Fruquintinib, marketed as Fruzaqla, is priced at $14,500 per month for U.S. patients, before any rebates or discounts [1]. This price applies to treatment for metastatic colorectal cancer [1].
How is Fruquintinib's Cost Determined?
The monthly cost of $14,500 for Fruzaqla reflects a list price set by the manufacturer. This price does not account for potential discounts or rebates offered through patient assistance programs or insurance negotiations. Actual out-of-pocket costs for patients can vary significantly based on their insurance coverage, deductible status, and copayments [1].
What Financial Assistance is Available for Fruquintinib?
Takeda Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Fruzaqla, offers a program called Takeda Help at Hand. This program provides financial assistance and support services for eligible patients prescribed Takeda medications, which may include Fruquintinib. Services can range from helping to understand insurance benefits to providing financial aid for out-of-pocket expenses [1].
When Did Fruquintinib Receive FDA Approval?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Fruquintinib (Fruzaqla) for the treatment of adult patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) who have received prior fluoropyrimidine-, oxaliplatin- and irinotecan-based chemotherapy, an anti-VEGF therapy, and an anti-EGFR therapy (if the patient is RAS wild-type) on November 16, 2023 [2].
What is Fruquintinib Used For?
Fruquintinib is used to treat adults with advanced colorectal cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. It is intended for patients who have already undergone several prior treatments, including specific chemotherapy regimens and targeted therapies [2].
What are the Side Effects of Fruquintinib?
Common side effects of Fruquintinib can include hypertension, fatigue, diarrhea, decreased appetite, hand-foot syndrome, nausea, vomiting, stomatitis, and proteinuria [2]. Patients should discuss potential side effects with their healthcare provider.
How Does Fruquintinib Work?
Fruquintinib is a kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking certain enzymes called kinases, specifically targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs). By inhibiting these receptors, Fruquintinib can help to slow down the growth of cancer cells by reducing blood supply to the tumor and by directly affecting cancer cells [2].
What is the Clinical Trial Data Supporting Fruquintinib's Approval?
Fruquintinib's approval was based on data from the FRESCO trial, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The trial demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall survival for patients treated with Fruquintinib compared to placebo in the mCRC population with prior treatments [2].
Who Manufactures Fruquintinib?
Fruquintinib is manufactured by Takeda Pharmaceuticals [1][2].
What is Fruquintinib's Patent Status?
Information regarding the specific patent exclusivity for Fruquintinib is available through specialized drug patent databases. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks patent filings and expiry dates for pharmaceutical products, which would include Fruquintinib [3].
What are the Competitors to Fruquintinib in the Colorectal Cancer Market?
The market for metastatic colorectal cancer treatment includes various therapies. While Fruquintinib targets specific pathways, other treatments include different chemotherapy agents, targeted therapies like EGFR inhibitors (e.g., cetuximab, panitumumab) and VEGF inhibitors (e.g., bevacizumab), and immunotherapies for eligible patients. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as prior therapies, genetic mutations in the tumor, and patient specific characteristics.
---
1. Takeda Pharmaceuticals. Fruzaqla® (fruquintinib) U.S. Price Information. https://www.takeda.com/en-us/medicines/fruzaqla/pricing/
2. FDA. FDA approves Fruzaqla (fruquintinib) for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/resources-information-approved-drugs/fda-approves-fruzaqla-fruquintinib-patients-metastatic-colorectal-cancer
3. DrugPatentWatch.com. https://drugpatentwatch.com/