"TrumpRx, the Trump administration's much-anticipated direct-to-consumer drug platform, went live on Thursday. A key pillar of President Donald Trump's effort to lower prescription drug costs, the website will serve as a clearinghouse that connects patients with drugmakers selling certain products to those willing to pay cash and forgo insurance. The medications, including the blockbuster obesity drugs Zepbound and Wegovy, will be available at a discount through these channels."
"Some 43 drugs are now available on the portal, although the administration said more will be added. The offerings include Eli Lilly's Zepbound starting at $299 a month and Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill for as little as $149 a month; AstraZeneca's inhaler Bevespi for $51; and Pfizer's Xeljanz, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions, for $1,518,30."
"However, it remains to be seen whether direct-to-consumer channels will actually result in lower costs for cash-paying patients with prescriptions. They could make certain drugs, particularly obesity medications that are not widely covered by insurance, more affordable, experts say. But many consumers could ultimately pay less for many other medicines over the course of the year if they go through their insurance."
TrumpRx.gov launched as a direct-to-consumer clearinghouse linking patients who will pay cash to drugmakers offering discounted medicines. At least 16 manufacturers have agreements to participate and 43 drugs are currently listed, with additional products expected. Examples include Eli Lilly's Zepbound at $299 monthly, Novo Nordisk's Wegovy at $149 monthly, AstraZeneca's Bevespi inhaler at $51, and Pfizer's Xeljanz at $1,518,30. Some announced drugs, such as Merck's Januvia at $100, are not yet listed. Discounts range widely, often about half off, but savings depend on whether patients use insurance versus paying cash.
Read at ABC7 Los Angeles
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