pharmaceutical costs

It’s a big job clearing out so-called “patent thickets” drugmakers create to keep their products’ prices high. But the Federal Trade Commission is giving it a shot.

The FDA has long blocked the importation of cheap medicine, agreeing with pharmaceutical manufacturers that it opens the door to opioids. The agency’s own data shows that rarely happens.

The FDA approved the use of Leqembi in January for patients with mild or early cases of dementia tied to Alzheimer’s. A year’s treatment runs about $26,500, and there are few options outside of self-pay.

Colorado, New Hampshire and New Mexico are also seeking federal permission to import cost-lowering prescription drugs from Canada. President Joe Biden endorsed the approach in his 2020 campaign but has yet to approve any state plan.

A divided Congress gave final passage to Democrats’ flagship climate and health care bill.

The pharmacy says it will bypass health care industry "middlemen" and help consumers avoid high drug prices by charging manufacturers' prices plus a flat 15% markup and pharmacist fee.

On Thursday, Gov. Ron DeSantis included $15 million in his proposed 2021-22 budget for an importation program. That would come on top of $10 million the Legislature already directed toward the plan.

Two nearly identical drug implants have very different prices. The one for kids has a list price of $37,300. For adults, it's $4,400. A dad fought for his daughter to be able to get the cheaper drug.