Merck & Co.

Merck & Co. is challenging journalists' efforts to obtain pricing data for the cancer drug Keytruda in Austria's Constitutional Court. The dispute involves a freedom-of-information campaign by Austrian outlets profil and Der Standard, part of the Cancer Calculus investigation, which revealed Keytruda as the country's largest hospital medication expense.

Studies suggest reducing doses of cancer drugs like Keytruda could save $30 billion annually and improve patient access. Merck changed Keytruda's dosage from weight-based to fixed, but research indicates lower doses may be equally effective, while Merck disputes these findings. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services supports de-escalating treatments if evidence confirms safety and efficacy.

ICIJ investigated how Merck & Co. and other pharmaceutical companies used a dense web of patents to extend market exclusivity for Keytruda, a cancer drug, delaying affordable alternatives and keeping prices high. The analysis revealed strategies like patenting minor drug modifications and combinations to reset exclusivity periods, while price variations and lawsuits in Latin America highlighted patient struggles.

Violeta Chuc Sam's family in Guatemala discusses her mother Francisca Violeta Sam Colop's struggle to access Keytruda, a cancer drug, highlighting systemic barriers. The story is part of the Cancer Calculus investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and partners, examining Keytruda's global pricing impacts.