What is Maraviroc and How Does It Work?
Maraviroc, sold under the brand name Selzentry, is an antiretroviral medication used to treat a specific type of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection [1.5.1]. It belongs to a class of drugs called entry inhibitors, specifically a CCR5 antagonist [1.5.6]. Maraviroc functions by blocking the CCR5 co-receptor on the surface of human cells like T-cells [1.5.6]. This action prevents CCR5-tropic HIV from entering and infecting the cells, thereby limiting the virus's ability to replicate and helping to preserve the immune system [1.5.1, 1.5.5]. Before starting treatment, patients must undergo a tropism test to confirm their HIV strain uses the CCR5 receptor, ensuring the drug will be effective [1.5.1, 1.5.6]. Maraviroc is always used in combination with other antiretroviral agents and is not a cure for HIV [1.2.1, 1.5.6].
Important Safety Information and Side Effects
Maraviroc carries a boxed warning for hepatotoxicity (liver damage), which can be severe [1.5.4]. Patients should be monitored for signs of liver problems, such as jaundice, dark urine, vomiting, or abdominal pain [1.5.3, 1.5.9]. Other serious side effects can include severe skin reactions (like Stevens-Johnson syndrome), heart problems, and an increased risk of infections [1.5.2, 1.5.3]. Common, less severe side effects may include dizziness, rash, cough, and stomach issues [1.5.1]. It is critical to discuss your full medical history and all other medications, including over-the-counter supplements like St. John's wort, with your healthcare provider before starting maraviroc due to potential drug interactions [1.5.2, 1.5.9].
Breakdown of Maraviroc Costs
The price of maraviroc can differ dramatically based on several key factors:
- Brand vs. Generic: The most significant factor is whether the prescription is for brand-name Selzentry or its generic equivalent, maraviroc. Generic medications are typically much less expensive [1.3.8]. For instance, the retail price for a 60-tablet supply of brand-name Selzentry (150 mg) can be around $1,697.85 [1.2.3]. In contrast, a 60-tablet supply of generic maraviroc (150 mg or 300 mg) can be found for as low as $396.41 with a discount coupon [1.2.5].
- Dosage: Maraviroc is available in 150 mg and 300 mg tablets, among other forms [1.2.4, 1.5.4]. The prescribed dosage, which can range from 150 mg to 600 mg twice daily depending on other medications being taken, will influence the quantity needed and the overall cost [1.5.4].
- Pharmacy and Location: Prices vary between pharmacies. For example, some pharmacies might offer a coupon price as low as $299.12, while others are higher [1.2.2]. Using online tools to compare prices at local and mail-order pharmacies can lead to significant savings [1.3.2].
- Insurance Coverage: The final out-of-pocket cost for a patient is heavily dependent on their health insurance plan. Coverage details, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, will determine the portion the patient is responsible for. Some plans may require prior authorization or prefer the generic version.
Cost Comparison: Brand (Selzentry) vs. Generic (Maraviroc)
To illustrate the price disparity, here is a comparison table based on cash prices for a one-month supply (60 tablets). These prices are estimates and can vary.
| Medication | Dosage | Estimated Retail Price (without discounts) | Estimated Discount Price (with coupon) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selzentry (Brand) | 150 mg | $1,697.85 [1.2.3] | ~$1,242 [1.3.7] |
| Maraviroc (Generic) | 150 mg | $1,242.27 [1.2.7] | $292.50 - $396.41 [1.2.4, 1.2.5] |
| Selzentry (Brand) | 300 mg | $1,697.85 [1.3.6] | ~$1,242 [1.3.7] |
| Maraviroc (Generic) | 300 mg | $1,319.56 (average retail) [1.2.1] | ~$396.41 [1.2.5] |
How to Reduce the Cost of Maraviroc
Several strategies can help make this vital medication more affordable.
- Use Prescription Discount Cards: Services like GoodRx, SingleCare, and WellRx offer free coupons that can reduce the cash price of generic maraviroc by over 70% [1.2.1, 1.2.9]. These are particularly useful for those who are uninsured or underinsured.
- Opt for the Generic Version: Always ask your doctor if the generic version, maraviroc, is a suitable option for you. The cost savings are substantial compared to the brand-name Selzentry [1.3.1, 1.3.8].
- Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): ViiV Healthcare, the manufacturer of Selzentry, operates a Patient Assistance Program (PAP) through ViiVConnect. Eligible patients who are uninsured or underinsured may be able to receive their medication at no cost [1.4.1, 1.6.1, 1.6.6]. Eligibility typically depends on residency, income level (at or below 500% of the Federal Poverty Level), and insurance status [1.4.2, 1.6.7].
- ViiVConnect Savings Card: For those with commercial insurance, ViiV Healthcare also offers a savings card that can help with out-of-pocket costs like copays [1.6.2].
- Shop Around: Compare prices at different pharmacies. Online platforms like Cost Plus Drugs also offer transparent, low-cost pricing on some generic medications [1.2.4].
Conclusion
While the sticker price of maraviroc can be high, especially for the brand-name version Selzentry, numerous resources exist to lower the cost. The introduction of generic maraviroc has dramatically reduced prices [1.3.1]. By utilizing prescription discount cards, exploring manufacturer assistance programs like ViiVConnect [1.4.1], and comparing pharmacy prices, patients can significantly reduce their financial burden for this essential HIV treatment. Open communication with your healthcare provider about cost concerns is the first step toward finding an affordable and effective treatment plan. For more information on assistance, consider visiting ViiVConnect.
