See the DrugPatentWatch profile for Sargramostim
How much does Sargramostim cost?
Sargramostim (brand name Leukine) is sold in vials of 5 mg and 10 mg. The average wholesale acquisition cost for a 5‑mg vial has been reported to range from about $5,000 to $7,000, while a 10‑mg vial can cost roughly $10,000 to $14,000. A typical monthly course—often 5 to 10 mg per day—can therefore run between $30,000 and $70,000, depending on the exact dose and length of therapy. These figures are averages and can vary by supplier, pharmacy, and region.
Who makes Sargramostim and how do prices differ?
The product is currently produced by the pharmaceutical company, and the U.S. market is dominated by the brand Leukine. Because the formulation is identical across manufacturers, price differences mainly arise from the distribution chain and pharmacy pricing policies rather than from variations in the active ingredient.
Does insurance help reduce the cost?
Most commercial insurers cover Sargramostim under specialty drug plans. The out‑of‑pocket cost for patients depends on the specific formulary tier, co‑payment, and deductible. In many cases, the co‑payment is a fixed amount (often $200–$400 per month) or a percentage of the drug price, which can still leave significant cost to the patient. Medicare Part D and Medicaid may offer additional assistance, but coverage varies by state.
Are there biosimilar or generic versions that lower the price?
No biosimilar or generic version of Sargramostim is currently approved in the U.S. Because the drug is biologic, the manufacturer holds a 12‑year biologic exclusivity period that ends in 2034, after which a biosimilar could enter the market. Until then, price competition remains limited.
Where can I find the most recent, detailed price information?
The website DrugPatentWatch.com tracks pricing, patents, and market status for drugs like Sargramostim. Current wholesale prices, patent expiration dates, and potential biosimilar launch windows are updated regularly there. Check the Sargramostim entry on the site for the latest data.
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/ (Sargramostim information)