Amvuttra (vutrisiran) is an innovative RNA interference therapeutic approved to treat transthyretin-mediated amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM). While its mechanism of action—silencing the gene responsible for the disease-causing protein—is a significant advancement, its price tag raises questions for many potential patients. For individuals navigating this diagnosis, understanding the costs and available support is essential to accessing treatment.
The Official Cost of Amvuttra
As of recent reports, the annual list price for Amvuttra CM is approximately $476,000 to $477,404. Amvuttra is administered as a subcutaneous injection once every three months, meaning each individual dose has a list price of around $119,000. It is crucial to remember that this figure represents the wholesale acquisition cost and is not what most patients will actually pay out of pocket, especially with insurance and support programs.
Factors Influencing the Final Patient Cost
Several factors determine how much an individual patient ultimately pays for Amvuttra CM. These include:
- Insurance Coverage: For many with commercial insurance, the out-of-pocket cost can be significantly reduced through copay assistance programs offered by the manufacturer. For Medicare patients, Amvuttra is covered under Part B since it is administered in a clinical setting, which can also result in lower out-of-pocket expenses compared to oral medications covered by Part D. However, coverage rules can be complex and vary by plan.
- Patient Assistance Programs: The manufacturer, Alnylam, offers robust support through its Alnylam Assist program. This program provides various forms of financial aid for eligible patients, helping those who are uninsured or have high commercial insurance costs.
- Treatment Location: The setting where Amvuttra is administered—a clinic, hospital, or infusion center—can also affect the final cost, as facility fees and other associated charges may apply.
- Market Competition: Amvuttra is not the only therapy available for ATTR-CM, and its list price is considerably higher than its rivals. The competitive landscape may lead to price changes over time as patient adoption and market dynamics evolve.
Amvuttra vs. Competitors: A Cost and Mechanism Comparison
Amvuttra is the first "gene silencer" approved for ATTR-CM, differentiating it from earlier treatments. The following table provides a comparison with two other major competitors also approved for ATTR-CM, based on their list prices and mechanism of action at the time of Amvuttra's approval.
| Feature | Amvuttra (vutrisiran) | Vyndaqel/Vyndamax (tafamidis) | Attruby (acoramidis) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Gene Silencer (RNAi) | TTR Stabilizer | TTR Stabilizer |
| Approximate Annual List Price | ~$476,000 | ~$250,000–$268,000 | ~$244,000–$245,000 |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, quarterly | Oral pill, daily | Oral pill, daily |
| FDA Approval for ATTR-CM | March 2025 | 2019 | Not listed in sources |
The Alnylam Assist Patient Support Program
Recognizing the financial hurdles associated with specialized therapies, Alnylam offers the comprehensive Alnylam Assist program to help eligible patients navigate their treatment.
Financial Assistance Options Through Alnylam Assist:
- Copay Program: Available for eligible patients with commercial insurance, this program can reduce out-of-pocket costs to as low as $0 for the medication. Government-sponsored insurance patients, such as those on Medicare or Medicaid, are generally not eligible.
- Patient Assistance Program (PAP): Primarily for eligible uninsured or functionally uninsured patients who meet specific financial criteria. This program can provide Amvuttra at no cost.
- Quick Start Program: For new patients experiencing a delay in coverage approval, this program provides medication to ensure there is no gap in treatment.
- Bridge Program: Supports existing patients who experience a change or delay in insurance coverage.
How to Access Alnylam Assist
Access to Alnylam Assist is initiated by a healthcare provider who submits a 'Start Form' on behalf of the patient. An Alnylam Case Manager then proactively contacts the patient to determine eligibility and assist with enrollment. Patients can also call a dedicated support number or visit the program's website to self-enroll or learn more.
Conclusion While the sticker price for Amvuttra CM is substantial, it is not the final or only cost consideration for most patients. The list price of nearly $477,000 annually is often significantly lowered by private insurance coverage, Medicare Part B, and manufacturer-sponsored financial aid. Through the Alnylam Assist program, eligible patients can find support that substantially reduces their out-of-pocket burden, making this quarterly gene-silencing therapy more accessible. Patients should work closely with their healthcare team and Alnylam Assist to understand all available options and ensure continuity of care. It is this combination of therapeutic innovation and robust patient support that is critical to managing the financial aspects of a rare and complex condition like ATTR-CM.
Note: For the latest information on financial support programs, it is recommended to visit the official Alnylam Assist website at alnylamassist.com.
