Krystexxa, a treatment for chronic refractory gout, has a significant out-of-pocket cost for patients without insurance. The list price for a single infusion can range from approximately \$27,000 to \$33,000 [1]. Over a year, this could amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars, as Krystexxa is typically administered every two weeks [1].
How much does Krystexxa cost per year without insurance?
Without insurance coverage, the annual cost of Krystexxa can reach well over \$600,000, considering the dosage regimen of bi-weekly infusions and the list price per infusion [1]. This high cost presents a substantial financial barrier for individuals seeking this treatment without prescription drug coverage.
Are there Krystexxa patient assistance programs?
Yes, assistance programs are available for Krystexxa. Horizon Therapeutics, the manufacturer of Krystexxa, offers programs that may help eligible commercially insured patients reduce their out-of-pocket costs. For those who are uninsured or underinsured, there may be other patient assistance options, though these often have specific eligibility criteria based on income and other factors [1]. Information on these programs is typically available through the manufacturer's website or by speaking with a healthcare provider.
How does Krystexxa work and what is it used for?
Krystexxa (pegloticase) is an enzyme therapy used to treat chronic refractory gout in adults. Gout is characterized by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints and tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. Krystexxa works by breaking down uric acid in the body. It is an urate-lowering therapy that converts uric acid into allantoin, a substance that is more water-soluble and easily excreted by the kidneys [2]. This reduces the levels of uric acid in the blood, thereby preventing the formation of urate crystals and reducing gout flares [2]. It is typically reserved for patients who have not responded adequately to other gout medications.
When does Krystexxa's patent expire?
The patent landscape for Krystexxa involves multiple patents related to its formulation and method of use. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these patents, and information regarding their expiry dates is crucial for understanding potential market entry for generic or biosimilar versions [3]. While specific patent expiry dates can be complex and subject to litigation or extensions, the expiration of key patents opens the door for competition.
Who are Krystexxa's competitors in gout treatment?
Krystexxa competes with a range of medications for gout management. These include oral urate-lowering therapies like allopurinol and febuxostat, which reduce uric acid production, and probenecid, which increases uric acid excretion. For patients experiencing acute gout flares, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids are commonly used [2]. Krystexxa's unique mechanism as an intravenous enzyme therapy positions it as an option for severe, refractory cases that have not responded to conventional treatments.
Sources:
[1] Krystexxa Cost Without Insurance: https://www.krystexxa.com/affordability/uninsured
[2] Krystexxa (pegloicase) Prescribing Information: https://www.krystexxa.com/prescribing-information
[3] DrugPatentWatch.com: https://drugpatentwatch.com/