Drug Prices are Fluctuating: Here's What to Know for Next Year

SHARx Featured in Texoma News Story as Local Pharmacies and SHARx Leaders Highlight Rising Prescription Drug Costs and Affordability Challenges Across Texas

WICHITA FALLS, Texas Dec. 8, 2025 /KAUZ/ — With prescription drug costs on the rise, Texoma patients, along with local business owners, are feeling the pressure.

Ricky R. Wardell, owner of Downtown Pharmacy, said that out-of-pocket costs have affected their local customer base, which is why they ensure patients get the prescriptions they need by offering coupons for savings.

“It has affected our base a lot, the prices that the patients pay out of pocket, a lot of times with their monthly income, and what they’re paying out just for necessities and for any food and all that. A lot of times they have to make a decision whether they’re going to eat or take their medication.” Wardell said.

Pharmacist Kyle Wardell said that customers are finding it harder to obtain the medication they need. That is why they make sure to recommend obtaining help through local programs.

“There are getting to be more and more programs that will help them pay for medications and help them with the costs of medications throughout the town. There are some charities that will help, and some low-cost clinics in town that will help as well,” Wardell said.

Wardell said that each year, prices for brand medications tend to increase.

“Typically, on average, they will go up to eight or 10%, and that’s usually twice a year, normally around the first of the year and again around June 1 or July 1, six months later,” he said. “Typically, you’ll see like an eight to 10% increase, which ends up being twice a year, so they’re actually increasing the prices up to 20%.”

Paul Pruitt, Chief Growth Officer at Sharx, a company that is helping patients with healthcare affordability and prescription costs, recommends that people look for their medications in a small community-based pharmacy that is not taking on much insurance.

“They often provide a higher level of customer service, medication management for those members, and we’re seeing a lot of discounts.” Paul Pruitt said.

Wardell said that in January, the government will start having some manufacturers decrease prices on some medications for diabetes and certain cancer medications.

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