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Express Scripts considering settlement in FTC insulin price lawsuit
Yahoo Finance· 2026-01-23 08:36
Core Insights - The potential settlement between Cigna's Express Scripts and the FTC marks a significant development in the ongoing lawsuit against major pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) accused of inflating insulin prices [3][8] - The FTC's lawsuit, initiated in September 2024, alleges that the "Big Three" PBMs control approximately 80% of U.S. prescriptions and have been steering patients towards higher-priced insulin to secure larger rebates from drug manufacturers [4][5] Group 1: Legal Proceedings - The FTC has suspended proceedings against Cigna's subsidiaries, including Express Scripts, to consider a proposed consent agreement that would resolve all claims against Cigna [8] - The FTC paused the entire case for 14 days to facilitate settlement discussions with CVS and UnitedHealth, the other companies involved in the lawsuit [8] Group 2: Industry Context - PBMs have faced increasing scrutiny from lawmakers and regulators, who argue that their business practices contribute to rising drug costs [5][6] - Legislative efforts are underway to impose stricter regulations on PBMs, including proposals in a government funding deal currently being considered in Congress [6]