#United States #Cancer Treatment #Lehi #CivicaScript #capecitabine

CivicaScript Launches a Groundbreaking Affordable Cancer Drug

CivicaScript®, a nonprofit organization committed to reducing the costs of generic medications in the United States, has announced the introduction of its latest product: the generic version of capecitabine. This drug, known as a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor, is prescribed for various types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, gastric, esophageal, and pancreatic cancers. With this launch, CivicaScript aims to make cancer treatment more accessible and affordable for numerous patients across the country.

In a significant move, CivicaScript will provide capecitabine 500 mg film-coated tablets to pharmacies at a cost of $63 for a bottle of 120 tablets. They recommend that pharmacies charge patients no more than $84 per bottle, aligning with their maximum retail price policy known as MaxRPTM. The company will also offer capecitabine in 150 mg and 500 mg strengths, expanding treatment options for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Major Cost Savings Highlighted

What sets CivicaScript apart from many traditional pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) is its transparent pricing strategy. With the new capecitabine offering, patients stand to save approximately $1,500 per month compared to the average costs associated with other generic versions available through PBM-affiliated pharmacies. This initiative can significantly lower out-of-pocket expenses for patients, especially during the deductible phase of their insurance plans where they bear the full medication costs. Notably, for those with co-insurance, the savings could be immensely valuable as they would pay a fixed percentage of medication prices.

Brent J. Eberle, President of CivicaScript, stated, “The momentum we’re creating with our transparent business model is proving to be both successful and sustainable. We’re aligning all stakeholders to prioritize the lowest sustainable cost, which means lower prices for patients and cost savings throughout the system.” CivicaScript’s approach underscores the need for healthcare stakeholders—manufacturers, pharmacies, and patients—to collaborate and streamline drug pricing for the ultimate benefit of those needing access to affordable medicines.

Previous Successes and the Rationale Behind Capecitabine

CivicaScript's success in delivering low-cost medications is illustrated by a recent report from The New England Journal of Medicine Catalyst, highlighting that their first product, abiraterone, enabled consumers to experience a remarkable 64% savings and payers to benefit from a 92% reduction when switching from other versions of the same drug. With this promising precedent, CivicaScript has now identified capecitabine as a priority medication due to its high list price and the critical need for reduced costs among cancer patients.

Addressing High Drug Prices Systemically

Despite the growth of generic medications that typically cost less than brand-name drugs, certain high-cost generics remain prohibitively expensive. Studies emphasize that medication costs can dramatically influence whether patients choose to fill prescriptions or ration their intake, leading to adverse health outcomes. CivicaScript aims to combat these issues by bringing unprecedented transparency to the drug supply chain, ensuring essential medications are not only of high quality but also consistently affordable and readily available.

CivicaScript’s Broader Mission

CivicaScript’s overarching mission is rooted in providing access to low-cost, essential generic medicines to enhance the overall health of communities and promote social welfare. They collaborate with manufacturers to produce affordable drugs while establishing partnerships with payers and pharmacies to ensure that these savings reach patients directly. This innovative approach aims to reshape the landscape of prescription medicine, making affordability a central tenet of healthcare delivery.

In summary, the introduction of capecitabine by CivicaScript signifies a notable advancement in the ongoing battle against high drug prices, particularly concerning cancer medications. By enhancing access to affordable treatment options and committing to transparency in pricing, CivicaScript is poised to make a lasting impact on the healthcare system, benefitting patients who require essential health resources.

For anyone seeking more information about CivicaScript and their commitment to drug affordability, please check out their official website to explore all details regarding their mission and ongoing projects.