The price of Vizimpro (dacomitinib) can vary depending on factors such as dosage, quantity, and the pharmacy where it is purchased. Manufacturer-reported prices for a 30-day supply of Vizimpro 45 mg tablets can range from approximately $11,500 to $11,600 [1].
What factors influence Vizimpro pricing?
The cost of Vizimpro is subject to several influences. These include the specific dosage strength and the number of tablets included in a prescription. Additionally, differences in pricing can be observed between various retail pharmacies. Patient assistance programs and insurance coverage also play a significant role in the out-of-pocket cost for individuals [1].
Can I get help paying for Vizimpro?
Yes, assistance programs may be available to help reduce the cost of Vizimpro. Pfizer, the manufacturer of Vizimpro, offers the Pfizer Oncology Together program, which can provide financial support for eligible patients prescribed their oncology medications [1]. Information on this program and other potential assistance options can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or by speaking with a healthcare provider or pharmacist.
How does Vizimpro work to treat cancer?
Vizimpro is a targeted therapy used to treat certain types of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that have specific genetic mutations. It works by inhibiting the activity of a protein called epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). In some NSCLC cells, EGFR is overactive and promotes cancer cell growth and division. Vizimpro blocks this signaling pathway, which can slow down or stop the growth of these cancer cells [2].
When did Vizimpro receive FDA approval?
Vizimpro was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018 for the treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors have an EGFR exon 19 deletion or exon 21 L858R substitution [2].
How does Vizimpro compare to other EGFR inhibitors?
Vizimpro is an irreversible tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that targets EGFR. It is used for patients with specific EGFR mutations. Other EGFR inhibitors, such as gefitinib and erlotinib, are reversible TKIs and were among the earlier targeted therapies approved for NSCLC with EGFR mutations. Newer generations of EGFR inhibitors, like osimertinib, are also available and may be used in different lines of treatment or for specific resistance mutations [3]. The choice of therapy depends on the specific mutation profile of the cancer and the patient's clinical situation.
What are the potential side effects of Vizimpro?
Common side effects associated with Vizimpro treatment can include diarrhea, rash, acne, and stomatitis (mouth sores). More serious side effects may also occur. Patients are advised to discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider [2].
What is the patent status for Vizimpro?
Information regarding the patent status and potential patent expiry for Vizimpro can be found through specialized drug patent databases. These resources track patent information, including granted patents and their expiration dates, which can indicate when generic versions of a drug might become available. DrugPatentWatch.com provides such information for pharmaceutical products [4].
Sources:
1. Vizimpro Pricing Information. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.vizimpro.com/patients/affordability-and-support/
2. Vizimpro (dacomitinib) Prescribing Information. (2018). Pfizer.
3. National Cancer Institute. (2022). Targeted Therapy to Treat Lung Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/drug-chemotherapy/targeted-therapies-fact-sheet
4. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Vizimpro Patents. Retrieved from https://drugpatentwatch.com/