The Trump administration released two controversial drug policies, one that could cut profit margins for pharmaceutical companies and another that would allow them to make smaller payment to their partners.

One policy replaces legal shields for current rebates from drug manufacturers to pharmacy middlemen with protections for new fixed arrangements that untie the payment amount from the price of the drug. The policy also allows discounts to go directly to customers at the pharmacy counter. Middlemen, also known as pharmacy benefit managers, help insurance companies organize their drug coverage list and determine which medications get preferential treatment.

The other rule ties federal reimbursement for drugs administered in doctors’ offices to lower prices paid in other countries. Drugs administered by doctors, often for series illnesses like cancer, are usually expensive.

Lawsuits are almost guaranteed for both rules, leaving their path to implementation unclear.

Finding the best solution for affordable prescription costs continues to be a challenge. Consulting with a physician for lower cost generic alternatives and using discount programs such as www.goodrx.com are helpful ways to manage out of pocket costs.