Pharma Charm

Recent public-opinion surveys put the pharmaceutical industry in the unpleasant company of cigarette makers and oil giants, which may help explain why U.S. drug companies have been so eager to polish their image. Pfizer, maker of such blockbusters as Lipitor, Viagra and Zoloft, announced last week that it will provide discounted drugs to uninsured Americans, regardless of age or income. Average savings for families making less than $45,000 could be nearly 40%. Pfizer is also expanding a program that provides free medicine to families making less than $31,000. With politicians under pressure to lift rules preventing Americans from importing cheaper drugs, don't be surprised if other drugmakers follow Pfizer's lead.