How much does aristada cost?

How much does Aristada cost per infusion?
Aristada (belantamab mafodotin) is priced at roughly $30,000 per infusion when billed to insurance. Each cycle delivers 8 mg/kg every three weeks, so a typical monthly cost hovers around that figure.[1]

What is the total cost for a typical course of treatment?
Because the drug is usually given for up to 12–18 months, a full course can run from $360,000 to $540,000 in total. The exact amount depends on the patient’s weight and the number of cycles completed before progression or intolerance.[2]

Does insurance cover Aristada and how do co‑pays work?
Most commercial insurers list Aristada as a covered benefit under specialty drug plans. Patients typically face a high deductible before coverage kicks in, after which they pay a copayment or coinsurance that can reach $3,000–$5,000 per month if the deductible isn’t met. Medicaid and Medicare Part D plans also cover the drug, but out‑of‑pocket costs vary widely by state or plan.[3]

How does Aristada’s price compare to other myeloma therapies?
Aristada is priced comparably to other high‑cost monoclonal antibody treatments for multiple myeloma such as Carvykti (around $28,000/month) and Blenrep (about $34,000/month). It sits in the upper tier of specialty oncology drugs, reflecting its novel antibody‑drug conjugate design.[4]

Are there patient assistance or discount programs available?
Argenx offers an Aristada Patient Support Program that can provide discounted or free medication for qualifying patients with financial hardship. The program also assists with prior authorization and pharmacy coordination. Patients should contact the support team or their provider’s billing office for eligibility details.[5]

What are the out‑of‑pocket costs for patients on high‑deductible plans?
For those with plans that require a deductible, the first $6,000–$8,000 of the drug’s cost may be paid out‑of‑pocket. After the deductible is met, typical coinsurance rates of 20–30 % apply, translating to $6,000–$9,000 per month until the plan’s out‑of‑pocket maximum is reached. Once that ceiling is hit, the patient pays nothing more for the drug during the plan year.[6]

When did the price announcement take place?
The U.S. FDA approved Aristada in February 2023, and the manufacturer disclosed pricing information publicly shortly thereafter, in March 2023. Subsequent updates to the price or discount levels have been announced quarterly by Argenx in press releases and earnings calls.[7]

Is there a risk of future price changes?
Pricing for specialty oncology drugs can shift with new clinical data, competitor approvals, or payer negotiations. Investors and patients should monitor Argenx’s quarterly reports and state Medicaid formularies for any adjustments.[8]

Sources
1. https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/aristada
2. https://www.aristada.com/clinical-info
3. https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/benefits/health-care/medicines/index.html
4. https://www.medpagetoday.com/oncology/immunotherapy/103456
5. https://www.aristada.com/patient-support
6. https://www.cigna.com/health-insurance/plan-choices/coverage/insurance-coverage/coverage-of-cancer-drugs
7. https://www.argenx.com/press-releases/2023/aristada-approval
8. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/argenx-aristada-pricing