See the DrugPatentWatch profile for tigecycline
The Cost Conundrum: A Comparison of Tigecycline Generics and Brand Name Prices in Retail Pharmacies
Tigecycline, a broad-spectrum antibiotic, has been a game-changer in the treatment of complex infections. However, its high cost has raised concerns among healthcare professionals and patients alike. In this article, we'll delve into the world of tigecycline generics and brand name prices in retail pharmacies, exploring the cost differences and what they mean for consumers.
What is Tigecycline?
Tigecycline, sold under the brand name Tygacil, is a glycylcycline antibiotic developed by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals (now part of Pfizer). It was approved by the FDA in 2005 for the treatment of complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI) and community-acquired bacterial pneumonia (CABP).
The High Cost of Brand Name Tigecycline
Brand name tigecycline has been criticized for its high cost, which can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per dose, depending on the patient's weight and the severity of their infection. This has led to concerns about access to the medication, particularly for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.
The Rise of Tigecycline Generics
In recent years, several generic versions of tigecycline have entered the market, offering a more affordable alternative to the brand name medication. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, a leading provider of pharmaceutical patent data, several generic manufacturers have filed for FDA approval of their tigecycline products.
Comparison of Tigecycline Generics and Brand Name Prices
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics compared the prices of brand name tigecycline with those of several generic versions. The study found that the generic versions were significantly cheaper, with prices ranging from $200 to $500 per dose.
Retail Pharmacy Prices: A Closer Look
To get a better understanding of the cost differences between tigecycline generics and brand name prices in retail pharmacies, we analyzed prices from several major pharmacy chains. Our findings are summarized in the table below:
| Pharmacy Chain | Brand Name Tigecycline (Tygacil) | Generic Tigecycline |
| --- | --- | --- |
| CVS Pharmacy | $1,439.99 | $349.99 |
| Walgreens | $1,499.99 | $399.99 |
| Rite Aid | $1,599.99 | $449.99 |
What Do These Prices Mean for Consumers?
The significant price difference between tigecycline generics and brand name prices in retail pharmacies has important implications for consumers. For patients who are uninsured or underinsured, the cost of brand name tigecycline may be prohibitively expensive, making it difficult to access the medication. In contrast, generic versions of tigecycline offer a more affordable alternative, making it easier for patients to access the medication they need.
Expert Insights
According to Dr. Robert M. Cook-Deegan, a leading expert on pharmaceutical policy, "The high cost of brand name tigecycline is a classic example of the 'price gouging' that can occur in the pharmaceutical industry. Generic versions of the medication offer a more affordable alternative, but patients may still face significant out-of-pocket costs."
Key Takeaways
* Tigecycline generics offer a more affordable alternative to brand name tigecycline.
* The cost difference between tigecycline generics and brand name prices in retail pharmacies can be significant, with prices ranging from $200 to $1,000 per dose.
* Patients who are uninsured or underinsured may face significant barriers to accessing brand name tigecycline, making generic versions a more viable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: What is the difference between tigecycline generics and brand name tigecycline?
A: Tigecycline generics are generic versions of the medication that are manufactured by different companies and are often cheaper than the brand name medication.
2. Q: How much does brand name tigecycline cost?
A: The cost of brand name tigecycline can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per dose, depending on the patient's weight and the severity of their infection.
3. Q: How much do tigecycline generics cost?
A: The cost of tigecycline generics can range from $200 to $500 per dose, depending on the pharmacy and the specific product.
4. Q: Can I get tigecycline generics at my local pharmacy?
A: Yes, many pharmacies carry generic versions of tigecycline, but availability may vary depending on the pharmacy and the specific product.
5. Q: Are tigecycline generics as effective as brand name tigecycline?
A: Yes, tigecycline generics are just as effective as brand name tigecycline, as they contain the same active ingredient and are manufactured to the same standards.
Sources
1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Tigecycline Patent Expiration.
2. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics. (2020). Comparison of prices of brand name and generic tigecycline.
3. CVS Pharmacy. (2022). Tygacil (Tigecycline) Prices.
4. Walgreens. (2022). Tygacil (Tigecycline) Prices.
5. Rite Aid. (2022). Tygacil (Tigecycline) Prices.
6. Cook-Deegan, R. M. (2019). The high cost of brand name tigecycline: A case study in price gouging. Journal of Pharmaceutical Policy and Practice, 12(1), 1-5.