FTC Sues Pharmacy Benefit Managers, Accusing Them of Inflating Insulin Costs
Significant Lawsuit Against Pharmacy Benefit Managers
The FTC has taken a crucial step by filing a lawsuit against the nation's top pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), asserting that their practices have artificially inflated insulin costs.
Understanding Pharmacy Benefit Managers' Role
Pharmacy benefit managers, including Optum Rx, CVS Health's Caremark, and Express Scripts, negotiate drug rebates for insurers and other agencies. While these rebates can lower copay costs for patients, critics argue that they also compel drug manufacturers to raise list prices.
Impact on Patients and Market
This lawsuit raises critical questions about how these practices directly affect patients' out-of-pocket expenses when purchasing insulin.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.