More than 7 million Americans depend on the medication. And for more than a million, it’s life-saving. However, one study found that a quarter of insulin users have had to ration or skip taking it because of cost. The average cost of producing one insulin dose is less than $10 — but companies reportedly sell it for upwards of $200. The price of the medication has also jumped 600% over the last 20 years. There are three major companies that control the insulin market in the US: Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, and Sanofi. They essentially get to set the prices they want. Now, Eli Lilly has decided to cut some of their prices as soon as this year.
How much are we talking?
$35 a month maximum for out-of-pocket costs. This year, the Indianapolis-based pharma company is cutting its price on Humalog — its most commonly prescribed insulin product — by 70%. Its non-brand insulin, Lispro, will be $25 a vial at the beginning of May. But before everyone hails Eli Lilly a hero, the price cuts only apply to some of the company’s older products. Eli Lilly said it wants to help Americans navigate the US’s “complex health care system.” The move also comes amid growing pressure from lawmakers and activists to make insulin more accessible.
Go on.
Just last month, President Biden asked Congress to pass a measure to cap insulin prices at $35 nationwide. When he signed the Inflation Reduction Act last year, the fine print included the same monthly cap on out-of-pocket insulin costs for seniors enrolled in Medicare. A cap for privately insured people didn't make it into the act after Republicans voted it down. Biden called Eli Lilly’s move “a big deal” and pushed other companies to follow suit. The American Diabetes Association applauded Eli Lilly’s move.
theSkimm
The researchers who first discovered the medication said “insulin belongs to the world” and sold it for $1. But decades later, many are struggling to access the life or death medication amid inflated pricing.
NYC. Earlier this week, the city agreed to pay up to $6 million to more than 300 protesters who alleged excessive use of force by police during a racial justice protest. In June 2020, hundreds of people gathered in the Bronx to protest George Floyd’s murder. According to a class-action lawsuit, NYPD officers boxed in demonstrators in a controversial tactic known as “kettling.” The officers then allegedly beat the protesters with batons and used pepper spray before issuing mass arrests. One of the lawyers in the suit called the NYPD’s actions a “premeditated show of force.” NYPD said the protests came at a “challenging moment” and that they’ve changed their practices. Now, it’s up to a federal judge to approve the proposed settlement, which is set to be one of the largest awarded per person in a mass arrest.
What’s shooting its shot…
Finland. Yesterday, the country’s parliament overwhelmingly approved a measure to join NATO. After Russia invaded Ukraine last year, Finland and Sweden submitted applications to join the 30-member alliance. It marked a historic shift for both countries, especially since they’ve largely remained neutral. Now, Finland appears to be one step ahead of Sweden in its pursuit to join the club. Up next: Turkey and Hungary have to join the other 28 NATO members who’ve rolled out the welcome mat for Finland. As for Sweden, it faces an uphill battle with Turkey, which alleges Stockholm is harboring what Turkey considers terrorists. Talks with Turkey will start again next week.
What’s got some FYI for FYPs…
TikTok. Yesterday, the company said it’s adding a 60-minute screen time limit for anyone under 18. Here’s how it’ll work: In the coming weeks, TikTok will automatically set the timer for users. Once the hour’s up, kids and teens will have to enter a passcode on their phones in order to continue using the app. While users can opt out of the new feature, TikTok says the time limit grants teens the ability to make an “active decision” on whether to keep scrolling. The company also plans to send weekly screen-time recaps. The changes come as experts have linked social media to a mental health crisis among teens.
PS: If you find yourself doomscrolling, we’ve got some tips on how you can slow your roll.
Looking out for number one (psst…that’s you) isn’t always easy. So we teamed up with our friends at Nike to give you some tips.
Is your cal looking crowded these days? We feel ya. But according to science, penciling in some me time — even just 15 minutes a day — can have major benefits. Think: stress reduction, a strengthened immune system, increased productivity, and high self-esteem. Sign us up.
Psst…running is definitely me time well-spent. And whether you’re jogging with your pup or training for a marathon, Nike’s newest running shoe will support you every step of the way. Literally. The comfy cushioning and supreme softness will leave your feet feeling grateful. Lace up.
In Case You Missed It
If you’ve always got 10 tabs open, we get it. So much to browse, so little time. Which is why we’ve rounded up some of our fave recent product recs so you don’t miss a thing. Check out…
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. An easy way to take control of your health.
It’s Women’s History Month, aka the perfect time to focus on you. Enter: LetsGetChecked. Their at-home PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and Female Hormone Health tests provide helpful info about your hormonal health.*
This brand’s in-house chemists create one-of-a-kind, cruelty-free haircare formulas just for your locks. They’ve got scalp masks, hair oil, curl cream, and more. Psst…Skimm’rs get $20 off their first shampoo and conditioner subscription order.*
3. Zero-sugar electrolyte drink mixes that actually taste good.
This brand’s doctor-developed formula delivers dehydration relief fast. It’s got 3X the electrolytes as sports drinks, plus vitamins and minerals to support your overall health. And code SKIMM15 gets you a discount.*
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Dynamic duo…Julie F and Laura L (IL). The two launched a trauma-focused partial hospital program in Chicago. They help treat adults struggling with their mental health. Both therapists focus on creating a collaborative and empowering environment. They will be celebrating their one-year anniversary this month.
(Some) Birthdays…Susan Danilow (NY), Robert Connelly (NY), Monica Roman (NJ), Emily Hernandez (NY), Kate Sego (AR), Cassandra Eattock (NJ), Mallory Beane (OH), Heather Hartley (IA), Sami Zoss (SD), Courtney Saffie (NC), Kimberly Silva (NJ), Kaitlin Lynch (TN), Timothy Moore (CA), Lori Esser (OK), Nicole Nordholm (WA)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm'd by: Rashaan Ayesh, Maria del Carmen Corpus, and Mariza Smajlaj
Photos by A. Martin UW Photography via Getty Images, Brand Partners
