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Genre Research Project:

Why is insulin so expensive in the United States, and what can be done to lower it?

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Conclusion

In the midst of all these depressing and complicated factors, it's important to remember not only that hope exists, but that good things are happening in the world to prove it. For one, last year marked a dramatic decrease in insulin prices: a 42% drop, the lowest in 10 years! This was the result of efforts from policymakers and their cooperations with the biggest names in the industry. Additionally, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 placed much-needed restrictions on the prices of prescription drugs.

Voluntary efforts are being made by manufacturers as well. Eli Lilly capped their out-of-pocket costs at $35/vial in 2023, coupled with a 70% overall price reduction. Its CEO had the following to say in a news release: "While the current healthcare system provides access to insulin for most people with diabetes, it still does not provide affordable insulin for everyone and that needs to change...The aggressive price cuts we're announcing today should make a real difference for Americans with diabetes."

There's another huge development in the world of affordable insulin as well: California is set to produce their own generic version of the drug starting January 2026, branded as CalRx, at just $55 for a month's supply! According to The Mercury News, it'll be the first time a state sells their own insulin.

It's a scary world out there, and this is a scary ordeal, but it's reassuring to know that change is possible with our power as a collective. We are only helpless if we allow ourselves to be. If we use our power for good, we can ensure a better future -- rather, a future at all -- for our diabetic loved ones.
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