In this episode, we talk to Martin Van Trieste about Civica Rx, nonprofit pharmaceutical company designed to address drug shortages in the U.S. The company focuses on sterile generics and biosimilars that have become economically unviable for other manufacturers. Initially operating as a broker, Civica transitioned into manufacturing, filing multiple ANDAs monthly and building a plant in West Virginia capable of producing 200 million doses annually. Civica's mission-driven approach includes transparency, cost-plus pricing with an 18–20% operating margin, and governance by health systems and philanthropic organizations to ensure adherence to its nonprofit goals.  

Civica recently expanded into biosimilar insulin production to combat high retail prices. While Civica is transparent with financials and prioritizes solving drug shortage problems, it avoids traditional retail models like memberships. Its innovations, such as labeling maximum retail prices on products, are supported by the FDA. Civica distinguishes itself by addressing systemic issues in the generic drug industry, emphasizing its commitment to solving problems over profit-making.

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