How to get keytruda?

What is KEYTRUDA, and when can I get it?

KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) is a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma, and others. It is a type of immunotherapy that helps the body's immune system fight cancer cells.

Who can get KEYTRUDA?

According to the manufacturer, Merck [1], KEYTRUDA is available by prescription only and should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. To get KEYTRUDA, you typically need to:

1. Be diagnosed with a type of cancer that KEYTRUDA is approved to treat.
2. Discuss treatment options with your doctor, including KEYTRUDA.
3. Meet the eligibility criteria for KEYTRUDA treatment, which may include age, overall health, and previous cancer treatments.

How do I get KEYTRUDA through my healthcare provider?

To get KEYTRUDA through your healthcare provider, follow these steps:

1. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your cancer diagnosis and treatment options.
2. If you and your doctor decide that KEYTRUDA is a suitable treatment option, your doctor will prescribe it to you.
3. A pharmacist will dispense the medication to you.

What are the costs associated with KEYTRUDA?

The cost of KEYTRUDA can be high, and insurance coverage may vary. According to DrugPatentWatch.com [2], the wholesale price of KEYTRUDA can range from $2,400 to over $10,000 per month, depending on the dosage and indication.

Will biosimilars or generic versions of KEYTRUDA be available?

While there are no biosimilars or generic versions of KEYTRUDA approved by the FDA yet, the manufacturer's patent for KEYTRUDA is expected to expire in 2028 [3]. This may lead to the development of biosimilars or generic versions, which could potentially reduce the cost of the medication.

Sources

[1] Merck. (n.d.). KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab) [Package Insert]. Retrieved from https://www.merck.com/product/usa/picirculars/k/keytruda/keytrudapi.pdf

[2] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Pembrolizumab (KEYTRUDA) [Patent and Pricing Information]. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-DX-1111

[3] Lex Machina. (n.d.). Pembrolizumab [Patent Expiration]. Retrieved from https://lexmachina.com/patent-expiration/