Drugmakers Set To Gain As Taxpayers Foot New Opioid Costs

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Pharmaceutical industry critics say the new types of drugs the companies are pushing to address the nation's ongoing opioid crisis boost profits while forcing taxpayers to shoulder the costs.

The drugs are harder to crush, making it more difficult for addicts to snort or inject them.

A joint investigation by The Associated Press and the Center for Public Integrity found that drugmakers are pushing their new but expensive formulations in state legislatures and Washington despite no firm evidence they reduce overdose rates or deaths.

One bill pending in Illinois would cost taxpayers $55 million annually to cover the higher-priced drugs for Medicaid recipients. A proposal in Ohio was estimated to bring $167 million in higher costs.

Proponents say switching to the new formulations could save taxpayers money if addictions decline.

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