Lenalidomide is a powerful and genuinely effective cancer treatment, but its high cost can be a major hurdle.
This page aims to provide a detailed overview of Lenalidomide prices across different regions, whether you’re checking prices locally or exploring international options. We’ll also present more affordable alternatives to Revlimid.
Lenalidomide Cost
Lenalidomide’s cost is influenced by several factors:
- Research and Development (R&D) Costs: Developing a new drug involves extensive research, clinical trials, and regulatory approval processes, which are expensive and time-consuming.
- Manufacturing Costs: Producing pharmaceutical-grade lenalidomide involves complex processes to ensure purity and efficacy.
- Marketing and Distribution: Pharmaceutical companies invest heavily in marketing to healthcare providers and managing distribution channels to ensure the drug reaches patients.
- Patent Protection: Lenalidomide was under patent protection, allowing the manufacturer to set higher prices without generic competition. Even after patent expiration, prices can remain high due to various market factors.
- Regulatory and Compliance Costs: Meeting the regulatory standards and compliance requirements in different countries adds to the overall cost.
- Insurance and Reimbursement: The price patients pay can be influenced by their insurance coverage and the reimbursement policies in their respective countries.
Lenalidomide Cost in USA
Lenalidomide cost in the USA is high. It’s one of the most expensive cancer drugs with costs varying significantly based on dosage. The price per capsule is around $50. However, monthly supply still costs high, starting at $21,050 with a pack of 28 2.5mg capsules, but can go much higher with more dosage.
These high prices are driven by factors such as the absence of generic alternatives, substantial R&D expenses, and the complex regulatory landscape in the US. Although insurance coverage and patient assistance programs can help reduce out-of-pocket expenses, the overall financial burden remains substantial for many patients.
Lenalidomide Cost in UK
The cost of lenalidomide in the UK is lower compared to the USA due to the National Health Service (NHS) negotiating prices and providing subsidies. The average cost can be around £15,000 to £16,300 per month, depending on the dosage. The NHS covers a substantial portion of the cost, making it more affordable for patients.
Additionally, the UK benefits from centralized healthcare purchasing, which helps in obtaining more favorable pricing. Generic versions are less prevalent, keeping prices relatively high but still lower than in the US.
Lenalidomide Cost in Australia
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) subsidizes the cost of medications in Australia, including lenalidomide. The average cost of Lenalidomide in Australia can be around AUD $13,777, depending on the dosage. However, the actual cost to the PBS can be significantly higher, reflecting the negotiation process between the Australian government and pharmaceutical companies.
The PBS subsidy makes the drug more accessible to patients, although there are still co-payments involved. Australia’s approach to pricing involves rigorous cost-effectiveness evaluations to determine the subsidized price. With discounts and other factors thrown in, the cost per month can be brought down to AUD $65.
Lenalidomide Cost in Other Countries
Lenalidomide cost in other countries varies widely based on healthcare systems and pricing regulations. Here’s a breakdown of up to date data from our research. These are base prices for Revlimid 5 mg capsules, they might go even higher with stronger dosages.
- Lenalidomide Cost in China: In China, lenalidomide is priced at CNY 151,900, which translates to about CNY 470 per month. The high cost is due to the drug being imported and the limited availability of local generics. Additionally, China’s pharmaceutical market is heavily regulated, which impacts the cost.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Philippines: In the Philippines, the monthly price for lenalidomide is PHP 1,233,500, or about PHP 3,810. Import taxes and the absence of local production facilities make the medication expensive. The country’s healthcare system struggles with providing subsidies for such high-cost drugs.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Malaysia: In Malaysia, you’ll pay around MYR 98,160, which breaks down to about MYR 305 per month. Although Malaysia has a growing pharmaceutical sector and there’s some local production, the reliance on imported raw materials and limited generic options contribute to the high cost.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Europe: In EU countries like France and Spain, lenalidomide costs about €19,400, or roughly €60 per month. The European Union’s collective bargaining power helps manage prices, but strong patent protections and high research and development costs keep prices elevated.
- Lenalidomide Cost in New Zealand: In New Zealand, lenalidomide costs NZD 35,625, which is around NZD 110 per month. The high cost is due to the small market size, which limits negotiation power with pharmaceutical companies, and the reliance on imported medications.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Mexico: Lenalidomide costs about MXN 389,797, or approximately MXN 1,200 per month. The Mexican healthcare system provides some subsidies, but importation fees and regulatory costs keep the drug expensive.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Chile: In Chile, lenalidomide costs CLP 19,947,191 per month, or about CLP 61,595 monthly. The pricing is regulated by the Instituto de Salud Pública de Chile (ISP) and the Ministerio de Salud (MINSAL). Chile’s relatively high drug prices reflect its market-oriented economy and the fact that most medications are imported. The Ricarte Soto Law, enacted to improve access to high-cost treatments, may cause the pricing to change drastically.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Lebanon: Lebanon has a very high price for lenalidomide. Around LBP 1,885,600,902, or about LBP 5,822,520 per month. The extreme cost is due to severe economic instability in the region, heavy reliance on imports, and a complex regulatory environment.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Egypt: In Egypt, the monthly cost of lenalidomide is EGP 1,017,440, which is about EGP 3,140. Like most of the others, the high cost is due to limited local production and a significant reliance on imported drugs despite any efforts to subsidize healthcare.
