Typical Copays for Vascepa
Vascepa (icosapent ethyl), used to lower triglycerides, has copays that vary widely by insurance plan, pharmacy, and patient assistance. With commercial insurance, copays often range from $10 to $50 per month for a 30-day supply after meeting deductibles. Medicare Part D patients typically pay $40-$100 monthly, depending on the plan's formulary tier (usually Tier 3 or 4).[1][2]
Factors Affecting Your Copay
Copays depend on:
- Insurance type: Commercial plans (e.g., Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare) average lower ($20-$40); Medicare higher due to tiers.
- Deductible status: Pre-deductible, you pay full price (~$400-$500/month without coverage).
- Pharmacy choice: Chains like CVS or Walgreens may offer $25-$35 with GoodRx coupons if insurance copay is higher.
- 90-day supply: Often halves the monthly copay (e.g., $20-$40 for three months).[3]
With Medicare or Medicaid
Under Medicare Part D, 2024 averages are $47 for Tier 3 drugs like Vascepa, but can hit $90+ in the coverage gap. Medicaid copays are usually $0-$4. Check your plan's formulary—Vascepa is preferred in some (lower copay) but non-preferred in others (higher).[2][4]
Ways to Lower Copays
- Manufacturer savings card: Eligible commercially insured patients pay $9/month (up to 12 fills/year, max $7,020 savings).[5]
- Discount cards: GoodRx or SingleCare bring cash price to $25-$35/month without insurance.
- Patient assistance: Amarin's program offers free meds for uninsured/low-income (income <400% FPL).[6]
- Authorized generics: Cheaper icosapent ethyl versions from Hikma (post-2020 FDA approval) can cut copays 20-50% where covered.[1]
Price Without Insurance
Uninsured retail price is $450-$550 for 120 capsules (30 days). Bulk or mail-order drops to $300-$400.[3]
Sources:
[1]: GoodRx - Vascepa Prices
[2]: Medicare.gov - Part D Formulary Lookup
[3]: Drugs.com - Vascepa Price Guide
[4]: CMS.gov - Medicare Drug Spending
[5]: Vascepa Savings Card
[6]: Amarin Cares Patient Assistance