The annual list price for CABENUVA in the United States can exceed $48,000.
Understanding CABENUVA's Cost in the US
CABENUVA is a long-acting injectable regimen for the treatment of HIV-1, combining two active ingredients: cabotegravir and rilpivirine. As a specialized medication, its cost is a significant factor for patients and healthcare systems.
US List Price and International Comparisons
The pricing of pharmaceutical drugs in the United States is often higher than in many other countries. For CABENUVA:
- US Annual List Price: The reported annual list price for CABENUVA in the United States can be over $48,000. This figure represents the manufacturer's official price before any discounts, rebates, or insurance adjustments.
- Canadian Annual List Price: In comparison, the annual list price for CABENUVA in Canada has been noted to be around $25,800. This difference highlights the significant variations in drug pricing across different national markets.
Factors Influencing Patient Out-of-Pocket Costs
While the list price provides a benchmark, the amount an individual patient ultimately pays for CABENUVA can vary greatly due to several factors:
- Health Insurance Coverage:
- Most insured patients will pay a co-payment, co-insurance, or deductible amount as determined by their specific health insurance plan.
- Insurance companies often negotiate lower prices with manufacturers or pharmacies, which reduces the actual cost to the insurer, but the patient's out-of-pocket responsibility is based on their plan's structure.
- Patient Assistance Programs:
- The manufacturer, ViiV Healthcare, offers patient assistance and co-pay programs that can help eligible individuals reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. These programs can significantly lower or even eliminate patient costs.
- For more information on support programs, patients can visit the official ViiV Healthcare website: ViiV Healthcare Patient Assistance Programs.
- Government Programs:
- Programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and various state-funded initiatives may cover a substantial portion or all of the cost for eligible beneficiaries, particularly for those with lower incomes or specific health conditions.
- Pharmacy and Provider Negotiations:
- Healthcare providers and pharmacies may also have negotiated rates, but for specialty medications like CABENUVA, the primary cost drivers are typically insurance coverage and manufacturer assistance programs.
Price Summary Table
| Location | Type of Price | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Annual List Price | Over $48,000 |
| Canada | Annual List Price | $25,800 |
It is highly recommended that individuals prescribed CABENUVA discuss the potential costs and available financial assistance options with their healthcare provider, insurance company, or a dedicated financial counselor to understand their specific out-of-pocket expenses.