- Lenalidomide Cost in South Africa: Lenalidomide costs ZAR 389,229, or approximately ZAR 1,200 per month. This price is brought up by import taxes, regulatory fees, and the lack of local generics.
- Lenalidomide Cost in UAE: The cost is AED 77,316, or about AED 240 per month. The price remains high because the country depends heavily on imported drugs, but it’s also very much because of the limited amount of generics available. It’s unlikely the price will stay up though, with the country’s already robust healthcare system making progress rapidly.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Colombia: Lenalidomide is priced at COP 85,143,040, translating to roughly COP 262,915 per month. High import costs and regulatory factors contribute to this incredibly high price.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Bulgaria: In Bulgaria, lenalidomide is priced at BGN 37,985 per month, approximately BGN 117 monthly. The National Council on Prices and Reimbursement of Medicinal Products sets these prices. EU membership helps lower costs through the European Medicines Agency. But as a less wealthy EU country, Bulgaria struggles with drug costs. The National Health Insurance Fund decides patient reimbursements. This mix of EU perks, budget limits, and local health rules results in lenalidomide prices that are lower than in wealthier EU countries, but still significant for many Bulgarians.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Venezuela: The cost is VEF 2,373.383, or about VEF 2,375 per month. Despite the country’s economic troubles, government subsidies help keep the price relatively low, though availability can be an issue.
- Lenalidomide Cost in the Dominican Republic: Lenalidomide costs DOP 768,610, which is about DOP 3,850 per month. The price is high due to importation costs and limited competition in the market.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Peru: In Peru, the price is PEN 79,135, or approximately PEN 245 per month. The cost is high because the country relies on imported drugs and has few generics available.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Ecuador: Here, lenalidomide costs USD 21,050, which breaks down to about USD 65 per month. It’s the same as the general US rate, though the price of imports and the lack of local production can still cause it to go up higher than that, especially with dosages over 2.5mg.
- Lenalidomide Cost in Argentina: Argentina sees lenalidomide priced at ARS 19,531,341 per month, translating to approximately ARS 60,310 monthly. The Administración Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnología Médica (ANMAT) oversees drug regulation. Pricing is influenced by the Ministerio de Salud’s efforts to control costs through negotiation with pharmaceutical companies. However, Argentina’s economic challenges, including high inflation and currency devaluation, complicate pricing strategies.
Is There A Generic Drug For Revlimid?
Yes, there is a generic version of Revlimid just called Lenalidomide. The FDA approved this generic version, which is less expensive but works the same way as Revlimid in treating certain cancers, like multiple myeloma and myelodysplastic syndromes.
Why is Lenalidomide So Expensive?
Lenalidomide is so expensive mainly due to its patent protection, allowing high prices without competition. Celgene, the brand that holds the patent, justifies these prices by citing the substantial investments in R&D, including clinical trials and regulatory approvals. The drug’s complex manufacturing and marketing also add to the cost. Regulatory and compliance requirements further increase expenses, while insurance and reimbursement policies affect the final price for patients.
Lenalidomide 2.5 mg Price?
The average price of lenalidomide 2.5 mg across different countries is approximately $13,500 per month.
Lenalidomide 5 mg Price?
The average price of lenalidomide 5 mg across different countries is around $15,000 per month. You can also find Lenalidomide 5 mg capsules in India at a much cheaper rate.
Lenalidomide 10 mg Price?
Lenalidomide 10 mg average price across different countries is roughly $17,500 per month. If that seems too high to you, we have our curated options for India based Lenalidomide 10 mg acquired in partnership with various generic manufacturers.
Lenalidomide 15 mg Price?
The average price of lenalidomide 15 mg across different countries is about $19,000 per month. You can get it through much more manageable prices with an Indian source like us— Lenalidomide 15 mg from India costs much less even if you’re buying it internationally.
Lenalidomide 25 mg Price?
The average price of lenalidomide 25 mg across different countries is approximately $20,000 per month. Lenalidomide 25 mg in India is still expensive, but still significantly lower.
How Can I Afford Revlimid?
To afford Revlimid itself, you can look into patient assistance programs from the manufacturer, check with your insurance for coverage, and use discount cards or coupons to lower costs.
