Drugmakers Agree to Medicare Price Talks Despite Opposition
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All 10 drugmakers agreed to participate in Medicare price negotiations despite suing to stop the process. Companies had to agree by Sunday and submit drug data by Monday.
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The talks aim to lower prices for 10 medicines like diabetes and heart drugs. New prices take effect in 2026. More drugs will be negotiated in future years.
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Companies argue they had no choice but to join talks or face steep penalties. But analysts expect limited financial impact initially.
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CMS will host meetings with companies and patient groups this fall before making initial price offers in February.
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Negotiations are estimated to save Medicare $98.5 billion over a decade and reduce costs for enrollees.