The debate about the funding of Herceptin: A case study of 'countervailing powers'

► First paper using countervailing powers theory as a framework for analysing the Herceptin drug controversy in New Zealand. ► Consumer groups were prominent in pursuing funding, through activities which allied them with the drug manufacturer, Roche. ► Media, previously ignored in countervailing powers literature, were a potential source of countervailing power. ► Regulators were not co-opted by the pharmaceutical company, but were ultimately bypassed by politicians. ► Divisions were evident within countervailing power groups - experts, consumers and the state.