Besides, here are all the alternatives to Revlimid that are more affordable:
- Lenalidomide (Lenalid): If you’re dealing with multiple myeloma, myelodysplastic syndromes, or mantle cell lymphoma, you might consider generic lenalidomide, available in 2.5-25 mg capsules. Watch out for side effects like low blood counts, fatigue, and skin rashes, and make sure to avoid it during pregnancy due to birth defect risks.
- Thalidomide (Thalomid): Thalidomide could help with multiple myeloma and certain leprosy complications, coming in 50-200 mg capsules. Be aware of potential side effects like nerve damage and blood clots, and remember it’s tightly regulated due to serious birth defect risks.
- Bortezomib (Velcade): If injections work for you, bortezomib can treat multiple myeloma and mantle cell lymphoma, using 0.7-3.5 mg vials. Side effects might include nerve pain, digestive issues, and low blood counts, and it’s typically used when other treatments fail.
- Carfilzomib (Kyprolis): For relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, you might try carfilzomib, available in 10-60 mg injection vials. It requires close monitoring due to side effects like fatigue, low blood counts, high blood pressure, and heart issues.
- Ixazomib (Ninlaro): If you prefer oral medication, ixazomib could be an option for multiple myeloma, offered in 2.3-4 mg capsules, often alongside lenalidomide and dexamethasone. Watch for side effects such as digestive issues, nerve pain, and low blood counts, and consider it when other treatments aren’t effective.
- Pomalidomide (Pomalid): This generic version of Pomalyst fights multiple myeloma by directly targeting and killing tumor cells, especially those resistant to lenalidomide, and works well with dexamethasone. It also boosts your immune system and prevents inflammation and new blood vessel growth. Side effects include low blood counts, fatigue, and infections, and it has risks of birth defects.
Is Revlimid Covered By Medicare?
Yes, Medicare usually covers Revlimid, especially under the Medicare Part D or MA-PD, which handles prescription drugs. Coverage and costs vary by plan, so check with your Medicare provider for specific details.
Where is Lenalidomide Cheaper?
Lenalidomide is cheaper in India, by a large margin compared to its western and eastern counterparts.
The pricing is due to the availability of generic versions like Lenalid. These generics are produced after the original patent expired, so other manufacturers can make the same drug without the initial R&D costs.
Additionally, these drugs also meet the same quality, safety, and efficacy standards as the brand-name version, ensuring they are equally effective.
There’s a healthy competition among generic manufacturers which also helps lower prices, making these medications more accessible.
Starting from 5mg, there are many options one can go for in India that start as low as $50 to at most $150, based on the dosage.
That’s the average cost of generic Revlimid per pill in India.
How Successful Is Lenalidomide?
Lenalidomide has shown great success in treating multiple myeloma. It has been shown to improve progression-free survival, meaning patients experience a longer period without disease progression. Additionally, lenalidomide enhances overall survival rates, providing a substantial benefit in both short-term and long-term outcomes. This effectiveness is reflected in clinical studies and real-world use, where it has become a cornerstone of maintenance therapy for multiple myeloma.
Is Lenalidomide Safe?
Lenalidomide is considered safe when used under medical supervision. It has a well-established safety profile supported by numerous clinical trials and real-world data. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals helps manage potential risks and ensures that any adverse effects are promptly addressed. The safety of lenalidomide is reinforced by its widespread use and long history of clinical experience.
What Is The Survival Rate With Lenalidomide?
Lenalidomide maintenance therapy significantly improves survival rates for newly diagnosed multiple myeloma patients. In the Myeloma XI trial, patients on lenalidomide had a 3-year overall survival rate of 78.6% and a 5-year rate of 61.3%. In contrast, the observation group had 3-year and 5-year survival rates of 75.8% and 56.6%, respectively. This shows that lenalidomide therapy enhances both short-term and long-term survival.
What Are The Side Effects Of Lenalidomide?
Lenalidomide can cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. It may also lead to low blood cell counts, increasing the risk of infections or bleeding. Other potential side effects are skin rashes, dizziness, and muscle cramps. Patients are usually monitored closely to manage these effects and adjust treatment as needed.
Does Lenalidomide Affect The Kidneys?
Lenalidomide impacts kidney function, although this is typically manageable. The drug is metabolized by the liver. Its effects on the kidneys might be a consideration, if dealing with patients that have pre-existing kidney conditions. Regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended to ensure that any changes are detected early and managed appropriately.
Does Lenalidomide Cause Hair Loss?
Lenalidomide does not commonly cause hair loss. Unlike some other cancer treatments, such as certain chemotherapy drugs, lenalidomide is not generally associated with significant hair thinning or loss. Patients typically do not experience this side effect, making lenalidomide a preferable option for those concerned about hair loss. It might only happen if one takes any other drugs for cancer treatment besides Lenalidomide.
