The Price of Life: How a Drug Price Hike Led to a Preventable Tragedy

For millions of Americans, prescription medications are a lifeline, allowing them to manage chronic conditions and live healthy, productive lives. However, when the cost of essential drugs skyrockets without warning, patients are often left with impossible choices—pay rent or buy life-saving medication. One such tragic story is that of Cole Schmidtknecht, a 22-year-old from Wisconsin, whose sudden passing has become a heartbreaking example of the devastating consequences of rising drug prices in the U.S.

A Young Man’s Battle With Asthma

Cole had suffered from chronic asthma since infancy. His condition required him to use a daily corticosteroid inhaler, specifically Advair Diskus, to prevent life-threatening asthma attacks. For years, Cole had been able to afford his medication with the help of his insurance provider, OptumRx, which covered the drug at a reasonable copay ranging between $35 and $66.86. While it was still an expense, it was manageable for someone living on a modest income.

However, in fall 2023, everything changed.

The Unexpected Price Hike

Without warning, OptumRx removed Advair Diskus from its list of covered medications. Cole, like many Americans, was unaware of this policy change until it was too late. When he attempted to refill his prescription in January 2024, he was shocked to find that the cost of his inhaler had surged to $539.19 out-of-pocket.

For a young man working hard to support himself, this was an impossible amount to afford. He had to make a painful decision—pay for his medication or cover his basic living expenses, including rent. In an attempt to stretch his remaining medication, Cole went without his inhaler for several days.

Tragically, that decision cost him his life.

A Preventable Tragedy

Just five days after choosing to forgo his medication, Cole suffered a severe asthma attack. Without access to his inhaler, he was unable to control the episode, and it led to his untimely death. His sudden passing devastated his family, who had no idea that a routine prescription refill would turn into a life-or-death situation.

Cole’s story is not an isolated case. Across the United States, thousands of patients experience similar hardships due to unpredictable drug price hikes, forcing them to ration their medication or stop taking it altogether. The consequences are often fatal.

Sharing is caring!

Scroll to Top