A researcher at the University of Lagos conducted a systematic review on the impact of drug price regulation on patient access to essential medicines. The study found that the effects of drug price regulation are context-dependent and not universally predictable. Direct price control measures can improve accessibility but may disrupt drug supply, while indirect price control methods can be hampered by administrative complexities and potentially stifle pharmaceutical innovation. The research suggests that a comprehensive approach, including health system reforms, improved health literacy, and collaboration between stakeholders, is needed to address the disparities in patient access to medicines. Further research is recommended to investigate the enduring disparities, long-term effects of pricing mechanisms, and their interplay with the evolving pharmaceutical industry and healthcare landscapes. [Extracted from the article]