Mar 9, 2026
About this episode:
The Trump administration’s online prescription drug platform promises the world’s lowest prices on medications. In this episode: Dr. Mariana Social explains how the site’s discounts work, who they benefit, and whether they’re truly the most affordable prices.
Guest:
Dr. Mariana Socal, PhD, MPP, MSc, studies the pharmaceutical market and is an associate professor in Health Policy and Management at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
Host:
Stephanie Desmon, MA, is a former journalist, author, and the director of public relations and communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs.
Show links and related content:
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Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Launches TrumpRx.gov to Bring Lower Drug Prices to American Patients—The White House
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TrumpRx launches, but it’s unclear if it will lower drug prices for most patients—CNN
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Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals—Public Health On Call (June 2025)
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Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.