The High Cost of Brand-Name Aubagio
For many years, Aubagio was only available as a brand-name medication, with a price reflecting the high costs of pharmaceutical research and development. Without insurance coverage, a 30-day supply of brand-name Aubagio was reported to cost between $9,155 and $9,723 as of early 2023/late 2024, depending on the source and pharmacy. These high list prices highlight the financial burden that individuals with chronic conditions like multiple sclerosis can face. While the price at a specialty pharmacy may sometimes be lower, the expense remains a significant barrier for many without sufficient insurance or financial support.
The Game-Changing Generic: Teriflunomide
Fortunately for many, the cost landscape for teriflunomide changed significantly in March 2023 with the introduction of several generic versions. A generic medication is bioequivalent to its brand-name counterpart, meaning it contains the same active ingredient and works the same way but is typically much cheaper due to market competition. Generic versions of Aubagio, sold under the name teriflunomide, are now widely available through various manufacturers.
This introduction of generics created a much more affordable option for many patients. Prescription discount cards and coupons, available from services like GoodRx and SingleCare, can dramatically reduce the cash price for the generic version. For example, a 30-day supply of generic teriflunomide could potentially cost as little as $33-$55 with a savings card, though prices vary by pharmacy. Online specialty pharmacies, like Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs, have also entered the market, offering even lower prices for the generic.
Aubagio vs. Teriflunomide: A Cost Comparison Table
The following table provides a general overview of the cost differences between brand-name Aubagio and its generic equivalent, teriflunomide, based on different payment scenarios. It is essential to remember that these are estimates, and your final cost will depend on your specific circumstances.
| Payment Scenario | Brand-Name Aubagio (Estimate) | Generic Teriflunomide (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Without Insurance | > $9,000 per month | $33 - $55+ with discount card |
| With Commercial Insurance (before deductible met) | Varies, potentially close to full retail price | Varies, depends on plan; potentially much lower than brand |
| With Commercial Insurance (after deductible met) | Copay varies by plan | Copay varies by plan; potentially $0 with manufacturer card |
| Patient Assistance Programs | Potentially $0 for eligible patients | Potentially $0 for eligible patients |
Factors That Influence Your Monthly Aubagio Cost
Beyond the choice between brand-name and generic, several other factors can affect your final monthly expenditure for Aubagio or teriflunomide. These variables highlight the importance of careful planning and research to manage long-term medication costs.
Insurance Coverage and Deductibles
Your specific health insurance plan is one of the most significant factors determining your out-of-pocket costs. Until you meet your annual deductible, you may be responsible for the full negotiated cost of the drug. After that, your plan may cover most of the cost, and you will pay a copayment or coinsurance amount, which can vary significantly depending on your plan's formulary.
Pharmacy Choice
Where you fill your prescription can also impact the price. Different pharmacies have different pricing agreements with insurance companies and different relationships with discount card programs. Specialty pharmacies often handle multiple sclerosis medications and can sometimes offer better pricing or help navigate complex patient assistance programs.
Dosage and Supply
While the per-tablet cost might not differ significantly between the 7mg and 14mg strengths of Aubagio, your prescribed dosage and supply can affect your overall expenditure. Some insurance plans may approve a 90-day supply, which can reduce costs and trips to the pharmacy. Using a mail-order pharmacy for a 90-day supply may offer additional savings.
Navigating Financial Assistance to Afford Aubagio
For many patients, financial assistance is key to accessing teriflunomide without facing a crippling financial burden. Numerous programs are available to help, covering different insurance statuses and income levels.
Manufacturer Copay Cards and Programs
Pharmaceutical manufacturers sometimes offer copay assistance programs for commercially insured patients. For example, Teva has offered a copay card for its generic teriflunomide, allowing eligible patients to pay as little as $0 out-of-pocket. Sanofi, the brand-name manufacturer, previously offered its own program, but the availability of these programs can change, so it's important to check current eligibility.
Non-Profit Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)
Several non-profit organizations provide patient assistance programs for those who are uninsured, underinsured, or have federal insurance like Medicare. Examples include:
- Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation: Offers assistance for FDA-approved indications.
- HealthWell Foundation: Provides financial assistance for copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
- Patient Advocate Foundation Co-Pay Relief Program: Assists eligible patients with out-of-pocket costs.
Prescription Discount Cards and Coupons
Discount cards from services like GoodRx and SingleCare can provide significant savings on the generic version of Aubagio. These coupons can be used regardless of insurance status, but typically cannot be combined with existing insurance copay benefits. They are an excellent option for finding the best cash price at local pharmacies.
Online Specialty Pharmacies
Online specialty pharmacies can provide significant savings, particularly for generic versions of expensive medications. Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs is a prominent example, which may offer teriflunomide at a very low monthly cost for those who pay out-of-pocket. It is important to compare these options with traditional and mail-order pharmacies.
Conclusion
While brand-name Aubagio presents a significant monthly cost without insurance, the advent of generic teriflunomide has opened up numerous affordable avenues for patients. Understanding how to leverage insurance benefits, generic substitution, manufacturer copay cards, and patient assistance programs is critical for minimizing the financial impact of this necessary treatment. By actively researching and comparing all available options, individuals can ensure they receive their medication without undue financial hardship.
