Navigating the Complex Web of Prescribing Amyloidosis Therapeutics: A Primer

Abstract

Advancement in the diagnosis and treatment of transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy has made great strides in recent years. Novel therapeutics for transthyretin amyloidosis such as tafamidis, patisiran, and inotersen have shown significant benefits in a not-so-rare disease but come with high listing price tags ranging from a quarter to more than a half million dollars per year. These costs create significant financial barriers for the majority of patients, especially those with existing Medicare insurance plans. Of 72 patients reviewed, 67% were Medicare beneficiaries. Financial assistance was explored for the majority, and 37 (51%) patients with Medicare Part D received financial assistance that reduced their copayments to $0. Only one-third of our patients were able to afford these medications without any forms of financial assistance. Of these patients, 4 (6%) had the highest copayments ranging from $13 000 to $15 000 per year. To navigate the complexities of prescribing and affordability in amyloidosis, a multidisciplinary team including a dedicated clinical pharmacist is crucial in guaranteeing patients’ success to secure these novel therapeutics. In this article, we discuss our experiences with prescribing, acquiring insurance authorizations, and financing these life-saving medications based on patient-specific insurance plans and socioeconomic status.