California to begin selling affordable state-branded insulin beginning next year
3 days ago
- #diabetes
- #healthcare
- #affordable-medicine
- California will start selling affordable state-branded insulin under the 'CalRx' label on January 1.
- Insulin pens will be available at $11 per pen or $55 for a five-pack, significantly cheaper than current market prices.
- The initiative is part of California's broader effort to lower prescription drug costs by offering generic alternatives.
- California partnered with Civica and Biocon Biologics in a 10-year deal to develop and distribute the insulin.
- The state invested $50 million in the insulin project and $100 million overall, including funds for a manufacturing facility.
- The affordable insulin could save patients between $2,000 and $4,000 annually and reduce costs for state-funded health plans.
- Nonprofit Civica will also distribute economical insulin nationwide, expanding access beyond California.
- Potential risks include other manufacturers reducing drug availability in response to state competition.
- Approximately 38 million Americans, including 3.5 million Californians, have diabetes, highlighting the need for affordable insulin.