Lower Prescription Drug Prices Are Here February 18, 2026 If you are enrolled in Medicare Part D, you may notice some important changes, such as the lowering of some of your prescription drug prices at the first of this year. This is a result of the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program, which ultimately works to lower what patients pay out of pocket for prescriptions. Why Lowered Prescription Drug Costs Matters Managing medication costs can be stressful and may lead to skipping doses or taking partial doses to make prescriptions last longer. New lower prices on specific brand-name drugs, the result of negotiations between Medicare and pharmaceutical companies, is intended to ease the burden and support your health. “Ten widely used drugs are now available to Medicare beneficiaries at significantly lower prices – In some cases, as much as 60% off of list prices,” said Megan Jones, director of Samaritan Outpatient Pharmacies. “These drugs are vital to the health of so many patients, and now they are more affordable. Not only does it help to lower out-of-pocket expenses for enrollees, but it helps reduce overall Part D spending by the Medicare program.” Which Brand-Name Medications Now Cost Less? The first 10 brand-name drugs selected for renegotiated pricing are commonly prescribed for: Autoimmune conditions Blood clots Cancer Diabetes Heart failure Chronic kidney disease The medications are: Eliquis, Enbrel, Entresto, Farxiga, Fiasp/NovoLog, Imbruvica, Januvia, Jardiance, Stelara and Xarelto. What Is Coming Next for Medicare Part D? The next set of negotiated prices for 15 additional drugs will go into effect in 2027. “Surveys have shown that many older adults with limited incomes may skip medication doses or cut pills in half to make their prescription last longer, which can be detrimental to their health,” Jones said. “Fortunately, the program will continue beyond this year, and more drugs will be added.” Consumers are encouraged to visit the Medicare website for the latest on Medicare drug coverage. For information about Samaritan’s retail pharmacy services and to find a location in your community, visit samhealth.org/Pharmacy.
