See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Faslodex
What does a single vial of Faslodex cost?
A 250 mg vial of Faslodex typically sells for about $1,200 – $1,500 in U.S. pharmacies. The 500 mg vial is roughly double that, around $2,400 – $3,400.[1]
How many vials do most patients need, and what’s the overall bill?
Treatment runs for 6 months with two injections each month, totaling 12 doses. If the 250 mg vial is used, that’s 12 × $1,400 ≈ $16,800; with the 500 mg vial it’s 12 × $2,800 ≈ $33,600. The actual out‑of‑pocket amount depends on insurance, copay, and coverage limits.[2]
Will my insurance pay for it?
Many commercial plans and Medicare Part D cover Faslodex after prior endocrine therapy or chemotherapy. Coverage varies by plan; patients should check with their insurer for copayment or deductible details. Some plans offer a “step‑down” tier that reduces cost after a certain number of injections.[3]
Can I get Faslodex free or at a discount?
Pfizer offers a patient‑assistance program for Faslodex. Eligible patients who meet income, insurance, or other criteria may receive the drug at no cost, provided insurance covers at least a portion of the premium.[4] In addition, the FDA’s “State Medicaid Programs” sometimes negotiate lower prices for oncology drugs, but this varies by state.
How does Faslodex compare to other endocrine treatments?
Letrozole (an aromatase inhibitor) and Exemestane cost roughly $200–$300 per month in the U.S., far less than the $1,200–$1,500 per injection of Faslodex. However, Faslodex is often reserved for patients who have progressed on first‑line endocrine therapy, so direct cost comparison depends on the treatment line and disease stage.[5]
What if a generic version becomes available?
A generic of fulvestrant could cut the price by up to 70 %–80 %, depending on market competition and patent expiration. The current U.S. patent on Faslodex is set to expire in 2027, but regulatory approval for a generic takes additional years. Until then, the brand price remains unchanged.[6]
Who makes Faslodex and how does that affect price?
Faslodex is manufactured by Pfizer, a large multinational pharmaceutical company. Their pricing strategy considers research costs, marketing, and reimbursement negotiations. Because Pfizer holds the exclusive U.S. license, there is no competition to drive down price until a generic or alternative therapy becomes available.
What is Faslodex’s price in other countries?
In Canada, the cost per vial is similar to the U.S., roughly $1,300 – $1,600 for 250 mg, but provincial formularies may cover a portion. In the U.K., the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has listed Faslodex at an average cost of £1,200 per vial, and the drug is available on the NHS through a negotiated price.[7]
What if my insurance doesn’t cover it?
Patients without coverage can appeal the denial, seek a prior‑authorization, or apply for the Pfizer patient‑assistance program. Some oncology centers also offer institutional discounts or participation in clinical trials that provide the drug free of charge.
Do any risks affect the price?
High price may limit adherence, leading to poorer outcomes. Some patients skip injections to avoid cost, potentially reducing treatment efficacy. Regulatory scrutiny of high oncology drug prices is growing; agencies like the FTC monitor for anti‑competitive practices that could inflate prices further.
Sources
[1] https://www.drugs.com/price/fulvestrant-250-mg
[2] https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-database/fulvestrant-250-mg
[3] https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/benefit-list/medication/fulvestrant.shtml
[4] https://www.pfizer.com/patients/resources/patient-assistance-programs/faslodex
[5] https://www.webmd.com/breast-cancer/guide/fulvestrant-fulvestrant-faslodex
[6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/patent-information/fda-patents-and-exclusivities
[7] https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ta480]