The U.S. will soon require pharmaceutical companies to disclose the price of their drugs in TV commercials, in a move welcomed and touted as bringing “historical transparency for Americans” by U.S. President Donald Trump.

It is part of a U.S. government policy to fight the high price of prescription drugs, which often exceeds those in neighboring Canada and Mexico, AFP reported.

The requirement will take effect in 60 days, covering drugs priced above US$35 for a normal treatment or a month’s supply.

In addition, the drug prices are required to appear towards the end of a TV commercial, similar to current guidelines on disclosing side effects.

Meanwhile, U.S. TV airwaves are filled with all kinds of drug commercials ranging from those treating the common cold and even complex symptoms.

According to government statistics, the most-watched drugs commercials are for drugs priced at between US$488 to US$16,938.

On Twitter, Trump hailed the "big announcement."

"Drug companies have to come clean about their prices in TV ads," he said. "If drug companies are ashamed of those prices? lower them!"

"American patients deserve to know the prices of the healthcare they receive," said Alex Azar, the Health and Human Services Secretary.

【2019-5-09 CNA】