Irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The symptoms of IBS-C include abdominal pain, bloating, and infrequent bowel movements. Treatment of IBS-C can be costly due to the need for multiple medications and therapies, including dietary changes, laxatives, and other prescription medications. Additionally, IBS-C can cause significant disruptions to a person’s quality of life, leading to missed workdays, decreased productivity, and increased healthcare costs.
One of the most significant contributors to the high cost of treating IBS-C is the lack of a definitive cure for the condition. Treatment typically involves the use of several different medications and therapies, which can add up quickly. For example, many people with IBS-C require regular use of prescription laxatives, which can be expensive. In this article, we shall be taking a good look at the cost of Linzess and the possible alternatives.
What is Linzess?
Linzess is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) and chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) in adults. It is a type of drug called a guanylate cyclase-C (GC-C) agonist.
When taken orally, Linzess works by binding to receptors in the intestines, which stimulates the secretion of chloride and water into the bowel, increasing the movement of stool through the intestines. This results in softer, more frequent bowel movements and can relieve constipation symptoms.
Linzess is typically taken once a day, on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. The recommended dosage is either 145 mcg or 290 mcg, depending on the individual’s condition and response to the medication.
Linzess can cause side effects, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, gas, bloating, and headache. These side effects are usually mild to moderate in intensity and resolve within a few days of starting the medication.
Linzess is not recommended for use in children under the age of 18. It is also not recommended for use in people with a history of bowel obstruction or those who have severe or persistent diarrhea.
How Much Does Linzess Cost?
The cost of Linzess can vary depending on several factors, such as the dosage, the location, and the type of health insurance coverage you have.
According to GoodRx, the average retail price for a 30-day supply of Linzess ranges from $400 to $500. However, with a Linzess coupon or discount card, the price can be reduced to around $300 to $400.
Many insurance plans also cover the cost of Linzess, but the amount covered and the out-of-pocket costs can vary depending on the plan. Some insurance plans may require prior authorization before covering the medication, while others may only cover a portion of the cost.
If you are concerned about the cost of Linzess, it is best to check with your insurance provider and your pharmacy to see what options are available to you. Additionally, you can also look for Linzess coupons or discount cards online to help lower the cost.
Why is Linzess So Expensive?
The high cost of Linzess can be attributed to several factors. First, Linzess is a relatively new medication, and the research and development costs associated with bringing a new drug to market are high. The company that developed and manufactures Linzess, Allergan (now part of AbbVie), spent a significant amount of money on clinical trials, regulatory approval, and marketing.
Second, Linzess is a specialty medication, meaning it is used to treat a specific condition and is not widely prescribed like more common medications. Specialty medications are often more expensive due to the complex manufacturing processes and the limited patient populations they serve.
Third, there is currently no generic version of Linzess available. Generic medications are typically much less expensive than brand-name medications once they become available, as other companies can produce and sell them at a lower cost. However, Linzess is still under patent protection, meaning no other companies can produce a generic version until the patent expires.
Finally, the cost of Linzess may also be influenced by the pricing strategies of pharmaceutical companies and the negotiating power of insurance providers and pharmacy benefit managers. Pharmaceutical companies set the list price for their medications, but the actual price paid by patients can be influenced by negotiations between insurers, pharmacy benefit managers, and drug manufacturers.
Is There A Cheaper Alternative To Linzess?
Yes, there are several alternatives to Linzess that may be less expensive. These include:
1. Generic linaclotide: Linaclotide is the active ingredient in Linzess. While there is no generic version of Linzess available, some pharmacies may carry a generic version of linaclotide, which can be less expensive.
2. Other GC-C agonists: There are other medications in the same class as Linzess, such as plecanatide (Trulance) and tenapanor (Ibsrela), which may be less expensive.
3. Over-the-counter laxatives: Over-the-counter laxatives, such as polyethylene glycol (Miralax) or bisacodyl (Dulcolax), may be less expensive than prescription medications and can be effective in relieving constipation.
4. Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as increasing fiber and water intake, exercising regularly, and managing stress, can also be effective in managing constipation symptoms.
If you are considering an alternative to Linzess, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor. They can help you determine the best course of treatment based on your individual needs and medical history. Additionally, you may also want to check with your insurance provider to see if they cover any of these alternative medications or treatments.
What Are The Available Discount Programs For Linzess?
There are several discount programs available for Linzess that may help lower the cost for eligible patients:
1. Linzess Savings Program: This program offers eligible patients savings on their Linzess prescription, with a maximum savings of up to $75 per month. Patients can enroll in the program online or by calling 1-855-354-7847.
2. Patient Assistance Programs: Allergan (now part of AbbVie), the manufacturer of Linzess, offers a patient assistance program for eligible patients who cannot afford their medication. The program provides free medication to those who qualify based on financial need.
3. Prescription Discount Cards: Prescription discount cards, such as GoodRx or RxSaver, can be used to lower the cost of Linzess at participating pharmacies. These cards are free to use and can provide significant discounts on prescription medications.
4. State Prescription Assistance Programs: Some states offer prescription assistance programs for eligible residents, which may provide discounts or assistance with medication costs. Eligibility requirements and benefits can vary by state.
5. Medicare Extra Help: Medicare beneficiaries who have limited income and resources may qualify for the Medicare Extra Help program, which can help with the cost of prescription medications, including Linzess.
It’s important to note that eligibility requirements and benefits for these discount programs can vary. You should check with the program to confirm eligibility and to see what benefits are available to you.
