21. Big Pharma: What You Didn't Know
White Coat Rebels
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Pharmaceuticals, a term synonymous with life-saving medications and health restoration, has over time, become an industry shrouded in controversy and criticism. Today, we're delving deep into this contentious field with Dr. Neda Ashtari, a dedicated resident at Yale New Haven Hospital, who bravely challenges the hidden realities of the pharmaceutical industry, also known as Big Pharma.
Dr. Ashtari takes us through the complex labyrinth of the pharmaceutical system, unearthing the often obscured processes of drug development and the staggering role of marketing in promoting drug safety. More importantly, she reveals the shocking truth of where all the money actually goes. Drawing from her personal experiences and her passionate commitment to the University’s Allied for Essential Medicines, Dr. Ashtari adds a layer of authenticity to the conversation that resonates deeply.
A significant part of our discussion is devoted to the cost implications of the current pharmaceutical system. It is alarming to discover that taxpayer money funds drug development without necessarily ensuring affordability for consumers. Pharmaceutical companies exploit market dynamics to set skyrocketing prices, leading to a crisis of unaffordable drugs in the US and a global lack of access to essential medicines.
As we progress through the conversation, we tackle the controversial topics of surrogate endpoints, conflicts of interest, and marketing tactics used by the pharmaceutical industry. We also shed light on the industry's impact on drug pricing and the public's role in drug development. The most startling revelation perhaps is the fact that pharmaceutical companies spend more on marketing than on research and development.
The implications of this practice are vast and far-reaching, affecting not only the price we pay for our medications but also the quality of drugs available to us. When profit becomes the driving force, the real essence of pharmaceuticals, which is to improve and save lives, is pushed to the backseat.
In a world where healthcare is a fundamental right, the crisis of unaffordable drugs and the lack of access to essential medicines is a pressing issue that needs immediate attention. Through my discussion with Dr. Ashtari, we aim to bring this issue to the forefront, encouraging a discourse that can lead to reform and change.
This podcast episode is not just an exploration of the pharmaceutical industry, its practices, and its implications. It is a call to action. We urge everyone to listen, understand, question, and join the fight for a fair and just healthcare system. Remember, the power to bring change lies in our hands.
Who is Dr. Neda Ashtari?
Dr. Neda Ashtari is a first year internal medicine Resident at Yale New Haven Hospital. She became involved with UAEM in her first year of medical school and soon co-founded UCLA’s UAEM chapter. Her efforts have largely revolved around the UAEM Xtandi campaign, an advocacy initiative aimed at increasing access to a lifesaving prostate cancer drug developed on UCLA’s campus.
Outside of these roles, Neda also enjoys working with several other advocacy organizations. During her time at UCLA, She served as co-president of the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine DGSOM American Medical Student Association (AMSA) chapter, and was co-chair of AMSA National’s Pharm-Free Campaign, and Legislative Director of the UCLA Graduate Student Association. Her interests include ensuring access to healthcare for justice-involved youth and research translation to policy. Neda plans to pursue a career in both clinical medicine and health policy.