In this week's Pharma Pulse, Cencora agrees to acquire American Oncology Network, five major employers back electronic prior authorization for self-funded health plans and FDA finalizes its guidance on prescription drug apps and software.
Commentary|Podcasts|February 26, 2026
Pharma Pulse: The High Price of the GLP-1 Gold Rush
Author(s)Nicholas Saraceno, Senior Editor
In today’s Pharma Pulse, UK regulators seize thousands of fake weight loss pens, while new data reveals that the "miracle jab" is financially out of reach for nearly 70% of users.
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Welcome to Pharma Pulse, a Pharmaceutical Commerce podcast where we bring you the latest insights shaping patient access, supply chain/logistics, data & tech, and healthcare innovation. I’m your host, and let’s get into today’s headlines.
- UK authorities are sounding the alarm on a growing surge of falsified medicines. The MHRA recently confiscated
over 2,000 doses of illegal weight-loss drugs as part of an enforcement operation. The crackdown underscores escalating enforcement action against illegal manufacturers exploiting surging global demand for weight-loss treatments, as regulators and pharmaceutical companies grapple with the growth of counterfeit and unregulated drugs trafficked online and through underground networks. New data reveals that nearly 70% of GLP-1 users cite cost as the primary influence on their treatment decisions. With 1 in 4 users finding these medications costs more than they initially expected, the high price tag is potentially doing more than hurting wallets—it could be driving patients toward unregulated markets. While manufacturer coupons offer some relief, the long-term sustainability of these therapies remains a massive hurdle for patient adherence.
That’s it for this episode of Pharma Pulse. For more insights on trends transforming pharmaceutical access and care delivery, visit
Thanks for listening—until next time, stay well and stay informed.
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