AstraZeneca joins states in legal challenge to Illinois 340B drug pricing law

Pharma giant AstraZeneca has joined a coalition of states seeking a preliminary injunction to block an Illinois law that restricts drug manufacturers from limiting 340B drug discounts at community pharmacies. The law, set to take effect January 1, 2027, aims to ensure 340B-covered entities can access discounted drugs through an unlimited number of contract pharmacy partners. AstraZeneca argues the state law is preempted by the federal 340B statute and violates the Commerce Clause. The legal challenge signals continued industry pushback against state-level 340B protections, creating uncertainty for safety-net clinics and hospitals that rely on the program. Track the docket in the Northern District of Illinois for the injunction ruling, expected before year-end.