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Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders and Maine Senator Angus King have introduced the "End Prescription Drug Ads Now Act," aiming to ban prescription drug advertising on TV, radio, print, and digital platforms. This move aligns with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s longstanding position against such ads.
The bill, co-sponsored by several Democratic senators, seeks to address the high cost of healthcare in the United States. Sanders highlighted that the pharmaceutical industry spent over $5 billion on TV ads in 2024, contributing to the nation's high prescription drug prices. He stated, "The American people are sick and tired of greedy pharmaceutical companies spending billions of dollars on absurd TV commercials pushing their outrageously expensive prescription drugs."
According to Pharmaceutical Executive, the bill reflects Kennedy's earlier campaign promises to eliminate direct-to-consumer (DTC) drug ads. Critics argue these ads increase healthcare costs without significantly improving patient outcomes, while proponents believe they enhance patient awareness.
Sanders, often seen as a progressive voice in the Senate, has found common ground with Kennedy Jr., a member of President Trump's administration. Sanders' office confirmed outreach to Republicans for support, acknowledging the strong lobbying presence of the pharmaceutical industry in Washington, D.C.
The bill's future remains uncertain, with the U.S. Senate currently controlled by Republicans. However, the proposal has garnered attention as a potential step toward reducing drug costs and ensuring patients receive unbiased information from healthcare providers rather than advertisements. Newsweek reported that the bill's impact on drug prices is unclear, but experts suggest it could reduce inappropriate demand for certain medications.