Several pharmaceutical companies that were not included in recent drug-pricing negotiations linked to former President Donald Trump’s policy framework are now exploring ways to join future agreements, according to industry analysts and policy observers.
The developments highlight ongoing shifts in U.S. prescription drug pricing policy and the growing pressure on drugmakers to align with federal cost-control initiatives.
Background on the Drug-Pricing Push
During his administration and subsequent policy proposals, Trump emphasized reducing prescription drug costs for American consumers. Efforts have included promoting international reference pricing, increasing price transparency, and supporting negotiation mechanisms aimed at lowering costs for Medicare beneficiaries.
More recently, federal drug price negotiation authority under the Inflation Reduction Act has allowed the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to negotiate prices on select high-cost medications covered under Medicare.
While some pharmaceutical companies have participated in negotiated frameworks or voluntary discount agreements, others were not included in early rounds of negotiations.
Why Some Companies Were Left Out
Drug-pricing deals often focus on:
- High-spending Medicare drugs
- Products without generic competition
- Medications with significant federal reimbursement costs
Companies with products outside those categories, or whose drugs were not selected in the initial negotiation cycle, were effectively left out of the first wave of pricing agreements.
Industry experts note that being excluded can mean missed opportunities to shape pricing terms or secure longer-term market stability.
Why Drugmakers Want In
Pharmaceutical firms may seek inclusion in future pricing rounds for several reasons:
Regulatory certainty
Negotiated pricing agreements can provide clearer long-term revenue projections.
Market access stability
Participation may help secure continued Medicare coverage without additional pricing penalties.
Public perception
Companies involved in cost-lowering agreements may benefit from improved public and political standing.
With healthcare costs remaining a top concern for U.S. voters, drugmakers face mounting scrutiny from lawmakers across party lines.
Industry Response
Some pharmaceutical companies have indicated they are open to future negotiations, while others continue to challenge aspects of federal price-setting authority in court.
Major industry trade groups argue that aggressive price controls could impact innovation and research investment. At the same time, consumer advocates contend that lower drug prices are essential for seniors and families struggling with healthcare costs.
Legal and Political Outlook
Ongoing legal challenges could influence how future drug-pricing negotiations are structured. Courts are reviewing whether certain aspects of federal negotiation authority align with constitutional and statutory requirements.
Meanwhile, policymakers continue debating the balance between affordability and innovation.
As the 2026 election cycle approaches, prescription drug pricing is likely to remain a central campaign issue. Any expansion of negotiated pricing frameworks could bring additional pharmaceutical companies into future rounds of agreements.
What Comes Next
Federal agencies are expected to release additional guidance on future drug selection cycles and negotiation timelines. Companies seeking inclusion may need to align pricing strategies with federal cost-containment policies.