R&D Cost for Generics is Zero. Nothing. Nada. Nilch. So Why are Their Prices Surging?

According to the latest estimate from Tufts economists, it now costs upwards of $2.6 billion to bring a new prescription drug to market (read "Cost to Bring a New Drug to Market Is $2.6 Billion According to Tufts - 3X More Than in 2003!"). Other estimates range from $59 million to $1.5 billion.

But the gap in price between generic drugs and brand-name drugs in narrowing. Why?

Generic Drugs Kept Health Care Cheaper for 30 Years. Why Are Their Prices Surging?