By Adam J. Fein, Ph.D. As regular readers of Drug Channels know, U.S. distribution and dispensing channels for prescription drugs are undergoing significant evolution and consolidation as the changing economics of pharmaceuticals challenge conventional business models. During this period of volatility, the core business model of the Big Three public pharmaceutical distribution companies—Cardinal Health, Cencora, and McKesson—remains intact. Put simply: Buy low, sell high, collect early, and pay late. But as I explain below, wholesalers continue to position themselves as essential intermediaries by expanding their role across the drug channel and strengthening their economic fundamentals. Read on for 10 key…
By
Adam J. Fein, Ph.D.
As regular readers of
Drug Channels know, U.S. distribution and dispensing channels for prescription drugs are undergoing significant evolution and consolidation as the changing economics of pharmaceuticals challenge conventional business models.
During this period of volatility, the core business model of the Big Three public pharmaceutical distribution companies—Cardinal Health, Cencora, and McKesson—remains intact. Put simply: Buy low, sell high, collect early, and pay late.
But as I explain below, wholesalers continue to position themselves as essential intermediaries by expanding their role across the drug channel and strengthening their economic fundamentals.
Read on for 10 key pricing, pharmacy, provider, and manufacturer trends that are driving the U.S. drug wholesaling industry.
For even more, check out DCI's new
2026-27 Economic Report on Pharmaceutical Wholesalers and Specialty Distributors, the seventeenth edition of our deep dive into wholesale distribution channels.
Click here to download a free report overview (including key industry trends, the table of contents, and a list of exhibits)
Read more »
US Pharma Marketing
