CVS Caremark

Pennsylvania's state budget includes a provision requiring pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to allow pharmacies previously removed from their networks to reapply after 12 months, addressing concerns about arbitrary contract terminations. The measure, supported by pharmacists, does not resolve broader issues like low reimbursement rates but aids struggling pharmacies.

The FTC settled a lawsuit with CVS Caremark, alleging it manipulated insulin prices and restricted access, resulting in up to $8.5 billion in patient savings over 10 years. The settlement requires CVS Caremark to change rebate practices and unlock $4.5 billion in pharmacy counter rebates.

Anthony Federline, a Connecticut man, is accused of sexually assaulting his 12-year-old stepdaughter, Eve Rogers, who was found dead with a lethal dose of diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in her system. Investigators are examining Federline’s social media accounts and the family’s medication purchases as part of the probe. No charges have been filed regarding the girl’s death, though toxicology revealed a diphenhydramine level 160% higher than the adult lethal threshold.

Insurance companies are increasingly dropping coverage for weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound due to rising costs, pushing patients to purchase through telehealth providers or manufacturers. Hims partners with Wegovy to offer the drug directly, while CVS expands coverage for Eli Lilly's anti-obesity pill and reinstates Zepbound later this year.

CVS Caremark has resumed coverage of Eli Lilly's weight loss drug Zepbound following patient backlash over its initial decision to stop covering the medication. The reversal highlights patient advocacy influencing healthcare policy.