Invega Sustenna (paliperidone palmitate) – typical U.S. price range
| Item | Typical Cost (USD) | Notes |
|------|--------------------|-------|
| Monthly 234 mg vial (3 mL) | $1,200 – $1,800 | Used for the 1‑month dosing schedule. |
| Monthly 156 mg vial (2 mL) | $800 – $1,400 | Used for patients who need a lower dose. |
| Three‑month 3‑month dosing (234 mg/3 mL) | $3,000 – $4,500 | One vial for 3 months; the price is roughly 3× the monthly rate. |
| Three‑month 3‑month dosing (156 mg/2 mL) | $2,400 – $3,600 | Lower‑dose 3‑month vial. |
Why the wide range?
• Manufacturer & pharmacy discounts can bring the price down.
• Insurance formulary placement (preferred vs. non‑preferred) influences copays.
• Geographic variation – prices can differ between states and pharmacy chains.
• Patient assistance programs or manufacturer coupons can reduce the out‑of‑pocket cost substantially.
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How the price is set
- Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) – the price pharmacies pay the manufacturer before rebates and discounts.
- Average Wholesale Price (AWP) – often used as a reference point for insurance reimbursement.
- Rebates & formulary tiers – insurers negotiate rebates; the drug may be on a higher tier (e.g., Tier 2 or 3), requiring a larger copay.
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Tips to get the best price
1. Ask your pharmacy for the actual price: pharmacists can show the list price, any available discounts, and the amount your insurer will cover.
2. Check manufacturer coupons or a patient assistance program: Eli Lilly offers a “Patient Assistance” program for those who meet income criteria.
3. Compare pharmacies: Use online price‑comparison tools or apps that show the cost for the specific vial size you need.
4. Ask your prescriber: Some clinicians know of lower‑cost alternatives (e.g., other long‑acting antipsychotics) that might fit your insurance tier.
5. Review your insurance formulary: If the drug is not a preferred brand, a generic (once approved) or a different branded drug could be cheaper.
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Bottom line
While the list price for a single vial of Invega Sustenna can hover around $1,200–$1,800 per month (or $3,000–$4,500 for a 3‑month vial), the actual amount you pay can be far lower once insurance, rebates, and patient‑assistance programs are applied. If you’re looking for precise numbers for your situation, the best next step is to call your pharmacy, talk with your insurer, and ask your prescriber about any available discount programs.