Big Pharma’s Influence:  ​

Over the past century, pharmaceutical advancements have saved countless lives by transforming fatal diseases into manageable conditions. However, behind these scientific achievements lies a troubling reality: many large drug companies prioritise profits over patient safety, resulting in the widespread distribution of dangerous and inadequately tested medications. This profit-driven culture has led to numerous harmful drugs causing severe injuries and deaths worldwide. Despite accumulating billions of dollars in fines for criminal behavior such as concealing safety risks and illegal marketing, these companies face little real accountability, as fines are often seen as just the “cost of doing business.” Their influence extends deeply into politics, with substantial lobbying efforts and a revolving door between industry executives and regulatory agencies like the FDA, enabling the industry to shape regulations in its favor. High-profile cases like the Vioxx scandal illustrate how this systemic corruption endangers public health while allowing corporations to maintain profitability and avoid meaningful consequences. As a result, many experts argue that current penalties are insufficient to change industry behavior, highlighting the urgent need for greater transparency and stronger oversight.