The cost of oligonucleotide therapy can vary significantly depending on the specific drug, condition treated, and dosing regimen. For a widely discussed example, Nusinersen, an antisense oligonucleotide used for certain neurological conditions, carries a substantial cost.
The Cost of Nusinersen: A Specific Oligonucleotide Therapy Example
Nusinersen is administered via intrathecal injection. The cost per injection is US$125,000. The total annual cost for treatment with Nusinersen varies based on the year of therapy due to the initial loading dose requirements.
Annual Treatment Costs for Nusinersen
The following table breaks down the typical costs associated with Nusinersen treatment annually:
| Period | Doses Required Per Year | Cost Per Injection | Total Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Year | 6 | US$125,000 | US$750,000 |
| Subsequent Years | 3 | US$125,000 | US$375,000 per year |
This pricing structure means the initial year of treatment is more expensive due to a higher number of required doses, followed by a consistent annual cost in subsequent years for maintenance therapy. This information, highlighting the significant financial burden of such treatments, can be further explored in discussions regarding the pricing of therapies for rare disorders, such as those found on The Lancet.
