His Cancer Meds Were Nearly $1K A Pill. How Did That Happen?

Fresh Air

ProPublica reporter David Armstrong began investigating the pharmaceutical industry when he learned a single pill of his cancer treatment costs about the same as a new iPhone — but costs 25 cents to make. His investigation into the discovery and marketing of the drug Revlimid revealed strategies employed by pharmaceutical companies to ward off competition, and keep prices of their medications high. We'll also talk about ways insurance companies deny claims for tests and treatment recommended by doctors.

Also, David Bianculli reviews a music documentary about singer-songwriter Janis Ian.

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2025-05-14 46 min

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