Basaglar, a biosimilar insulin glargine product, has a significantly lower list price compared to its reference product, Lantus [1]. For example, one study found that Basaglar's list price was 34% lower than Lantus [1]. The net price, after rebates, also showed a substantial reduction, with Basaglar being 42% cheaper than Lantus [1].
How much does Basaglar cost?
The cost of Basaglar can vary based on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and whether discounts are applied. However, its list price is considerably less than the originator product. For instance, a vial of Basaglar may be priced around $100-$150, while a pack of Basaglar KwikPens could range from $200-$300, according to some retail price estimates before insurance. These figures are approximate and subject to change.
Why is Basaglar cheaper than Lantus?
Basaglar is cheaper than Lantus because it is a biosimilar. Biosimilars are approved by regulatory agencies as being highly similar to an already-approved biologic drug, with no clinically meaningful differences in safety, purity, and potency. This similarity allows for competition in the market, driving down prices for patients and healthcare systems [2]. The development and approval process for biosimilars is generally less costly than for novel biologic drugs, contributing to their lower price point [2].
When does Basaglar patent expire?
Patent expiries for insulin glargine products, including Lantus and its related biosimilars like Basaglar, have a complex timeline. While the primary patents for Lantus have expired, leading to the market entry of biosimilars, there can be additional patents and exclusivity periods to consider [3]. Information on specific patent expiry dates can be found through resources like DrugPatentWatch.com [3].
Who makes Basaglar?
Basaglar is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company [4]. Eli Lilly is a global pharmaceutical company that develops and markets a range of medicines, including diabetes treatments [4].
How does Basaglar compare to other insulin glargine biosimilars?
Other insulin glargine biosimilars available in the market include Semglee and Rezvoglar. Like Basaglar, these products offer a lower-cost alternative to Lantus. The comparative pricing and market positioning among these biosimilars can shift as they gain market share.
What are the side effects of Basaglar?
The side effects of Basaglar are generally similar to those of the reference product, Lantus. The most common side effect is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar [5]. Other potential side effects can include injection site reactions, lipodystrophy (changes in fat tissue at injection sites), and allergic reactions [5]. Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider.
Can you switch from Lantus to Basaglar?
Yes, patients can switch from Lantus to Basaglar. Regulatory approvals for biosimilars like Basaglar confirm they are interchangeable with their reference products, meaning they can be used in place of Lantus without any expected change in safety or effectiveness [2, 5]. However, any switch in medication should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
What is the difference between Basaglar and Lantus?
The primary difference between Basaglar and Lantus is that Basaglar is a biosimilar of Lantus. Both are long-acting insulin glargine products used to manage blood sugar levels in adults and children with diabetes. Basaglar has been demonstrated to be highly similar to Lantus, with no clinically significant differences identified [2, 5]. The most notable difference for patients and payers is Basaglar's lower price [1].
What does Basaglar KwikPen cost?
The cost of the Basaglar KwikPen, a pre-filled insulin delivery device, is also significantly lower than the equivalent Lantus SoloSTAR pen. Pricing can vary, but the KwikPen provides a more accessible option for individuals managing diabetes.
Where can I find Basaglar pricing information?
Detailed pricing information for Basaglar, including list prices and potential net prices after rebates, can be researched through various sources. Healthcare providers, pharmacies, and specialized databases that track drug pricing and patent information, such as DrugPatentWatch.com, can offer insights into Basaglar's cost [3].
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Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/blog/basaglar-price-reduction- Lantus-competition/
[2] https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-biosimilar-insulin-product-us
[3] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/
[4] https://www.lilly.com/newsroom/press-releases/2015/eli-lilly-and-company-announces-launch-of-basaglar-insulin-glargine-injection-usp-20151217
[5] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/207561s018lbl.pdf