Trulance Cost vs. Linzess: What's the Difference?
When comparing the costs of Trulance (plecanatide) and Linzess (linaclotide), several factors come into play, including insurance coverage, prescription savings programs, and the specific dosage and quantity prescribed. Both medications are used to treat chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) and irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), but their pricing can vary significantly.
How Much Does Trulance Cost?
The average retail price for Trulance can range from approximately $500 to over $600 for a 30-day supply of 3 mg tablets [1]. However, this price can be substantially reduced through various means. Patients with commercial insurance may pay as little as $30 per month with a Trulance Savings Card [1]. For those without insurance or with high deductibles, out-of-pocket costs can be considerably higher, though patient assistance programs might be available.
What is the Price of Linzess?
Linzess also has a considerable retail cost, typically falling between $550 and $650 for a 30-day supply of its common dosages [2]. Similar to Trulance, the actual cost for patients can be much lower. A Linzess Savings Card for commercially insured patients can bring the monthly cost down to as little as $30 [2]. Uninsured individuals may face the full retail price unless they qualify for other assistance.
What Influences the Price of These Medications?
The list price of both Trulance and Linzess is influenced by research and development costs, manufacturing, and market demand. However, the out-of-pocket expense for patients is largely determined by their insurance plan's formulary, copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance. Pharmaceutical manufacturers also offer savings cards and patient assistance programs to help offset costs for eligible individuals.
Are There Ways to Save Money on Trulance or Linzess?
Yes, savings programs are a primary way to reduce the cost of both Trulance and Linzess. For commercially insured patients, manufacturer-sponsored savings cards can significantly lower monthly copays. These cards are typically available on the respective drug websites. For patients facing financial hardship or those without insurance, checking the manufacturer's website for patient assistance programs may offer further financial relief. Comparing prices at different pharmacies can also yield minor savings.
How Do Insurance Plans Cover Trulance and Linzess?
Insurance coverage for Trulance and Linzess varies widely. Many insurance plans cover both medications for approved indications. However, some plans may require prior authorization, step therapy (requiring trying a different, often less expensive, medication first), or have specific tier placements that affect the copay amount. It is advisable for patients to check with their insurance provider or pharmacist regarding their specific plan's coverage details.
When Does Patent Exclusivity Expire for Trulance and Linzess?
Understanding patent expiry is crucial for predicting when generic alternatives might become available, potentially lowering costs. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these expirations [3].
For Linzess (linaclotide), the primary patents have expiration dates extending into the late 2020s and early 2030s, with some formulations or secondary patents potentially expiring later [3].
For Trulance (plecanatide), patent expirations are also staggered. Key patents are expected to expire in the late 2020s and into the 2030s [3].
The exact date of generic availability can depend on various factors, including patent challenges and regulatory approvals.
What Are the Differences Between Trulance and Linzess?
While both Trulance and Linzess are guanylate cyclase-C agonists used for CIC and IBS-C, they are distinct drugs with slight differences in their chemical structure and clinical profiles [4]. Linzess activates guanylate cyclase-C, increasing intestinal fluid secretion and transit, while Trulance also activates GC-C, leading to increased intestinal fluid secretion and accelerated transit time [4]. Clinical trials have shown both to be effective, with some subtle differences in side effect profiles or efficacy in specific patient subgroups.
What Side Effects Are Patients Concerned About?
The most common side effect reported for both Trulance and Linzess is diarrhea [4]. Other potential side effects can include abdominal pain, bloating, and flatulence. Patients experiencing severe or persistent diarrhea should contact their healthcare provider.
Sources:
1. Trulance Savings Card
2. Linzess Savings Program
3. DrugPatentWatch.com
4. Prescribing Information for Trulance and Linzess, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/205550s007lbl.pdf