See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Zerbaxa
Zerbaxa Price Update: What Patients and Providers Need to Know
As one of the top-selling antibiotics, Zerbaxa (ceftolozane/tazobactam) is a last-resort treatment option for complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs) and other bacterial infections. How much does Zerbaxa cost, and what are the factors influencing its price?
What Affects Zerbaxa's Price?
The cost of Zerbaxa is influenced by various factors, including [1] manufacturing costs, [2] prescription volume, and [3] insurance coverage. As a complex medication made by AstraZeneca, Zerbaxa's price is subject to patent protection and exclusivity agreements. This exclusivity restricts generic competition, which in turn can drive up costs for patients and healthcare systems.
Current Zerbaxa Price
According to [3] data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the average list price for a 10-day Zerbaxa course (750 mg/250 mg every 8 hours) is around $2,444. This price includes the branded medication itself and may not reflect the final cost patients pay, which can be influenced by insurance coverage, copays, and other factors.
Price Comparison and Potential Savings
To put Zerbaxa's price into perspective, how does it compare to other treatments for cUTIs? For example, the average list price for Levaquin (levofloxacin), another first-line treatment for cUTIs, is significantly lower, at around $1,243 for a 10-day course [4]. If you're considering Zerbaxa or alternative treatments for your cUTI, be sure to discuss potential cost savings and patient assistance programs with your healthcare provider.
Patent Exclusivity and Competition
Zerbaxa's patent exclusivity is set to expire in [5] 2028, which may lead to increased generic competition and, consequently, a downward pressure on prices. Keep in mind that generic medications can also face regulatory hurdles, quality-control issues, and patent challenges from manufacturers.
Patient Assistance and Cost Resources
For patients and providers seeking more information on Zerbaxa pricing, available resources and patient assistance programs are listed on AstraZeneca's website. Patients can also reach out to their insurance providers to discuss coverage options, copays, and potential cost-sharing models.
Sources:
[1] AstraZeneca 2022 Annual Report
[2] Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) data
[3] Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), National Average Drug Acquisition Cost (NADAC)
[4] Teva Pharmaceuticals Limited, Levaquin Prescribing Information
[5] AstraZeneca patent search and analysis by DrugPatentWatch.com