US Pharma Companies Launch Direct-to-Consumer Sales with Price Reductions
Several pharmaceutical companies in the U.S. have announced a new approach to selling their drugs. These firms plan to offer prescription medications directly to consumers, accompanied by significant price reductions. The move aligns with President Donald Trump’s campaign to reduce drug prices and eliminate intermediaries like pharmacies and insurers.
Direct-to-Consumer Sales Initiatives
Government Actions and Industry Responses
The Trump administration revealed plans in September to launch TrumpRx.gov, a government-run website expected to be operational by early 2026. This platform aims to provide U.S. consumers with reduced-price prescription drugs. In July, Trump issued letters to 17 major pharmaceutical companies, urging them to lower U.S. drug prices.
Key Pharmaceutical Companies Involved
- AbbVie: Announced plans in September to offer their ovarian cancer drug, Elahere, at a price matching international rates.
- AstraZeneca: On October 10, this firm struck a deal to offer its medicines at reduced prices through Medicaid and TrumpRx, which includes up to 80% discounts.
- Bristol-Myers Squibb: Will cut prices for Eliquis and offer an 80% discount on Sotyktu to eligible U.S. patients.
- Eli Lilly: Began direct online sales of Zepbound doses in August via their website.
- Novo Nordisk: Offers Ozempic for $499 monthly to direct-paying U.S. patients via its own platforms.
- Pfizer: Agreed to align Medicaid drug prices with those in other developed countries, alongside a $70 billion investment in R&D.
- Sanofi: Provides a month’s insulin supply for $35 to all U.S. patients with valid prescriptions.
Emerging Platforms and Concepts
The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) plans to introduce AmericasMedicines.com next January. This platform will facilitate direct purchases of drugs from manufacturers. Meanwhile, Zealand Pharma is exploring a direct-to-patient model for a new weight-loss drug, collaborating with Roche.
Emegypt reports that these initiatives highlight the ongoing transformation in the pharmaceutical industry, emphasizing affordability and accessibility for U.S. patients.