Does Lenalidomide Affect Memory?
Lenalidomide does not severely affect memory most of the time. However, it has affected memory in some patients. Case reports showed severe cognitive issues. Episodic memory was most impacted. Stopping the drug improved memory. This suggested a link. Other factors may have played a role. The drug’s impact on cognition needed more study. Memory problems occurred in multiple myeloma patients. The link wasn’t proven but was suspected. Research is still ongoing. Further details can be found here.
Is Lenalidomide Chemo?
Lenalidomide is not traditional chemotherapy. It is an immunomodulatory drug (IMiD). This means it helps the immune system fight cancer. It also cuts off blood supply to tumors and kills cancer cells. It works differently from standard chemo drugs.
What Type Of Chemotherapy Is Lenalidomide?
Lenalidomide is not standard chemo but a targeted therapy. It modifies the immune response to fight cancer better. It is different from regular chemo, which kills all fast-growing cells, both healthy and cancerous.
How Long Do You Take Lenalidomide?
The length of time you take lenalidomide varies. It depends on how you respond to the treatment. For some, it is a continuous treatment to keep the cancer in remission. Your doctor will decide the best plan based on your needs.
What Happens When You Stop Lenalidomide?
Stopping lenalidomide can cause the disease to come back or get worse. It is used to keep cancer from returning. Always talk to your doctor before stopping. They will help you manage any risks and discuss other options.
When Does Lenalidomide Expire?
Generic lenalidomide can last as long as 2 years, according to the Welsh Medicines Information Centre. You should still check the expiration date on the package to make sure that the product you get lasts at least that long.
What Foods Should I Avoid With Lenalidomide?
There are no strict food rules with lenalidomide. However, avoid alcohol and foods that upset your stomach, like spicy or fatty foods. Talk to your doctor about any food concerns to ensure the best results from your treatment.
Where can I Buy Lenalidomide online?
Various online stores are also selling the generic version of the medicine. Buying online gives many scopes to get the medicine at a discounted price. One of the best generic Lenalidomide brand is Lenalid available in India. Many patients across the globe purchase medicine online from India and other countries and save on their pockets. One should prefer to buy Lenalidomide online as otherwise, the price is much higher, and the suppliers from India and Mexico are open to customers worldwide.
When a person suffers from MM or multiple myeloma, and myelodysplastic syndromes commonly known as MDS, doctors prescribe Lenalidomide. It is an oral medication that helps patients suffering from cancer. Also a combination of dexamethasone is none other than a steroid drug. When all treatments fail, doctors prescribe this medicine to the ailing patients to make their life a bit easy.
Although the price of Lenalidomide is too costly, the drug has found its place in the World Health Organizations list of essential medicines. It is one of the life-saving drugs for patients suffering from MM or MDS. It doesn’t have an alternative except for the generic version, which is most affordable.
What is Revlimid?
This medicine is being used in the United States of America form the year 2005 and is approved by the FDA. It is a drug that has a chemical structure and composition of thalidomide, but the action of working on the human body is different. Even today, it is not how the drug works to give relief to people suffering from MM, MDS, or other inflammatory health conditions. It is one of the targeted therapy drugs and available in the market commonly in the brand name of Revlimid.
Dosage:
This medicine is available in the form of a capsule, and you can easily take at home. The course of treatment or the cycle of therapy once tablet daily for three weeks. After completion of 3 weeks, one has to take a gap of one week and again follow the pattern. During treatment, one should be in regular touch with the doctor and take and give feedback whenever necessary.
Side effects:
Like all cancer treatment drugs, Lenalidomide has got some side effects. Many people can experience some or one of them during the treatment cycle. Couples should restrict their conjugal life and have protected copulation during treatment. The most common side effects of taking Revlimid are joint pain, headache, sleeping disorder, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, itches, miscarriage if pregnant, low blood counts, blood clotting problem, or aggravation of existing kidney problems.
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Why is Revlimid expensive & generic Lenalidomide cheaper?
Revlimid is expensive than the generic Lenalidomide version because it was Celgene, who did all the research, clinical trials for years hiring the best talents for inventing the drug. They had to take approvals from competent authorities and then only started commercial production and capturing the market. All of these factors need huge investments.
Therefore to get a proper return on investment and also to earn a profit, Revlimid price is high. Generic Lenalidomide is cheaper because other manufacturers do not need to do the research or the clinical trials as the formula or the chemical composition of the drug as well as the results of clinical trials are already available. They only manufacture the drug and sell it, and thus, generic Lenalidomide is cheaper.
Conclusion
With Revlimid from Celgene or its various generic versions, many patients suffering from MDS or MM are making their life better for some years. However, the branded version costs much more. Many patients are using the generic drug without any compromise in the quality and getting the relief of their financial worries.