How To Save on Harvoni, One of the Most Expensive Drugs in the US

Harvoni’s manufacturer, Gilead, just announced that they will soon be releasing an authorized generic for Harvoni. This is good news for your pocketbook, but it will still be incredibly expensive.

Here’s some information about the new generic, and tips on how to save on brand-name Harvoni.

What is Harvoni?

Used to treat hepatitis C, Harvoni is a once-daily combination drug with two anti-viral ingredients, ledipasvir and sofosbuvir. Most courses of treatment are about 12 weeks long, so while Harvoni is quite costly per month, you won’t be taking it for that long.

Hepatitis C is an infection that causes the liver to swell, leading to cirrhosis and liver cancer. Back in 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a study showing that HCV kills more Americans than any other infectious disease. Luckily, cures are available, but they are expensive.

When will generic Harvoni be available?

According to Gilead, generic ledipasvir/sofosbuvir will be available in January 2019. But here’s the kicker—the generic will launch with a list price of $24,000 for a 30-day supply. Technically that is more than a 20% discount off of expensive brand name Harvoni, but it still isn’t feasible for most Americans.

Luckily, there are some tips to help you save on the brand, at least while you wait for the generic to reach pharmacies.

Savings tip #1: use your insurance

The best way to save on Harvoni is to use your insurance. Harvoni is covered by most insurance plans. Just be aware that 80% of all commercial plans require patients to submit a prior authorization before they cover the drug. Prior authorizations can make it a bit more complex to access your drug, so if you need help, read more here.

If you find that Harvoni is not covered by your insurance plan, ask your doctor about an appeal. The exact process will depend on your insurance but often requires that you work with your doctor to submit an appeal letter.

Savings tip #2: pay as little as $5 a month with a copay card

Manufacturer Gilead offers a copay card to help insured patients afford Harvoni.

 

Savings tip #3: apply for a patient assistance program

Gilead also offers a patient assistance program to help low-income, uninsured patients save on Harvoni.

 

The My Support Path program can also help you navigate the insurance process and understand prior authorizations.

Savings tip #4: talk to your doctor about alternatives

Most alternatives used to treat hepatitis C are just as expensive as Harvoni. Sovaldi is comparable to Harvoni but is the 11th most expensive drug in the US, so unless it has better coverage from your insurance, you’ll still be paying a lot out of pocket. Another alternative from Gilead is Epclusa, and just like Harvoni, it will soon see a generic that will also cost $24,000 for a month’s supply.

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