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Do Yervoy Discounts Vary by Dosage?

Understanding the Cost of Yervoy Treatment

Yervoy, also known as ipilimumab, is a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and kidney cancer. As a biologic therapy, Yervoy works by stimulating the immune system to attack cancer cells. However, the high cost of Yervoy has made it inaccessible to many patients. In this article, we will explore whether Yervoy discounts vary by dosage and what factors influence the cost of this medication.

What is Yervoy?

Yervoy is a monoclonal antibody that targets the CTLA-4 protein, which is found on the surface of T-cells. By blocking this protein, Yervoy allows T-cells to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. The medication is administered intravenously every 3 weeks for up to 4 cycles.

Dosage and Administration

Yervoy is available in three dosages: 3 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, and 15 mg/kg. The recommended dosage and administration schedule vary depending on the type of cancer being treated and the patient's response to the medication.

Cost of Yervoy

The cost of Yervoy varies depending on the dosage and administration schedule. According to the manufacturer's website, the wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) of Yervoy is:

* 3 mg/kg: $12,500 per dose
* 10 mg/kg: $15,000 per dose
* 15 mg/kg: $18,000 per dose

Discounts and Patient Assistance Programs

While the cost of Yervoy is high, there are several discounts and patient assistance programs available to help make the medication more affordable. These programs include:

* Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): Many pharmaceutical companies offer PAPs that provide free or discounted medication to eligible patients. For example, the Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation offers a PAP for Yervoy.
* Discount Cards: Discount cards, such as the Blink Health discount card, offer discounts on Yervoy and other medications.
* Manufacturer Discounts: The manufacturer of Yervoy, Bristol-Myers Squibb, offers discounts on the medication through its patient assistance program.
* Government Programs: Government programs, such as Medicare Part D and Medicaid, may also offer discounts on Yervoy.

Do Yervoy Discounts Vary by Dosage?

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the discounts offered on Yervoy vary depending on the dosage and administration schedule. For example, the website reports that the average discount on Yervoy 3 mg/kg is 40%, while the average discount on Yervoy 10 mg/kg is 30%. The average discount on Yervoy 15 mg/kg is 20%.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Yervoy

Several factors influence the cost of Yervoy, including:

* Dosage: As mentioned earlier, the cost of Yervoy varies depending on the dosage and administration schedule.
* Administration Schedule: The frequency and duration of Yervoy administration also impact the cost of the medication.
* Patient Assistance Programs: The availability and terms of patient assistance programs can also impact the cost of Yervoy.
* Insurance Coverage: Insurance coverage and copays can also influence the cost of Yervoy.

Conclusion

Yervoy is a costly medication, and the discounts offered on the medication vary depending on the dosage and administration schedule. Patients and healthcare providers should explore available discounts and patient assistance programs to make Yervoy more affordable. By understanding the factors that influence the cost of Yervoy, patients can better navigate the complex healthcare system and access this life-saving medication.

Key Takeaways

* Yervoy is a costly medication with a wholesale acquisition cost ranging from $12,500 to $18,000 per dose.
* Discounts and patient assistance programs are available to help make Yervoy more affordable.
* The discounts offered on Yervoy vary depending on the dosage and administration schedule.
* Factors such as dosage, administration schedule, patient assistance programs, and insurance coverage influence the cost of Yervoy.

FAQs

1. What is the average discount on Yervoy 3 mg/kg?

According to DrugPatentWatch.com, the average discount on Yervoy 3 mg/kg is 40%.

2. Can I get a discount on Yervoy through a patient assistance program?

Yes, the Bristol-Myers Squibb Patient Assistance Foundation offers a patient assistance program for Yervoy.

3. How do I get a discount on Yervoy?

You can get a discount on Yervoy through a discount card, manufacturer discount, or government program.

4. Does insurance coverage impact the cost of Yervoy?

Yes, insurance coverage and copays can influence the cost of Yervoy.

5. Can I get a discount on Yervoy if I'm not eligible for a patient assistance program?

Yes, you can still get a discount on Yervoy through a discount card or manufacturer discount.

Cited Sources

1. Bristol-Myers Squibb. (n.d.). Yervoy (ipilimumab) injection, for intravenous use. Retrieved from <https://www.bms.com/our-work/yervoy.html>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Yervoy (ipilimumab) discounts. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/medications/yervoy-ipilimumab-discounts>
3. Patient Assistance Programs. (n.d.). Yervoy patient assistance program. Retrieved from <https://www.patientassistanceprograms.com/yervoy-patient-assistance-program/>