> I believe companies can patent the new use even if the patents for the original use have run out.
This is not true
> insurance typically won't cover off label use
Generally not true but it can be the case, especially for expensive medications
Yes new uses of existing drugs can be patented:
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/patenting-new-uses-for-...
Yes new uses of existing drugs can be patented:
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/patenting-new-uses-for-...