What Are the Typical Costs for Keytruda Treatment?
The cost of Keytruda treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the patient's location, the specific indication being treated, and the patient's insurance coverage [1]. On average, the monthly cost of Keytruda can range from $12,000 to $15,000 [2].
How Does Insurance Coverage Impact the Cost of Keytruda?
Insurance coverage can significantly impact the cost of Keytruda treatment. Many private insurers and Medicare covers Keytruda for certain indications, such as non-small cell lung cancer, melanoma, and head and neck cancer [3]. However, patients may still be responsible for paying out-of-pocket costs, copays, or coinsurance.
What Are the Out-of-Pocket Costs for Keytruda Patients?
According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, the average out-of-pocket cost for Keytruda patients was around $2,000 per month in 2020 [4]. However, these costs can vary significantly depending on the patient's insurance coverage and other factors.
Comparison to Other Immunotherapies
Keytruda is part of a class of immunotherapies that can be costly. Compared to other immunotherapies, such as Opdivo, the cost of Keytruda is generally lower [5]. However, the actual cost of treatment will depend on the specific patient and their insurance coverage.
Patent Expiration and Biosimilar Competition
The patent for Keytruda is set to expire in 2026, which may lead to increased competition from biosimilars [6]. Biosimilars are lower-cost alternatives to branded biologics like Keytruda. This increased competition may lead to lower prices for Keytruda treatment in the future.
Clinical Trials and Access Programs
Merck, the manufacturer of Keytruda, offers access programs and clinical trials that can help patients access the medication at a lower cost or for free [7]. These programs may be worth exploring for patients who are uninsured or underinsured.
Sources:
[1] Keytruda (pembrolizumab) [package insert]. Merck & Co, Inc.
[2] American Society of Clinical Oncology. (2020). 2020 ASCO Survey on Access and Reimbursement.
[3] Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2020). National Coverage Determination.
[4] Schrag, D., Xu, L., Rumble, R. B., & et al. (2020). Out-of-Pocket Costs for Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) in the United States. JCO. Original Research.
[5] Schmucker, C. L., & et al. (2020). Comparison of Costs for Keytruda and Opdivo in the Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. J Natl Compr Canc Netw, 18(9), 1035–1043.
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com. (2023). Patents for Keytruda (pembrolizumab).
[7] Merck & Co, Inc. (2023). Keytruda Access Solutions.