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The Cost of Keytruda with Insurance: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Keytruda?

Keytruda, also known as pembrolizumab, is a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including melanoma, lung cancer, and head and neck cancer. It is a type of immunotherapy that works by boosting the body's natural defenses to fight cancer cells.

How Much Does Keytruda Cost with Insurance?

The cost of Keytruda with insurance can vary depending on several factors, including the patient's insurance plan, the dosage and frequency of treatment, and the patient's location. According to a report by DrugPatentWatch.com, the average wholesale price (AWP) of Keytruda is around $12,500 per month.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Keytruda with Insurance?

Several factors can affect the cost of Keytruda with insurance, including:

* Insurance plan: The cost of Keytruda with insurance can vary depending on the patient's insurance plan. Some plans may cover the medication at a higher copayment or coinsurance rate than others.
* Dosage and frequency of treatment: The dosage and frequency of treatment can also impact the cost of Keytruda with insurance. Patients who require higher doses or more frequent treatments may pay more out-of-pocket.
* Location: The cost of Keytruda with insurance can vary depending on the patient's location. Patients living in areas with higher costs of living may pay more for the medication.
* Patient's financial situation: Patients who are uninsured or underinsured may pay more for Keytruda than those with insurance.

How Can Patients Afford Keytruda with Insurance?

While the cost of Keytruda with insurance can be high, there are several ways patients can afford the medication:

* Insurance coverage: Patients with insurance can work with their insurance provider to negotiate a lower copayment or coinsurance rate.
* Patient assistance programs: Pharmaceutical companies, such as Merck, which manufactures Keytruda, offer patient assistance programs that can help patients afford the medication.
* Financial assistance programs: Non-profit organizations, such as the Patient Access Network Foundation, offer financial assistance programs that can help patients afford Keytruda.
* Discount programs: Some pharmacies and healthcare providers offer discount programs that can help patients save money on Keytruda.

What are the Benefits of Keytruda?

Despite the high cost of Keytruda with insurance, the medication has several benefits, including:

* Improved survival rates: Keytruda has been shown to improve survival rates for patients with certain types of cancer.
* Fewer side effects: Keytruda is often associated with fewer side effects than other cancer treatments.
* Targeted therapy: Keytruda targets specific cancer cells, reducing the risk of harming healthy cells.

What are the Side Effects of Keytruda?

While Keytruda is generally considered safe, it can cause several side effects, including:

* Fatigue: Patients may experience fatigue, which can be managed with rest and medication.
* Skin rash: Keytruda can cause a skin rash, which can be treated with topical creams and ointments.
* Diarrhea: Patients may experience diarrhea, which can be managed with medication and dietary changes.

Conclusion

Keytruda is a powerful medication that has improved survival rates for patients with certain types of cancer. While the cost of Keytruda with insurance can be high, there are several ways patients can afford the medication. By understanding the factors that affect the cost of Keytruda with insurance and exploring financial assistance programs, patients can access this life-saving medication.

Key Takeaways

* The average wholesale price of Keytruda is around $12,500 per month.
* The cost of Keytruda with insurance can vary depending on the patient's insurance plan, dosage and frequency of treatment, and location.
* Patients can explore financial assistance programs, discount programs, and patient assistance programs to afford Keytruda.
* Keytruda has several benefits, including improved survival rates, fewer side effects, and targeted therapy.

FAQs

1. What is the average wholesale price of Keytruda?

The average wholesale price of Keytruda is around $12,500 per month.

2. How can patients afford Keytruda with insurance?

Patients can afford Keytruda with insurance by exploring financial assistance programs, discount programs, and patient assistance programs.

3. What are the benefits of Keytruda?

The benefits of Keytruda include improved survival rates, fewer side effects, and targeted therapy.

4. What are the side effects of Keytruda?

The side effects of Keytruda include fatigue, skin rash, and diarrhea.

5. How can patients manage the side effects of Keytruda?

Patients can manage the side effects of Keytruda by resting, using topical creams and ointments for skin rash, and taking medication and making dietary changes for diarrhea.

Sources

1. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2022). Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent-expiration/pembrolizumab-keytruda>
2. Merck. (n.d.). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Injection. Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/product/usa/picirculars/k/keytruda/keytrudapi.pdf>
3. Patient Access Network Foundation. (n.d.). Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.ppanet.org/programs/keytruda-pembrolizumab/>