Mesna cost?

What is Mesna and what does it treat?

Mesna is a medication used to protect the bladder and urinary tract from toxic substances that are made during certain chemotherapy treatments [1]. It is typically prescribed for patients who will be receiving chemotherapy agents such as cyclophosphamide, ifosfamide, or carboplatin.

How does Mesna work?

Mesna works by inhibiting the conversion of ifosfamide and cyclophosphamide to their toxic metabolites. This helps reduce the risk of hemorrhagic cystitis, a condition that can cause bleeding from the bladder.

Cost of Mesna

The cost of Mesna can vary depending on the dosage, form, and location. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Mesna is available in various forms, including injection and oral tablets. On average, the cost of Mesna can range from $50 to $200 per dose, although this may depend on insurance coverage and other factors.

Insurance coverage and cost-sharing

Insurance coverage for Mesna can vary depending on the insurance plan. Some insurances may cover the full cost of Mesna, while others may require copays or coinsurance. According to CMS.gov, Medicare Part B may cover Mesna for patients with cancer.

Alternatives and generics

There are no direct biosimilar alternatives to Mesna available. However, there are generic versions of Mesna that may be less expensive. According to GenericDrugs.com, generic Mesna is available at a lower cost.

When will the patent expire?

The patent for Mesna expired on April 27, 2018, which means that generic versions of the medication are now available [2].

References

[1] - Mesna (Oral) Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com
[2] - US Patent 6,437,349 - Mesna and process for its preparation - Google Patents

Sources:

* [1] Drugs.com
* [2] DrugPatentWatch.com
* [3] GenericDrugs.com
* [4] CMS.gov