What's Happening?
Gilead Sciences' new HIV prevention drug, Yeztugo, is facing challenges in gaining widespread coverage due to its $28,000 price tag. Despite its effectiveness in preventing HIV, CVS Caremark has declined
to add the drug to its formularies, citing high costs. However, other insurers have begun covering Yeztugo, and Gilead anticipates that 90% of the targeted patient population will have access by mid-2026. The drug's high price has sparked debate over its impact on efforts to eradicate HIV in the U.S.
Why It's Important?
The pricing of Yeztugo highlights ongoing tensions between pharmaceutical innovation and healthcare affordability. While the drug offers significant potential in preventing HIV, its high cost may limit accessibility, particularly for uninsured or underinsured populations. This situation underscores the need for balanced pricing strategies that ensure both innovation and accessibility. The outcome of this pricing debate could influence future policies on drug pricing and access, particularly for life-saving medications.
