Under the Microscope: Unmasking The Creation of New Treatments

The podcast episode dives into the complex and often overlooked process of drug development, highlighting its impact on rare disease communities. Important information for anyone that takes medications! Hosts explore the decade-long journey from molecule discovery to market release, emphasizing the immense financial and regulatory challenges. Guest Ron Cohen, a seasoned pharmaceutical executive, reveals the billion-dollar investments needed and the high failure rates drugs face. The discussion also uncovers the opaque role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in escalating drug prices. The episode calls for legislative changes to support orphan drugs and improve price transparency, stressing the importance of patient advocacy and legislative awareness.