2 chapters across the catalog
Prescription drug spending in the U.S. rose 13% last year, driven by "specialty drugs" like the Hepatitis C treatment Sovaldi, which costs $80,000 for 12 weeks. The hosts argue that Obamacare has removed price sensitivity by shifting costs to insurance companies, allowing drug manufacturers to gouge the system. This "rigged" system ensures that high prices are funneled directly from insurers to pharmaceutical coffers.
Gilead Sciences is facing controversy over its Hepatitis C drug, Sovaldi, which costs $84,000 for a course of treatment in the U.S. While the company is negotiating a deal to sell a generic version in 80 developing countries, American patients remain stuck with the high price tag. The hosts describe the situation as "disturbing and disgusting," noting the disparity in global drug pricing.
