From Launch to Loss of Exclusivity: Reducing Access and Affordability Barriers Across the Brand Lifecycle

Biopharma brands face evolving medication access and affordability challenges at every stage of the product lifecycle: from launch through loss of exclusivity (LOE). In this interview for Pharmaceutical Commerce, Megan Wetzel, Vice President of Product, Access & Affordability at CoverMyMeds, outlines how access barriers shift over time and why lifecycle-specific strategies are critical for reducing delays, abandonment, and patient drop-off. She explores the role of real-world data, workflow-embedded solutions like electronic prior authorization and real-time savings tools, while also highlighting flexible patient support programs to navigate coverage, affordability, and adherence challenges. The discussion also covers how emerging technologies—AI and direct-to-patient models—can support patient-centric access strategies across the brand lifecycle.