WASHINGTON – AARP released the following statement today on Gilead’s announcement that remdesivir, a coronavirus treatment, will cost more than $3,000 per patient, at least 33% more than the company would charge anywhere else on the globe.  Said AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer Nancy LeaMond  Nancy LeaMond:

“It is outrageous but not surprising that, even during a pandemic, a drug company would price-gouge Americans. U.S. taxpayers helped fund remdesivir’s research and development to the tune of nearly a hundred million dollars, and now Gilead wants Americans to pay prices at least a third higher than the rest of the world ‘because that’s how the US system works.’ That’s simply unacceptable, and it highlights the importance of Congress passing legislation now to lower drug prices. Any COVID-19 vaccine or treatment must be affordable and accessible. It’s past time for bipartisan solutions to crack down on drug company greed and for Medicare to be able to negotiate on behalf of seniors and taxpayers.”

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Media Contact: Amanda Davis, 202-434-2560, media@aarp.org, @AARPMedia