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The Cost of Keytruda: A Comparison to Other Treatments

H1: Introduction

Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, is a groundbreaking immunotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and head and neck cancer. Developed by Merck, Keytruda has revolutionized the treatment landscape, offering patients a new hope for survival. However, one of the most pressing concerns surrounding Keytruda is its cost. In this article, we will delve into the cost of Keytruda and compare it to other treatments.

H2: The Cost of Keytruda

The cost of Keytruda varies depending on the dosage, administration route, and patient's weight. According to the Merck website, the wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) of Keytruda is around $12,500 per month for a 200mg dose. However, the actual cost to patients can be significantly higher due to various factors, such as insurance coverage, copays, and coinsurance.

H3: Comparison to Other Treatments

To put the cost of Keytruda into perspective, let's compare it to other treatments for similar indications.

H4: Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a traditional treatment for cancer that involves the use of chemicals to kill cancer cells. The cost of chemotherapy varies depending on the type and duration of treatment, but it is generally less expensive than immunotherapy. For example, the cost of carboplatin, a commonly used chemotherapy drug, can range from $100 to $500 per dose, depending on the dosage and administration route.

H5: Targeted Therapies

Targeted therapies, such as trastuzumab (Herceptin), are designed to target specific molecules on cancer cells. The cost of targeted therapies can range from $5,000 to $10,000 per month, depending on the drug and dosage.

H6: Other Immunotherapies

Other immunotherapies, such as Opdivo (nivolumab) and Yervoy (ipilimumab), are also used to treat various types of cancer. The cost of these medications can range from $10,000 to $15,000 per month, depending on the drug and dosage.

H7: Keytruda vs. Other Immunotherapies

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, Keytruda was found to be more effective than Opdivo in treating certain types of lung cancer. However, the study also found that Keytruda was more expensive than Opdivo, with a median cost of $12,500 per month compared to $10,500 per month for Opdivo.

H8: Factors Affecting Cost

Several factors can affect the cost of Keytruda, including:

* Insurance coverage: Insurance coverage can significantly impact the cost of Keytruda. Patients with private insurance may have higher copays and coinsurance rates than those with government-funded insurance.
* Dose and administration: The dosage and administration route of Keytruda can also impact its cost. For example, patients who require higher doses or more frequent administrations may have higher costs.
* Patient's weight: The cost of Keytruda can also vary depending on the patient's weight. Patients who weigh more may require higher doses, which can increase the cost.

H9: Patient Assistance Programs

To help make Keytruda more affordable, Merck offers patient assistance programs (PAPs) that provide financial assistance to eligible patients. These programs can help reduce the cost of Keytruda by providing copay assistance, coinsurance assistance, and other forms of financial support.

H10: Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of Keytruda is a significant concern for patients and healthcare providers. While it is more expensive than other treatments, Keytruda has been shown to be more effective in certain types of cancer. By understanding the factors that affect the cost of Keytruda and exploring patient assistance programs, patients can better navigate the cost of this life-saving medication.

H11: Key Takeaways

* The cost of Keytruda varies depending on dosage, administration route, and patient's weight.
* Keytruda is more expensive than other treatments, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
* Patient assistance programs can help make Keytruda more affordable.
* Insurance coverage and copays can significantly impact the cost of Keytruda.

H12: FAQs

Q1: How much does Keytruda cost?

A1: The wholesale acquisition cost of Keytruda is around $12,500 per month for a 200mg dose.

Q2: Is Keytruda more expensive than other treatments?

A2: Yes, Keytruda is generally more expensive than other treatments, including chemotherapy and targeted therapies.

Q3: What are patient assistance programs?

A3: Patient assistance programs are programs that provide financial assistance to eligible patients to help make Keytruda more affordable.

Q4: How can I get financial assistance for Keytruda?

A4: Patients can contact Merck's patient assistance program or their healthcare provider to learn more about financial assistance options.

Q5: Is Keytruda covered by insurance?

A5: Keytruda is covered by most insurance plans, but copays and coinsurance rates can vary depending on the plan.

Sources:

1. Merck. (n.d.). Keytruda. Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/picirculars/k/keytruda/keytrudapi.pdf>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8758793>
3. Journal of Clinical Oncology. (2018). Pembrolizumab versus Atezolizumab for Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer. Retrieved from <https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.2017.77.6664>

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