See the DrugPatentWatch profile for vascepa
Is Vascepa Covered for All Ages? A Comprehensive Guide
What is Vascepa?
Vascepa is a prescription medication used to treat high triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood. It is a concentrated ethyl ester of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Vascepa is marketed by Amarin Corporation and has been approved by the FDA since 2012.
Is Vascepa Covered for All Ages?
Vascepa is approved for use in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides), but its coverage for all ages is not straightforward. While Vascepa is not approved for pediatric use, it may be prescribed off-label for children and adolescents with high triglycerides.
Pediatric Use
The FDA has not approved Vascepa for use in children under the age of 18. However, some pediatricians may prescribe Vascepa off-label for children with high triglycerides, particularly those with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) or familial combined hyperlipidemia (FCHL). Off-label use means that the medication is used for a purpose other than what it was approved for by the FDA.
Geriatric Use
Vascepa is approved for use in adults, but its use in older adults (geriatric population) is not specifically addressed in the FDA-approved labeling. However, the medication's manufacturer, Amarin Corporation, has conducted studies on the use of Vascepa in older adults and has found it to be safe and effective in this population.
Coverage and Reimbursement
Vascepa is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. However, coverage and reimbursement may vary depending on the insurance plan and the patient's specific circumstances. Patients should check with their insurance provider to determine the extent of their coverage.
Cost and Affordability
Vascepa is a relatively expensive medication, with a monthly cost ranging from $250 to $500. The high cost of Vascepa may be a barrier to access for some patients. However, patients who are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible for patient assistance programs (PAPs) or other forms of financial assistance.
Patient Assistance Programs
Amarin Corporation offers a patient assistance program (PAP) for eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured. The PAP provides Vascepa at a reduced cost or for free, depending on the patient's income level and other factors.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Vascepa is not approved for use in all ages, but it may be prescribed off-label for children and adolescents with high triglycerides. The medication is approved for use in adults, including older adults, and is covered by most major insurance plans. However, the high cost of Vascepa may be a barrier to access for some patients. Patients who are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible for patient assistance programs or other forms of financial assistance.
Key Takeaways
* Vascepa is approved for use in adults with severe hypertriglyceridemia, but not for pediatric use.
* Vascepa may be prescribed off-label for children and adolescents with high triglycerides.
* The medication is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
* The high cost of Vascepa may be a barrier to access for some patients.
* Patients who are uninsured or underinsured may be eligible for patient assistance programs or other forms of financial assistance.
FAQs
1. Is Vascepa approved for use in children?
No, Vascepa is not approved for use in children under the age of 18.
2. Can Vascepa be prescribed off-label for children?
Yes, some pediatricians may prescribe Vascepa off-label for children with high triglycerides.
3. Is Vascepa covered by insurance?
Yes, Vascepa is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid.
4. How much does Vascepa cost?
The monthly cost of Vascepa ranges from $250 to $500.
5. Are there any patient assistance programs available for Vascepa?
Yes, Amarin Corporation offers a patient assistance program (PAP) for eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured.
Sources
1. Amarin Corporation. (2022). Vascepa Prescribing Information.
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Vascepa Patent Expiration.
3. FDA. (2012). FDA Approves Vascepa to Treat High Triglycerides.
4. National Lipid Association. (2022). Vascepa: A Review of the Evidence.
5. PubMed. (2022). Omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease.
Note: The sources cited are a mix of primary and secondary sources, including the FDA, the manufacturer of Vascepa, and reputable medical organizations.