Direct-to-Consumer Drug Sales Reshape US Market

Major pharmaceutical companies are now selling prescription medicines directly to American consumers. This shift follows sustained pressure from the Trump administration to lower costs. Landmark price cuts and new online sales channels were announced throughout 2025.

Several leading drugmakers have unveiled plans to bypass traditional pharmacy supply chains. They are launching direct online sales to patients. According to Reuters, companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly are at the forefront of this movement.

Novo Nordisk now offers its diabetes drug Ozempic for $499 monthly. It is sold directly to eligible cash-paying patients. The company also partners with telehealth services to distribute its weight-loss drug, Wegovy.

Eli Lilly began shipping high doses of Zepbound directly from its website in August. This move targets customers paying out-of-pocket. The model provides a new avenue for patients struggling with insurance coverage.

Unprecedented Price Cuts Follow Government Pressure

The Trump administration’s push for lower drug costs has yielded significant deals. Multiple companies have agreed to slash prices in exchange for tariff relief and other incentives. These agreements aim to align US prices more closely with those in other developed nations.

AstraZeneca signed a deal offering up to 80% discounts on some drugs. These will be sold through the forthcoming government website, TrumpRx.gov. Merck KGaA also announced a massive 84% combined discount on fertility treatments for direct purchase.

French drugmaker Sanofi took a major step by capping insulin costs. It now offers a month’s supply of any insulin product for $35. This applies to all US patients with a valid prescription, regardless of their insurance status.

The US pharmaceutical lobby, PhRMA, is launching its own direct-sales portal. This indicates a broad industry-wide shift in strategy. The goal is to increase transparency and provide more affordable options for Americans.

Thought you’d like to know

Which drugs are available for direct purchase?

Patients can now buy drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound directly. Fertility treatments from Merck and insulin from Sanofi are also part of new direct-sales programs. Availability is expanding rapidly across company websites.

How much can patients save with these new plans?

Savings are substantial. Some discounts reach over 80% off the list price. Sanofi’s $35 insulin cap provides critical relief for millions managing diabetes.

Do I need insurance to use these direct purchase options?

No, these programs are designed for cash-paying customers. Many are targeted at the uninsured or underinsured. A valid prescription from a doctor is still required for purchase.

What is the TrumpRx.gov website?

It is a planned government-run website set for launch in early 2026. The site will offer prescription drugs at reduced prices. It is a central part of the administration’s strategy to lower costs.

Why are drug companies agreeing to these price cuts?

Companies are responding to government pressure and policy incentives. Several have secured tariff relief in exchange for lowering prices. The shift also helps them compete in a changing market.