon, thanks to Trump's construction tariffs. That's a cost many businesses can't and won't begin to afford. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved over 23,000 individual medications. It is unrealistic, if not impossible, to move all production to the United States, especially in time to beat these tariffs. Our entire economy and education systems would have to change. We wouldn't build cars or invent new technologies — we'd compound topical creams. Right now, America dominates the most essential part of pharmaceutical production — research and trials. We created the polio vaccine, performed the first successful kidney transplant, and led the project to map the human genome. And yet, the very thing our nation excels at, Republicans are destroying. Trump and the GOP are shutting down university labs conducting drug research. They are canceling cancer clinical trials. They are defunding the National Institutes of Health, which leads the world's health research. In fact, the NIH helps fund research and development on virtually every drug that's approved for sale. Instead of focusing on the science, Trump's administration is busy drumming up conspiracy theories about vaccines and Wi-Fi making us sick. In the short term, we'll pay more at the pharmacy. We'll get sicker. I won't be able to use my right hand, your parents' blood pressure will rise, and your kid's blood sugar will be unstable. Billionaire Mark Cuban, who runs an online pharmacy dedicated to selling medications at a lower price, said of Trump's planned tariffs, 'It will get ugly. … people could die.' The truly horrific costs of Trump's war on health care will arrive in a few years. Without American-led research, the search for cancer, ALS, diabetes, and Alzheimer's cures will slow. When new ailments and illnesses arrive, scientific breakthroughs will take longer. We will be set back decades — all because Trump lost his mind and Republicans followed his lead. Liz Charboneau is the Vice President of Research at American Bridge 21st Century PAC. More from Rolling Stone Naomi Klein: 'What They Want Is Absolutely Everything' What, Like It's Hard? Yes, Being a Harvard Student Has Been Difficult Lately, Thanks for Asking 'SNL' Weekend Update Roasts Trump's Pope Dream, Stock Market Pleas Best of Rolling Stone The Useful Idiots New Guide to the Most Stoned Moments of the 2020 Presidential Campaign Anatomy of a Fake News Scandal The Radical Crusade of Mike Pence
