The cost of the Breyna inhaler can vary depending on insurance coverage, pharmacy, and whether a discount program is utilized.
What is Breyna?
Breyna is a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) that contains a combination of budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate [1]. It is a generic version of Symbicort, used for the maintenance treatment of asthma in patients 6 years and older, and for the treatment of airflow obstruction and reduction of exacerbations in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) [1].
How much does Breyna cost?
The retail price for a 30-day supply of Breyna inhaler can range from approximately $100 to over $200. However, the actual cost to a patient is often significantly lower due to insurance plans and available savings programs. For instance, a 30-day supply can cost as little as $10 with a savings card for eligible commercially insured patients [1].
How can I save money on Breyna?
Savings on Breyna can be achieved through several methods:
* Manufacturer Savings Cards: For commercially insured patients, Astellas Pharma (the marketer of Breyna) offers a savings card that can reduce the out-of-pocket cost to as low as $10 for a 30-day supply, with a maximum annual savings of $700 [1].
* Insurance Coverage: The cost will be heavily influenced by your specific health insurance plan. It is advisable to check with your insurance provider about coverage and co-pays for Breyna.
* Pharmacy Choice: Prices can differ between pharmacies. Comparing prices at various pharmacies, including local drugstores and online pharmacies, may yield cost savings.
* Patient Assistance Programs: If you are uninsured or underinsured, you may qualify for patient assistance programs that can help reduce the cost of medication.
What is the difference between Breyna and Symbicort?
Breyna is the first FDA-approved generic version of Symbicort [1]. Both inhalers contain the same active ingredients: budesonide, an inhaled corticosteroid, and formoterol fumarate dihydrate, a long-acting beta-agonist (LABA) [1]. They are indicated for the same uses in treating asthma and COPD. While clinically they are designed to be therapeutically equivalent, minor differences in inactive ingredients or device design could exist.
When does the patent for Symbicort expire?
Symbicort had multiple patents covering its composition, formulation, and method of use. While the primary patents have expired, allowing for generic entry, patent litigation can be complex and involve multiple patents with varying expiration dates. Information regarding specific patent expirations and any ongoing legal challenges can be found through resources that track drug patents and litigation [2]. DrugPatentWatch.com monitors such patent landscapes for pharmaceutical products.
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**Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/breyna/
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/