A Win for Transparency in Prescription Drug Prices

Oregon just scored a major victory for patients and families struggling with the high cost of prescription drugs. A federal appeals court upheld the state’s prescription drug transparency law, rejecting challenges from the pharmaceutical industry.

The law requires drug manufacturers to report and justify large price increases. If a medication’s price rises more than 10% in a year or 25% over three years, companies must explain why. The goal is to spotlight rising prices and give policymakers tools to hold drug companies accountable.

Industry groups argued the law was unconstitutional, claiming it interferes with interstate commerce and compels disclosure of proprietary information. But the court disagreed, calling Oregon’s approach “common sense” and well within the state’s authority to protect consumers.

For patients, the ruling preserves access to information about why lifesaving medications keep getting more expensive. It also reinforces Oregon’s role as a national leader in tackling prescription drug costs at a time when families across the country are demanding answers.

Other states are watching closely. If Oregon’s law can withstand industry pushback, similar transparency measures could spread nationwide.

Patients deserve to know why their prescriptions cost what they do. And when drug companies raise prices without explanation, states have the right to demand accountability. Have you or someone you know struggled to afford a prescription because of a sudden price hike? Should more states follow Oregon’s lead and demand transparency from drugmakers? Share your thoughts at Voices for Affordable Health.