We understand that high drug prices have a direct impact on patients—too many American patients are priced out of the medicines they need. However, the FDA has no legal authority to investigate or control the prices set by manufacturers, distributors and retailers. A number of factors can impact drug pricing, such as the costs of research and development and the amount of competition in the marketplace. Also, other factors, beyond FDA’s purview can determine patient access to drugs. The agency is committed to facilitating increased competition in the market for prescription drugs through the approval of lower-cost, generic medicines.
If you are concerned about the price of your medications discuss your options with your health-care provider to determine if there is a lower-cost alternative or generic drug available. You can also contact the drug manufacturer. Some drug manufacturers have patient assistance programs to help patients pay for needed medications. Finally, consider contacting the Federal Trade Commission. The FTC enforces a variety of federal antitrust and consumer protection laws. The FTC seeks to ensure that the nation’s markets function competitively, and are vigorous, efficient, and free of undue restrictions.
