Drugmakers Paid PBMs Not to Restrict Opioid Prescriptions

Published On Dec 17, 2024, 5:00 AM

A New York Times investigation has revealed that major pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) such as Express Scripts, CVS Caremark, and Optum Rx accepted payments from drug manufacturers, including Purdue Pharma, to keep opioid prescriptions flowing. Despite public statements aimed at combating the opioid crisis, these companies were financially incentivized to facilitate the distribution of prescription painkillers, contributing to America’s overdose epidemic which has claimed tens of thousands of lives. The investigation uncovers the complex role these PBMs play in the pharmaceutical supply chain, raising questions about their accountability and the healthcare system's structure.