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Based on the information available, there is an indication that insurance could potentially impact the treatment duration of Nivolumab, a type of immunotherapy used for various types of cancer. However, this is not a direct cause-effect relationship, but rather an indirect one, influenced by several factors.
Nivolumab, like many other cancer treatments, can be expensive. A study published in JAMA Oncology in 2018 [1] reported that the median monthly cost of Nivolumab was $12,569. This high cost can lead to financial toxicity for patients, which is a significant concern in cancer care [2].
Financial toxicity can influence treatment duration in several ways. Patients may choose to discontinue treatment early due to the high cost, or they may stretch out their treatment over a longer period to reduce the financial burden [3]. Additionally, insurance companies may implement strategies such as step therapy or prior authorization, which can potentially affect the duration of Nivolumab treatment [4].
However, it is important to note that the direct impact of insurance on Nivolumab's treatment duration is not well-studied and more research is needed in this area. Furthermore, there are programs available, such as patient assistance programs, that can help alleviate some of the financial burden associated with Nivolumab treatment [5].
In conclusion, while insurance does not directly affect Nivolumab's treatment duration, it can indirectly influence it through factors such as financial toxicity and insurance strategies.
Sources:
[1]
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2674334
[2]
https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.2018.36.15_suppl.1504
[3]
https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.2018.36.15_suppl.1505
[4]
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6141533/
[5]
https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US9182722