虎嗅APP·2025-11-14 14:21Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant price reduction of weight loss drugs in the U.S. following negotiations led by former President Trump, highlighting the impact on pharmaceutical companies and the healthcare system [5][8][20]. Group 1: Price Reduction Announcement - Trump announced a drastic price cut for weight loss drugs Wegovy and Zepbound, from $1,350 and $1,086 per month to $350, with plans to further reduce it to $245 over two years [8][20]. - The price reduction will be available through Medicare and a new platform called TrumpRx.gov, aimed at providing direct access to lower drug prices [20][21]. Group 2: Context of Drug Pricing in the U.S. - The U.S. spends over $12,000 per person annually on healthcare, significantly higher than other developed countries, yet has a lower life expectancy [14][16]. - According to a 2024 report, the average price of drugs in the U.S. is 2.8 times higher than in 33 other OECD countries, with innovative drugs being even more expensive [16][18]. Group 3: Pharmaceutical Companies' Response - Pfizer has committed to offering discounts of 50% to 85% on many of its primary care drugs, affecting over 100 million patients in the U.S. [19]. - The negotiations with Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly focused on existing weight loss drugs, with the aim of including them in Medicare and expediting the approval of future oral versions [20][30]. Group 4: Market Dynamics and Future Implications - The article notes that the GLP-1 class of weight loss drugs is gaining popularity due to their effectiveness, but their high prices have limited access [27][28]. - With the expiration of patents for these drugs in countries like China and India by 2026, there is potential for increased competition and lower prices in the U.S. market [28][30]. Group 5: Political and Economic Considerations - Trump's approach contrasts with previous administrations, focusing on aggressive negotiations and potential tariffs on non-compliant pharmaceutical companies [33][39]. - The article suggests that the high drug prices in the U.S. are a result of a complex system involving pharmaceutical companies, insurance providers, and intermediaries, which has led to rising costs for consumers [35][36].