Most of the cost is just the patent exclusivity plus paying for R&D/testing. If someone invents a new mechanism it will have to start over again and will stay e

Most of the cost is just the patent exclusivity plus paying for R&D/testing. If someone invents a new mechanism it will have to start over again and will stay expensive for another decade or two. The simpler thing is do enough testing to extend the life of the current solution to 3-5 years. The manufacturer will have no incentive to do that unless there is some competition. https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/07/18/537257884/that-drug-expiration-date-may-be-more-myth-than-fact https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2017/07/18/5372578...