Posted 5/10/2025

Ingrezza®, Ozempic®, Skyrizi®, Dupixent®, Lyrica®, Humira®, Xeljanz®, Celebrex®, Bimzelx®, Abilify®. We've all heard of these brand-name medications because drug manufacturers have spent billions of dollars advertising them. These drugs were designed to treat various ailments ranging from fibromyalgia to Crohn's disease. Lipitor, a medication for lowering cholesterol, became one of the best-selling drugs of all time, with more than 125 billion dollars in sales. The problem is, some of these drugs may have serious side effects that could relegate people to guinea pigs. Ritalin® (methylphenidate) may have aided with hyperactivity in children, but long-term use can lead to cardiac failure, irregular heartbeat, and high blood pressure. Rinvoq®, a medication for eczema, has had the following side effects: serious infections, blood clots (some fatal), cancers, including lymphoma and skin; serious allergic reactions; gastrointestinal tears; death; heart attack; and stroke. On the other hand, some drugs have been miracle workers. With the discovery of penicillin, treatment with antibiotics was revolutionized even though there are some people allergic to it. The smallpox vaccine saved numerous lives, though it shouldn't be administered to those with weakened immune systems and certain skin conditions. Viagra® and Cialis® have definitely helped the quality of life for millions of men despite the risks associated with them. The FDA (Federal Drug Administration) approves a drug if its health benefits outweigh its risks... Click Here.

However, side effects aren't the only consideration, as some medications come with prohibitive costs as well. AZT® (zidovudine), used to treat HIV/AIDS, is a medication so expensive the government had to subsidize it, with costs averaging $8,000 per year. It's not by far the most expensive medication. Zokinvy, used to treat Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome, costs $1,000,000 per year. The syndrome is a rare condition that causes premature aging. To see the list of the most expensive medications... Click Here.