A single NUCALA shot, specifically the 100 mg subcutaneous powder for injection, typically costs around $3,656. This price can vary slightly depending on the pharmacy you choose.
Understanding NUCALA Pricing
NUCALA (mepolizumab) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat severe eosinophilic asthma and other eosinophil-driven diseases. The cost of a NUCALA shot refers to the price of one pre-filled syringe or autoinjector, or one vial of powder for injection.
Here's a breakdown of the approximate cost:
| Product | Dosage Form | Supply | Approximate Cash Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nucala | 100 mg subcutaneous powder for injection | 1 powder for injection | $3,656 |
It's important to note that this is a cash price and does not account for insurance coverage, discounts, or patient assistance programs which can significantly lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
Factors Influencing NUCALA's Price
The final cost you pay for a NUCALA shot can be influenced by several key factors:
- Pharmacy Location and Type: Prices can differ between various pharmacies, including retail pharmacies, hospital pharmacies, and mail-order services.
- Insurance Coverage: Your health insurance plan, including its formulary, deductible, copayments, and coinsurance, plays a major role in determining your out-of-pocket cost. Some plans may cover a significant portion, while others might require you to pay a higher amount until your deductible is met.
- Patient Assistance Programs: The manufacturer of NUCALA, GSK, as well as various non-profit organizations, often offer patient assistance programs designed to help eligible individuals afford their medication.
- Copay Cards and Coupons: These programs, often provided by the manufacturer, can help reduce the copay for commercially insured patients.
Strategies to Manage NUCALA Costs
Given the high list price of NUCALA, exploring ways to reduce your financial burden is crucial. Here are practical steps you can take:
- Verify Insurance Coverage: Contact your health insurance provider to understand your specific benefits for NUCALA. Ask about formulary status, prior authorization requirements, and your expected copay or coinsurance.
- Explore Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs: Visit the official NUCALA website or search for GSK's patient assistance programs. These programs can offer significant financial support to eligible patients, sometimes even providing the medication for free.
- Look for Copay Savings Cards: If you have commercial insurance, inquire about NUCALA copay cards, which can substantially lower your monthly out-of-pocket costs.
- Compare Pharmacy Prices: While the variation might not be drastic for specialty medications, it's always worth comparing prices between a few local pharmacies or considering larger chain pharmacies that might offer competitive pricing.
- Discuss with Your Healthcare Provider: Your doctor's office staff or a patient navigator may have resources or direct contacts for financial assistance programs related to NUCALA.
For more detailed pricing information and potential savings options, you can often find resources on reputable pharmaceutical price guides.
