How Much Does Yervoy Cost?
Yervoy, also known as ipilimumab, is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer, including melanoma. The cost of Yervoy can vary depending on several factors, including the dose, frequency of treatment, and location [1].
Average Cost of Yervoy in the US
According to GoodRx, a website that tracks prescription medication prices, the average cost of Yervoy in the US is around $7,000 to $8,000 per treatment cycle, which typically consists of four doses administered over a 12-week period [1].
Out-of-Pocket Costs for Yervoy
Out-of-pocket costs for Yervoy can be significant, especially for patients without insurance coverage or with high deductibles. Some patients may need to pay up to $20,000 to $30,000 per year for Yervoy treatment, which is a substantial financial burden [2].
Copay Cards and Patient Assistance Programs
Some pharmaceutical companies, including Bristol-Myers Squibb, the manufacturer of Yervoy, offer copay cards or patient assistance programs that can help reduce the out-of-pocket costs for patients [3]. These programs can provide significant savings, but eligibility requirements and available discounts vary.
Biosimilars and Generic Alternatives
There are currently no biosimilars or generic alternatives to Yervoy approved by the FDA. However, researchers are working on developing biosimilars, which could potentially reduce the cost of treatment [4].
Patent Expiration and Price Competition
The patent for Yervoy expires in 2028, which may lead to increased competition and potentially lower prices for the medication. However, the exact impact of patent expiration on prices remains uncertain [5].
Sources:
[1] GoodRx. (2023). Average price of Yervoy (ipilimumab).
[2] National Cancer Institute. (2020). Cost of cancer care.
[3] Bristol-Myers Squibb. (n.d.). Patient Assistance Program.
[4] FDA. (2022). Biosimilar and Interchangeable Products.
[5] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Yervoy (ipilimumab) patents.