What is the retail price of Tirbanibulin without insurance?
Without any insurance coverage or discount programs, the out-of-pocket retail price for Tirbanibulin (brand name Klisyri) is substantial. The cost can vary based on the specific pharmacy and the size of the package. A carton containing five single-dose packets of 1% Klisyri ointment can have a retail price upwards of $1,900. A five-day course was estimated to cost around $1,000 in 2021. However, pharmacy discount cards are essential for anyone paying cash for this medication, as they offer significant reductions from the list price. For example, discount cards like GoodRx can bring the price down to a fraction of the retail cost, with some coupons offering prices as low as $233, though prices fluctuate. The average cost with a GoodRx coupon is still well over $1,000.
How insurance coverage affects the cost of Tirbanibulin
Your final out-of-pocket cost for Tirbanibulin is heavily dependent on your specific insurance plan and its formulary. The manufacturer, Almirall, offers programs to help offset these costs for eligible patients.
Commercial insurance coverage
Most commercial insurance plans have a specific process for covering Klisyri, often involving prior authorization or step therapy. Once approved, commercially insured patients can use the Almirall Advantage savings card to reduce their co-pay. Eligible patients may pay as little as $25 per fill if their insurance covers the product. If their plan does not cover Klisyri, they can still receive a discount through the program, paying around $95 to $150, depending on whether they use an in-network pharmacy.
Medicare and government-funded insurance
Patients with government-funded insurance like Medicare (including Part D) or Medicaid are not eligible for manufacturer co-pay assistance cards. Their costs are determined by the specifics of their individual plan and their progression through the different coverage stages—deductible, initial coverage, "donut hole," and catastrophic coverage. A GoodRx coupon may offer a better price than their Medicare copay, particularly during the "donut hole" phase.
Comparison of Tirbanibulin and alternative treatments
While Tirbanibulin's short 5-day treatment course and tolerable side effects are advantages, its high price is a notable drawback compared to older, more established alternatives for actinic keratosis. Here is a comparison of typical costs and treatment parameters for common topical therapies:
Treatment (Brand Name) | Active Ingredient | Course Duration | Potential Side Effects | Approx. Out-of-Pocket Cost | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Klisyri | Tirbanibulin | 5 days | Local skin reactions (less severe) | High retail (~$1900+), lower with discounts/insurance | Shortest treatment duration |
Efudex | Fluorouracil (5%) | 2-4 weeks or longer | Local skin reactions (more severe) | Very low ($30-$80) | Generic options available, long-standing treatment |
Aldara | Imiquimod (5%) | 4-6 weeks | Local skin reactions | Very low to moderate ($30-$80 for generic) | Generic options available, immune response modifier |
Solaraze | Diclofenac Sodium (3%) | 60-90 days | Mild local reactions | Low to moderate | Long treatment duration, anti-inflammatory properties |
It is important to note that a 2023 economic evaluation found Tirbanibulin to be a cost-saving option compared to diclofenac, imiquimod, and fluorouracil when factors like a shorter treatment course and fewer severe local skin reactions (leading to better adherence) were considered.
How to lower your out-of-pocket cost for Tirbanibulin
There are several ways to significantly reduce the cost of your Klisyri prescription:
- Manufacturer Savings Card: The Almirall Advantage program is available to commercially insured patients and can lower their co-pay to as little as $25. Check eligibility on the manufacturer's website.
- Pharmacy Discount Programs: Free coupons from websites like GoodRx, SingleCare, or WellRx can provide substantial savings, especially for those without insurance or with high-deductible plans.
- Check Different Pharmacies: Prices can vary widely between pharmacies. Use online comparison tools to find the lowest price in your area.
- Discuss Alternatives with Your Doctor: If the cost remains prohibitive, talk to your dermatologist about older, more affordable alternatives like fluorouracil or imiquimod. Consider the trade-offs between cost, treatment duration, and side effects.
- Contact Patient Support: While a centralized patient assistance program may not be listed, contact the manufacturer's patient support line. They may be able to provide additional resources or assistance.
Conclusion
The high initial retail price for Tirbanibulin (Klisyri) can be shocking for patients, particularly those without commercial insurance. However, several resources can dramatically lower the final cost. Commercially insured patients can use manufacturer savings cards to pay as little as $25, while uninsured patients can utilize discount cards from platforms like GoodRx for significant reductions. The best option for you depends on your insurance status, tolerance for potential side effects, and budget. Always discuss all available options and potential costs with your dermatologist and pharmacist to make the most informed decision for treating actinic keratosis.
Economic Evaluation of Tirbanibulin for the Treatment of Actinic Keratosis on the Face and Scalp