The cost of Stelara 90 mg varies depending on factors such as insurance coverage, pharmacy, and location. For individuals with commercial insurance, out-of-pocket costs can range significantly. Pharmaceutical assistance programs may be available to help reduce costs for eligible patients.
How much does Stelara typically cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the retail price of Stelara 90 mg can be several thousand dollars per dose. For example, a 90 mg prefilled syringe might cost around $10,000 or more. This highlights the substantial financial burden for those without prescription drug coverage.
Are there ways to lower the cost of Stelara?
Patients may explore several avenues to reduce the expense of Stelara. These include checking eligibility for manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs, which can offer significant financial aid. Additionally, comparing prices at different pharmacies or considering mail-order options might yield savings. For those with insurance, understanding their specific plan benefits and deductible is crucial.
When does Stelara's patent expire?
Stelara (ustekinumab) has faced various patent challenges. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the primary patents for Stelara have faced litigation and are approaching expiration. Different patents have varying expiry dates, with some core patents having expired or set to expire in the near future, opening the door for potential generic or biosimilar competition [1].
What is the difference between Stelara and its biosimilars?
Biosimilars are highly similar to the reference biologic drug (Stelara) and have no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety, purity, and potency. While they are not identical, they are expected to offer a lower-cost alternative once approved and available. The development and approval process for biosimilars is rigorous, ensuring they meet the same high standards of quality as the original biologic [2].
Who makes Stelara and its potential biosimilars?
Stelara is manufactured by Janssen, a pharmaceutical company of Johnson & Johnson [3]. Several other biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies are developing biosimilar versions of ustekinumab, aiming to enter the market upon patent expiry and regulatory approval.
What are the main uses for Stelara?
Stelara is a prescription medication used to treat adults and children 12 years and older with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis who may be candidates for phototherapy or other systemic therapy [4]. It is also used to treat adults with active psoriatic arthritis, moderate to severe Crohn's disease, and moderate to severe ulcerative colitis [4].
What clinical trials have been conducted for Stelara?
Extensive clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate Stelara's efficacy and safety across its various indications. These trials have involved thousands of patients and have demonstrated its effectiveness in achieving and maintaining clinical remission in patients with plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis [5].
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Sources:
[1] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[2] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/biosimilar-products-explained
[3] https://www.janssen.com/
[4] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/emergency-and-crisis-response/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19
[5] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/postmarket-drug-safety-information-for-patients-and-providers/stelara-ustekinumab-information