4 chapters across the catalog
Martin Shkreli, Orphan Drugs, Pharmaceutical Pricing
Martin Shkreli appears on Tucker Carlson's show to defend his business model of acquiring "orphan drugs" and raising prices. Shkreli argues that his profits fund research for rare diseases and that the media unfairly targets him while ignoring price hikes by major firms like Pfizer.
A pharmaceutical professional explains the difficulties of funding research for "orphan diseases" affecting fewer than 250,000 people. The discussion explores why using Kickstarter for medical research is considered "unethical" by the FDA and the established pharmaceutical industry.
SOS Children's Villages, Mike Holmes Charity Pitch
A Canadian charity pitch featuring Mike Holmes for SOS Children's Villages is analyzed for its "peculiar" presentation. The hosts find the script awkward, particularly a line about orphans not having anyone to make them breakfast before school when they don't actually attend school. They compare the Canadian style of charity appeals to American versions.
The Orphan Drug Act is being exploited by companies like KV Pharmaceuticals to repatent old, cheap compounds and raise prices from $30 to $30,000. The FDA is criticized for allowing patent exclusivity on existing drugs and failing to protect the public from corporate monopolies.
