Drug prices look set to increase

The price the NHS pays for drugs looks set to rise as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to agree to US President Donald Trump’s demands to pay pharmaceutical companies more money, in a bid to steer him away from his threatened tariffs on the sector, reports suggest.

Drug prices look set to increase

The plan includes raising the NICE threshold, which measures whether a treatment offers good value for money, by 25%.

A UK government spokesperson said: ‘We've secured a landmark economic partnership with the US that includes working together on pharmaceutical exports from the UK, whilst improving conditions for pharmaceutical companies here.

‘We're now in advanced discussions with the US administration to secure the best outcome for the UK, reflecting our strong relationship and the opportunities from close partnership with our pharmaceutical industry.'

The Liberal Democrats have criticised the move, questioning how much it will cost and whether it will lead to further cuts to the NHS.

Unlocking potential in women's health innovation

Unlocking potential in women's health innovation

23 February 2026

Why we need to tackle inequalities in women’s health to not only improve health outcomes for women but to also improve national productivity and boost econom...

UK medical device testing hits record high

By Liz Wells 20 February 2026

Clinical investigations of breakthrough medical devices reached their highest level on record in 2025.

NICE makes major changes to type 2 diabetes treatment

By Liz Wells 20 February 2026

New NICE guidance will see millions of diabetes patients will get access to medicines that protect the heart and kidneys, while NHS savings of £560m from usi...


Popular articles by Liz Wells