The FDA does not have the authority to regulate the prices of drug products in the United States. Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers establish these prices. Since some countries’ health care systems are government controlled, such as Canada’s, drugs sold in these countries may be considerably less expensive than they are in the United States.
You may wish to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to voice your concerns on the price of drugs. 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. You can contact them at:
Federal Trade Commission
Bureau of Competition
Office of Policy and Evaluation
Room 394
Washington, D.C. 20580
Phone: 202-326-3300
Internet: http://www.ftc.gov
We understand that drug prices have a direct impact on the ability of people to cope with their illnesses as well as to meet other expenses. The FDA, however, has no statutory authority to investigate or control the prices charged for marketed drugs. These prices are established by manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
Several drug manufacturers have patient assistance programs that will make drugs available to consumers at no cost or at a reduced cost. Financial assistance may also be provided to qualified individuals through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). To obtain additional information, please contact CMS directly at the following address:
Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services
7500 Security Boulevard
Baltimore MD 21244-1850
Phone: 410-786-3000
http://cms.hhs.gov.
