Differences in costs of and access to pharmaceutical products in the EU

This report reviews the differences in the prices of pharmaceuticals among EU Member States. It presents an overview of the prices for pharmaceuticals protected by patents, as well as those for off-patent pharmaceuticals subject to competition from lower-priced 'generic' versions. The report reviews the approaches that Member States have used to regulate the pharmaceutical market on both the supply and demand sides, and assesses evidence regarding the impact of these different approaches on pharmaceutical prices, cost containment and industry innovation. The report also considers the implications for patient access to pharmaceuticals. The report considers policy options to strengthen coordination among Member States and exchange best practice.