AstraZeneca, the United Kingdom-based pharmaceutical giant, has made a significant announcement that will greatly impact asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients in the United States. Starting from June 1, the company will cap out-of-pocket costs for its entire range of inhaler products at $35 for eligible patients. This move is aimed at addressing the issue of affordability for essential medications, but AstraZeneca’s CEO, Pascal Soriot, emphasizes that the company cannot tackle this problem alone.
It is important to note that only people enrolled in AstraZeneca’s savings programs are eligible for this new price cap. Additionally, individuals enrolled in federal government insurance programs are excluded due to government restrictions. However, some uninsured or underinsured patients may still be able to take advantage of the reduced cost.
This announcement from AstraZeneca comes as the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, chaired by Senator Bernie Sanders, is investigating major inhaler manufacturers. The committee claims that Americans pay significantly higher prices for inhalers compared to other countries. For instance, AstraZeneca’s Breztri Aerosphere inhaler costs $645 in the United States but only $49 in the United Kingdom. Boehringer Ingelheim’s Combivent Respimat is priced at $489 in the United States and a mere $7 in France. The price disparity continues with GlaxoSmithKline’s Advair HFA costing $319 in the United States and $26 in the United Kingdom. Similarly, Teva’s QVAR RediHaler is priced at $286 in the United States and just $9 in Germany.
Senator Sanders has commended AstraZeneca’s decision and has called on other major inhaler manufacturers to follow suit. He believes that if AstraZeneca and Boehringer Ingelheim can cap the cost of inhalers at $35 in the United States, GlaxoSmithKline and Teva should be able to do the same. Senator Sanders stresses the need for fair pricing and affordability of essential medications, particularly inhalers, which are crucial for millions of Americans suffering from asthma and COPD.
The impact of this announcement is significant, considering that approximately 25 million Americans have asthma, and there are at least 10 million reported asthma exacerbations each year. COPD is also prevalent, affecting an estimated 16 million Americans. These lung conditions cause restricted airflow and breathing difficulties, making inhalers a lifeline for those affected.
Senator Sanders and the Senate HELP Committee remain dedicated to addressing the issue of high prescription drug prices in the United States. The committee will continue their efforts to ensure that Americans no longer pay exorbitant prices compared to other countries.
AstraZeneca’s decision to cap inhaler expenses at $35 for eligible patients is undoubtedly a step in the right direction. It provides relief for many individuals struggling with the high costs of essential medications. However, as AstraZeneca’s CEO points out, broader healthcare system reforms are necessary to ensure long-term affordability for patients. The company’s move has also put pressure on other major inhaler manufacturers to lower their prices, further emphasizing the need for fair pricing in the pharmaceutical industry.
