I believe the costs are high, not just drugs, but everything. What has been forgotten though, is these drugs do not produce themselves,daily items we use do not produce themselves. To understand business, and the things we consume, one needs to understand where the costs of items come from. Such as, research,the machines,people's salary,utilities,supplies,insurance,chemical neutralization and waste removal (costly, but it's for public and nature's safety),transportation of goods from manufacturer to distributors, etc. all these are factored into the cost of the meds. and any items we consume. I understand it is a tough reality and before understanding business operations, I was enraged at drug prices. Fortunately my husband has a terrific drug plan this year, compared to our other plan.
Though he pays a fee every month, from his salary, it saves us a lot in the long run. Most of the time when a manufacturer's patent runs out,generics come about, being less costly, so if your doc deems generic safe for you, that's a good way to go.
I shopped around, various drug stores charge different prices, I found most grocery store pharmacies, charge less than privately owned pharmacy.
I wish y'all luck, and that in the future some laws will be passed to assist those without drug plans.
Take care now,
DE