See the DrugPatentWatch profile for keytruda

Reducing the Cost of Keytruda: Options and Strategies

Keytruda, a popular immunotherapy medication, is a lifesaving treatment for many patients with various types of cancer. However, its high cost can be a significant burden for individuals and healthcare systems alike. Fortunately, there are several ways to access Keytruda at a reduced cost.

Manufacturer Discounts and Patient Assistance Programs

Merck, the manufacturer of Keytruda, offers various discounts and patient assistance programs to help make the medication more affordable. The company's patient assistance program, called Merck Patient Assistance Program (PAP), provides free or low-cost Keytruda to eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured. Additionally, Merck offers a copay program that can reduce the out-of-pocket cost of Keytruda for eligible patients.

Generic and Biosimilar Options

While there are no generic versions of Keytruda available yet, biosimilar versions of the medication are being developed. Biosimilars are highly similar versions of biologic medications, including immunotherapies like Keytruda. Once approved, biosimilar versions of Keytruda could potentially offer a lower-cost alternative.

Discount Cards and Coupons

Several discount card and coupon programs are available to help reduce the cost of Keytruda. For example, the patient advocacy organization, CancerCare, offers a discount card program that can help patients with out-of-pocket costs for Keytruda. Additionally, various online coupon programs, such as GoodRx, offer discounts on Keytruda.

Negotiating with Your Healthcare Provider

Patients can also negotiate with their healthcare provider to reduce the cost of Keytruda. This may involve discussing alternative treatment options or negotiating a lower price for the medication.

“The cost of cancer treatment is a significant burden for many patients, and we are committed to making our medicines more accessible and affordable,” said Dr. Roger Perlmutter, President of Merck Research Laboratories. (1)

Additional Options

Other options to consider include:

* Patient assistance foundations: Non-profit organizations that provide financial assistance to patients in need.
* Charity programs: Some charities, such as the Cancer Support Community, offer financial assistance to patients with cancer.
* Government programs: Medicaid, Medicare, and other government programs may offer coverage for Keytruda or other cancer treatments.

Conclusion

While Keytruda is a highly effective treatment for many types of cancer, its high cost can be a significant burden for patients and healthcare systems. By exploring manufacturer discounts, generic and biosimilar options, discount cards and coupons, negotiating with your healthcare provider, and considering additional options, patients can potentially access Keytruda at a reduced cost.

References

1. Merck. (2020). Merck Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/about/merck-giving/merck-patient-assistance-program.html>

Sources Cited

1. Merck. (2020). Merck Patient Assistance Program. Retrieved from <https://www.merck.com/about/merck-giving/merck-patient-assistance-program.html>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com. (2020). Keytruda (pembrolizumab) Patent Expiration. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-8148401>
3. CancerCare. (2020). Discount Card Program. Retrieved from <https://www.cancercare.org/patient-information/discount-card-program/>