Why Are Oral Chemo Drugs So Expensive: Unraveling The Cost Dilemma

Many people often wonder why cancer medications come with such steep price tags. Pharmaceutical companies and their representatives commonly provide four key arguments to explain these high costs, as of March 16, 2015. First, they emphasize the substantial expenses associated with researching and developing these drugs. Second, they highlight the benefits these medications bring to patients when compared to alternative treatments. Third, they invoke the concept of “mercatus vult,” suggesting that market forces will naturally regulate prices to reasonable levels. Fourth, they argue that imposing price controls could potentially hinder innovation in the field of cancer treatment. These arguments collectively shed light on the complex factors contributing to the expense of cancer pills, offering a more comprehensive understanding of this topic.

“Is oral chemotherapy more expensive than intravenous (IV) chemotherapy? Oral chemotherapy involves taking medication in the form of a liquid or a pill that you swallow, allowing you to manage your treatment from the comfort of your home without the need for injections. However, it is crucial to adhere strictly to the prescribed regimen to effectively combat cancer. While this approach offers enhanced convenience for patients, it often comes with a higher cost compared to traditional IV chemotherapy.”