SC Connecticut News

Yale School of Medicine experts are shedding light on the concerning trend of skyrocketing prices for new diabetes and obesity medications. Dr. Kasia Lipska, an associate professor of medicine at Yale School of Medicine, has long been an advocate for affordable insulin pricing, an essential drug for individuals with diabetes. Now, she is directing her attention towards the exorbitant costs of novel therapies for diabetes and obesity.

In a recent paper published in Diabetes Care, Dr. Lipska, along with Dr. Reshma Ramachandran and Dr. Kathryn Nagel, highlighted the pressing need for policy changes to ensure fair pricing of these crucial medications. Dr. Ramachandran emphasized the challenges faced by patients in accessing new diabetes and anti-obesity drugs, stating that multiple policies are required for meaningful reform.

Dr. Lipska acknowledged the complexity of the drug pricing process in the U.S., noting that significant reforms are necessary across the drug development and delivery chain. She emphasized the role of clinicians in advocating for their patients and providing valuable feedback on policy solutions. Despite the obstacles posed by U.S. corporations and existing legislation, there is a growing awareness of the urgency to address the drug pricing crisis.

While recent laws like the Inflation Reduction Act aim to lower prescription drug prices, including those for diabetes treatment, the researchers caution that more comprehensive measures are needed for novel treatments. Dr. Lipska highlighted the importance of clinicians' involvement in shaping drug affordability policies and expressed optimism about the increasing focus on this critical issue.

The Yale School of Medicine’s Section of Endocrinology & Metabolism continues its mission to enhance patient care, advance scientific knowledge, and train future leaders in the field. For more information, visit the Endocrinology & Metabolism department.