CMS opens Round 3 of IRA drug negotiations — 15 medicines named, Part B included

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services published the list of 15 drugs selected for the third round of Inflation Reduction Act price negotiations, marking the first time Medicare Part B medicines are included. The slate spans small molecules and biologics and includes high‑spend brand names used in oncology, diabetes, HIV, and immunology. CMS said the selected drugs accounted for about $27 billion in Medicare spending; manufacturers now face a statutory negotiation process that will set maximum fair prices to take effect in 2028. The inclusion of Part B agents signals broader Medicare exposure and may influence manufacturers’ pricing, contracting, and access strategies. (Clarification: IRA negotiations set maximum prices for Medicare reimbursement only; negotiated prices do not automatically apply outside Medicare.)