What is Beriplex and Kcentra?
Beriplex P/N is a four-factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (PCC) manufactured by CSL Behring. It is used to rapidly reverse the effects of vitamin K antagonist (VKA) anticoagulation therapy, such as warfarin, in patients experiencing acute major bleeding or requiring urgent surgery. A key point for US patients and healthcare providers is that the same product is marketed under the brand name Kcentra in the United States. While the name changes, the underlying medication and function are consistent. This means that a cost analysis must consider both product names, depending on the patient's location.
PCCs work by providing the necessary coagulation factors (II, VII, IX, and X) to restore the blood's clotting ability. Due to its emergency use, the cost is typically managed within a hospital setting, influencing the final charges seen by the patient.
Key Factors Influencing Beriplex Cost
The final cost of Beriplex or Kcentra is not uniform. Several variables contribute to the ultimate price, including:
- Geographic Location: Drug prices are heavily regulated and negotiated by national and regional health systems. An NHS maximum price for Beriplex in the UK, for instance, is listed as significantly different from cost estimates for PCC doses in the US.
- Insurance Coverage and Patient Status: As with most medications, a patient's out-of-pocket expense for Beriplex or Kcentra will depend on their specific insurance plan. Factors like copayments, deductibles, and whether the hospital is in-network all play a role. Patients without insurance will face the highest costs.
- Hospital and Administration Costs: The total cost includes more than just the drug itself. The price is influenced by the hospital's acquisition cost, as well as associated administrative costs for preparation, nurse time, clinic space, and transport of the medication.
- Total Dosage Required: The dose of Beriplex or Kcentra is based on the patient's weight and International Normalized Ratio (INR). A larger dose means a higher drug cost. The total cost is based on the number of vials needed for a complete treatment.
Approximate Cost Ranges for PCC
It is challenging to provide a single price for Beriplex due to the factors above, but data and studies provide valuable cost estimates:
- United States: Estimates for a dose of PCC (e.g., Kcentra) can range widely, with one study citing approximately US$3,200 while another mentioned a higher figure of $11,650. US Medicaid data from mid-2024 lists the Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) for Kcentra at $2.98000 (unit unspecified), while the Average Acquisition Cost (AAC) is $1.53146. These figures represent institutional costs and do not reflect patient out-of-pocket expenses.
- United Kingdom: An official price list from CSL Behring for the UK indicates a maximum NHS price for Beriplex P/N 1000 IU of £600.00. A different source suggests a cost per vial of £127.50.
Strategies to manage high treatment costs
For patients facing high costs, several strategies can help:
- Patient Assistance Programs: Manufacturers like CSL Behring often have programs to provide financial assistance to eligible patients. These can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
- Insurance Optimization: Understanding your specific insurance plan and maximizing your coverage can save substantial amounts, especially for rare and expensive treatments like PCC. Resources from organizations like the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation can be very helpful.
- Discussion with Medical Team: Patients should talk openly with their healthcare team about costs and any available lower-cost alternatives or options.
A Cost Comparison of Reversal Agents
For context, it is helpful to compare the cost of PCC (Beriplex/Kcentra) with other reversal agents. A study comparing Andexanet alfa with PCC for reversing direct factor Xa inhibitors (dFXaI) found significant cost differences, based on projected costs.
Reversal Agent | Projected Median Cost per Patient | Hemostasis Rate (Excellent/Good) | Thrombotic Events Rate |
---|---|---|---|
PCC (e.g., Beriplex/Kcentra) | $5,670 | 72% (post-4F-PCC) | 4% |
Andexanet alfa | $22,120 | 82% (in trials) | 10% |
This comparison highlights that while expensive, Beriplex/Kcentra may offer a significantly more cost-effective option compared to newer alternatives like Andexanet alfa for certain uses, though efficacy and risk profiles differ. The higher cost of Andexanet is particularly impactful, with one study noting its cost alone could exceed the entire hospital reimbursement in many cases. For more detailed information on specific patient programs, the National Bleeding Disorders Foundation offers a comprehensive list of resources.
Conclusion on Beriplex Pricing
The cost of Beriplex is variable and influenced by multiple factors, including geography, insurance coverage, and the required dosage. While the drug itself is expensive, especially in a hospital setting where it is administered, several strategies can help manage the financial burden. For US patients, Kcentra is the equivalent product. Comparative studies indicate that PCCs like Beriplex or Kcentra can be significantly less expensive than other reversal agents like Andexanet, although treatment efficacy and safety profile should always be the primary consideration. Ultimately, the best way to determine the cost is to consult with a healthcare provider and insurance company to understand specific out-of-pocket expenses.