See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Crestor
What is the approximate cost of Crestor?
The cost of Crestor (rosuvastatin) can vary significantly depending on factors such as dosage, quantity, and insurance coverage. Without insurance, a 30-day supply of Crestor 10 mg tablets can range from approximately $170 to over $250 [1]. Prices may differ between pharmacies and online retailers [1].
How does insurance affect Crestor pricing?
Insurance plans can substantially lower the out-of-pocket cost for Crestor. Many insurance providers offer coverage for rosuvastatin, with co-pays often falling between $10 and $40 for a 30-day supply [1]. However, specific co-pay amounts depend on the individual insurance plan and its formulary. Some plans may require prior authorization or have preferred generic alternatives [1].
Are there less expensive alternatives to Crestor?
Yes, generic versions of rosuvastatin are available and are generally much more affordable than the brand-name Crestor [1]. For example, a 30-day supply of generic rosuvastatin 10 mg can cost as little as $10 to $30 without insurance [1]. Other statins, such as atorvastatin (Lipitor) or simvastatin (Zocor), are also available and may offer different pricing structures depending on whether they are brand-name or generic [2].
When does the patent for Crestor expire?
The primary patents for Crestor have already expired, allowing for the widespread availability of generic rosuvastatin [3]. The U.S. patent for rosuvastatin expired in mid-2016 [3]. This patent expiry paved the way for lower-cost generic versions to enter the market.
Who manufactures Crestor and its generics?
Brand-name Crestor was originally developed and marketed by AstraZeneca [4]. Following patent expiration, numerous pharmaceutical companies now produce generic rosuvastatin. These manufacturers can be found through pharmaceutical wholesale distributors and online pharmacies [1, 4].
What is Crestor used to treat?
Crestor is a statin medication prescribed to lower high cholesterol levels and triglycerides in the blood [4]. It is used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in individuals with or without existing heart disease by lowering "bad" LDL cholesterol and raising "good" HDL cholesterol [4].