Why do pharmaceutical companies give away some expensive drugs for free?

Mar 31, 2023
Some offer patient assistance programs, where people can access drugs for free, or cheaper than they would normally pay.
Patient assistance programs might provide much needed relief for patients on an individual level, but they can end up costing health insurers more money.
PAUL J. RICHARDS / Staff

The messaging war over drug prices

May 1, 2019
AARP and the pharmaceutical industry are running ad campaigns in an attempt to shape eventual legislation.
Joe Raedle/Getty Images

Walgreens has a tough quarter

Apr 2, 2019
Pharmacy chain Walgreens reported a 3.8 percent drop in sales for the quarter. The company cited a weak cough, cold and flu season — and declining profits from generic and branded prescription drugs. Click the audio player above to hear the full story.
People walk by a Walgreens store in San Francisco.
Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Here's why Eli Lilly will sell a generic insulin

Mar 4, 2019
Lawmakers have been critical of big pharma's pricing structures.

Pharma executives in the hot seat over drug prices

Feb 26, 2019
Senior leaders of big pharmaceutical companies are in D.C. Tuesday to testify before a Senate committee.
jorgeantonio/iStock/Getty Images Plus

Senate to scrutinize hospitals on low-income patient profits and spending

Jun 19, 2018
This morning, a Senate committee checks in to see how the cuts to the so-called 340b program, which allows hospitals to buy drugs at a discount, are impacting hospitals and patients. Critics say there’s little evidence that hospitals used the savings to help patients. Click the audio player above to hear the full story. 

Why health care is like a Rubik's Cube

Apr 12, 2017
Dr. Elisabeth Rosenthal talks about her new book and the danger of all-or-nothing politics.
PATRIK STOLLARZ/AFP/Getty Images

For public good, not for profit.

Data shows drug prices spiked seven percent last year

Oct 18, 2016
While consumer spending grew 1.5 percent last year, drug prices rose dramatically.
JEAN-CHRISTOPHE VERHAEGEN/AFP/Getty Images