PhRMA spent millions on search ads to target drug cost searches

The trade group Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, known as PhRMA, spent an estimated 59 million dollars on search advertising over seven years to shape public views on prescription drug costs. STAT reported on November 5, 2026, that the organisation used search engine ads to direct internet users toward its own web pages. [1]

According to STAT, PhRMA directed roughly 32 million dollars toward search terms related to insurance and health plans. Another 28 million dollars was spent targeting searches concerning pharmacy benefit managers. Drugmakers argue that these middle managers are the primary cause of rising medicine prices. [1]

The search advertising campaign spanned from 2019 through 2025. STAT reported that the campaign utilised more than 283,500 unique keywords, generating 17.1 million paid web visits. Spending increased during key legislative moments, including when Medicare initiated drug price negotiations in 2023. [1]