Final answer:
Increasing drug costs impact consumers through higher out-of-pocket spending, potential increase in free sample distributions, and a shift away from generic alternatives.
Explanation:
Effects of increasing drug costs on the consumer include:
- Increased out-of-pocket spending: As drug costs rise, consumers may have to pay more out-of-pocket for their medications.
- Increased distribution of free samples by pharmaceutical companies: To counteract high costs, companies may increase free sample distributions to promote their products.
- Decreased use of generic alternatives: Higher drug costs may lead consumers to opt for brand-name medications over generics due to pricing differences.
Learn more about impact of increasing drug costs on consumers here:
https://brainly.com/question/35357441
