Big American pharmaceutical companies have increased prices for over 200 drugs.
Drug prices are set to go up on Wednesday by companies like Pfizer and GlaxoSmithKline. These price increases are mostly expected to be under 10%. Data from drug manufacturers and research company 3 Axis Advisers indicate that around half of the increases will range from 4% to 6%, with a median hike of 5%.
Out of the drugs facing price raises, about 43% are anticipated to be sterile, injectable drugs. The price hikes cover a wide range of treatments for various conditions such as cancer, HIV, rheumatoid arthritis, and respiratory issues. Pfizer is expected to have the highest number of drug price increases, with over 50 drugs seeing price hikes.
We can expect an announcement later this week on additional drugs facing price increases. This list may see changes with the inclusion of new drugs.
Drug price increases are a contentious topic in the US and are likely to be a significant issue in the upcoming 2020 presidential elections. Many companies committing to keep annual price hikes under 10% are acting on this pledge. Patients and politicians have been advocating for drug companies to limit price hikes and ensure that prescription drugs remain affordable for patients.