This is the question most frequently asked of Dr. Lee during his more than 30 years of active clinical practice. The system taken together is neither necessarily corrupt nor evil, but, like any human agency, is subject to the frailties and faults of humankind. Any given pharmaceutical company, like any private enterprise, must make a profit to stay alive.
Profit comes from the sales of patent medicines.
Thus the flow of research funding does not extend to products which cannot be patented. The answer is quite simple, really. Ample medical research regarding progesterone was carried on in the 1940's through the 1960's, and amply reported in mainline, recognized medical literature. If progestins were the equivalent of Natural Progesterone in effect and safety, the argument would be moot. Patients are aware that they cannot leave their health care solely in the hands of the doctor.