Compound Tirzepatide: Hundreds of Thousands Losing Access. This Proposal Could Change That

This is something we can get behind.

This week, the Trump administration announced plans to revive a sweeping Medicare reform, including a version of the Most Favored Nation (MFN) pricing model. This policy aims to tie U.S. drug prices to those in other developed countries, potentially lowering costs. However, similar proposals in the past faced significant challenges and were ultimately shelved. The current announcement lacks detailed implementation strategies, leaving many skeptical about its potential impact.

Meanwhile, patients continue to face high costs for medications like GLP-1s. The recent court ruling against the Outsourcing Facilities Association (OFA) further limits access to compounded versions of these drugs, removing a critical affordability option for many.

In light of these developments, Geoff Cook, CEO of Noom, has put forth a compelling alternative. On a recent episode of my podcast, On The Pen, Cook introduced the concept of a High-Priced Drug List. This list would identify medications priced significantly higher in the U.S. compared to other countries. If a drug’s U.S. price exceeds twice the average price in peer nations, it would be eligible for compounding by 503B outsourcing facilities, even if not in physical shortage.

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This approach doesn’t impose price controls but introduces market competition, encouraging manufacturers to reconsider exorbitant pricing. It leverages existing FDA mechanisms to improve access without requiring new legislation.

Cook’s proposal resonates with the principles of the MFN model but offers a more immediate and actionable solution. By focusing on affordability and access, it addresses the pressing needs of patients struggling with high medication costs.

As the Trump administration revisits drug pricing reforms, incorporating innovative ideas like Cook’s could lead to meaningful change. It’s time to prioritize patient access and affordability in the ongoing healthcare policy discourse.