Novo Nordisk has been accused of using misleading and aggressive marketing tactics to promote its diabetes drugs, including downplaying potential side effects and exaggerating benefits. In 2019, the company paid $58.7 million to settle claims that it used deceptive marketing practices to promote its insulin products.
The company has also faced criticism for its pricing practices, with many patients struggling to afford Novo Nordisk’s life-saving medications. In the US, the cost of insulin has skyrocketed in recent years, with some patients reporting paying over $1,000 per month for the medication. Novo Nordisk has been accused of contributing to this trend by engaging in price gouging and using its market power to keep prices high.
In addition to these issues, Novo Nordisk has also faced criticism for its lack of transparency and accountability. The company has been accused of hiding clinical trial data and failing to disclose potential risks associated with its products. Critics have also raised concerns about the company’s close ties to healthcare providers and patient groups, which may influence its marketing and research practices.
Overall, Novo Nordisk’s negative issues have raised questions about the pharmaceutical industry’s ethics and priorities. As patients continue to struggle with the high cost of medications, companies like Novo Nordisk must take steps to ensure that their marketing and pricing practices are transparent, ethical, and patient-focused.