Aubagio and Cost: Reducing Long-Term Drug Costs and More
Aubagio (teriflunomide) is a prescription drug that’s used to treat types of multiple sclerosis. Aubagio’s cost may depend on factors such as your dosage, whether you have health insurance, and the pharmacy you use.
How much does Aubagio cost?
The price you pay for Aubagio can vary. Your cost may depend on your treatment plan, your insurance coverage (if you have it), and the pharmacy you use.
To find out how much you’ll pay for Aubagio, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.
Is Aubagio available as a generic?
Aubagio is available as the generic drug teriflunomide. A generic contains an exact copy of the active drug in a brand-name medication. A generic is considered just as safe and effective as the original drug but tends to cost less.
To find out how the costs of Aubagio and teriflunomide compare, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.
If you’ve been prescribed Aubagio and you’re interested in trying teriflunomide instead, talk with your doctor. They may recommend that you take one version instead of the other. You’ll also need to check with your insurance provider, as it may only cover one drug or the other.
Why is there such a cost difference between brand-name drugs and generics?
Years of research and testing are needed to ensure that brand-name drugs are safe and effective. This testing can make the drugs expensive. The manufacturer of a brand-name drug can sell the drug exclusively for up to 20 years. After that, other drugmakers can create generic versions. This competition in the market can lead to lower costs for generics. And because generics have the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs, they don’t need to be studied again. This can also lead to lower generic costs.
How can I lower my long-term drug costs?
If you take Aubagio long term, you may be able to lower your costs in the following ways:
Look into getting a 90-day supply of your medication: You may be able to get a 90-day supply of Aubagio if approved by your insurance company. This could reduce your number of trips to the pharmacy and help lower the cost of Aubagio. If you’re interested in a 90-day supply of this drug, talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.
Use a mail-order pharmacy to get your medication: Using a mail-order pharmacy might help lower your cost for Aubagio. Plus, you could get your medication without leaving home. Some Medicare plans may help cover the cost of mail-order drugs. You may also be able to get a 90-day supply of Aubagio through mail order. If you don’t have health insurance, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest online pharmacy options that could work for you.
Can I get help paying for Aubagio?
If you need help covering the cost of Aubagio or understanding your insurance, check out these resources:
On these pages, you can find insurance information, details on drug assistance programs, and links to savings cards and other services.
If you have questions about how to pay for your prescription, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Prior authorization
If you have insurance, you may need to get prior authorization before your insurance provider will cover Aubagio. This means your insurer and your doctor will discuss Aubagio in regard to your treatment. Then, the insurance company will determine whether the drug is covered. If Aubagio requires prior authorization and you don’t receive it before you start treatment, you could pay the full cost of the drug.
Be sure to ask your insurance company whether Aubagio requires prior authorization.
What is Aubagio and what is it used for?
Aubagio is a prescription medication primarily used for the treatment of relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). It helps to reduce the frequency of flare-ups (relapses) and may slow the progression of physical disability associated with MS.
How can patients reduce the long-term costs of Aubagio?
Patients can explore several strategies to lower the long-term costs of taking Aubagio. These include applying for patient assistance programs offered by the drug manufacturer, seeking generic alternatives if available, and consulting with healthcare providers about financial assistance options. Patients are also encouraged to review their health insurance plans to ensure they are receiving the maximum coverage benefits.
Are there any patient assistance programs available for Aubagio?
Yes, there are patient assistance programs available for Aubagio. These programs are often provided by the drug manufacturer to help individuals who are uninsured or underinsured access the medication at a reduced cost or even for free. Patients can inquire directly with the manufacturer or consult their healthcare provider for information on how to qualify and apply for these programs.
What should patients know about insurance coverage for Aubagio?
Patients should check with their insurance providers to understand the coverage details for Aubagio. This includes information on co-pays, deductibles, any prior authorization requirements, and whether the medication is on their insurance plan’s formulary. Understanding these aspects can help patients forecast their out-of-pocket expenses and explore ways to manage costs effectively.
Are there any generic versions of Aubagio available?
At the time of writing, Aubagio does not have a generic version available. However, patients are encouraged to stay informed as generic versions may become available in the future, which could potentially lower costs. Consulting with healthcare providers can also provide current information on any generic options or alternative treatments.
How do drug manufacturers influence the cost of Aubagio?
Drug manufacturers set the initial price for medications like Aubagio. They may offer various discounts and rebates, especially through patient assistance programs. Manufacturers also play a role in funding research and development costs, which can impact pricing. They may adjust prices based on market competition and production costs.
What role do healthcare providers play in managing Aubagio costs?
Healthcare providers can help patients manage the cost of Aubagio by recommending patient assistance programs and choosing appropriate dosing that aligns with patient needs to avoid unnecessary expenses. Providers can also advocate for patients when negotiating with insurance providers or seeking approval for cost-effective therapeutic alternatives.
How can understanding medication costs help in managing overall healthcare expenses?
Understanding medication costs like those for Aubagio can better prepare patients for managing their overall healthcare expenses. It allows for better budgeting and financial planning, helps identify potential savings through assistance programs, and can prompt discussions with healthcare providers about cost-effective treatment plans. Awareness and proactive management can lead to more sustainable healthcare spending.
What are some potential financial resources for patients struggling with Aubagio costs?
Besides manufacturer assistance programs, patients can look into non-profit organizations and foundations that offer support for MS medications. State and federal assistance programs might also provide financial resources depending on eligibility. Patients are encouraged to explore all avenues, including community support services and patient advocacy groups that can offer additional guidance and resources.
Can switching health insurance plans help reduce the cost of Aubagio?
Switching health insurance plans can potentially reduce the cost of Aubagio if the new plan offers better coverage terms for the medication. Patients should compare plans during open enrollment periods, focusing on those that include Aubagio in their formularies with favorable co-pay and deductible structures. Consulting with insurance advisors can also provide personalized benefit comparisons.
Disclaimer: adoctor has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
Thanks for sharing this insightful post about Aubagio and cost management! It’s crucial for patients to understand the various strategies available to potentially reduce long-term drug expenses. Access to affordable medication can significantly impact the quality of life for those managing MS. Keep up the great work in spreading awareness on this important topic!