Strategies to Reduce the Cost of Creon
Key takeaways
- Creon (pancrelipase) is a prescription pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
- Without insurance, the retail price for Creon can be substantial, but most patients with commercial insurance or Medicare Part D have coverage.
- Several patient assistance programs, manufacturer savings cards, and government aid options can help lower out-of-pocket expenses for this medication.
- Comparing pharmacy prices and exploring alternative pancrelipase brands may also offer savings.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes to properly break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Creon, a brand-name prescription medication containing pancrelipase, replaces these enzymes to support normal digestion. While it is an effective treatment, the cost of Creon can be a significant concern. Fortunately, there are multiple avenues patients can explore to manage this expense.
01Understanding the Cost of Creon
The average retail price for Creon is approximately $1,701 for a supply of 100 delayed-release capsules. This translates to a per-capsule cost of around $17 without insurance coverage, which can amount to more than $20,000 annually. The final price a patient pays is influenced by several factors, most notably the prescribed dosage strength and the number of capsules taken per month, which varies based on individual dietary needs and pancreatic function.
It is important to note that few patients pay the full retail price. According to the manufacturer, AbbVie Inc., about 90% of individuals with commercial insurance or Medicare Part D plans have preferred coverage, which typically involves lower copays or coinsurance. However, insurance coverage does not guarantee a low cost. The out-of-pocket expense depends on a plan's formulary, which places drugs into tiers. As a brand-name medication, Creon is often placed on a middle or higher tier, resulting in higher patient cost-sharing compared to generic drugs on lower tiers.
02Pathways to Savings on Creon
Health insurance is the primary mechanism for reducing prescription drug costs, but it is not the only option. Patients, including those without insurance, have access to several other programs designed to lower out-of-pocket expenses for Creon.
031. Manufacturer Savings Programs
The manufacturer of Creon, AbbVie Inc., offers several patient support initiatives. The CFCareForward program provides Creon at little to no cost for eligible patients with EPI due to cystic fibrosis. Specific eligibility criteria and enrollment details are available on the program's website.
For patients facing financial hardship, the myAbbVie Assist program may provide Creon at no cost to qualifying uninsured, commercially insured, and Medicare beneficiaries who meet certain income requirements. Information on this patient assistance program can be found on the myAbbVie Assist site.
Additionally, AbbVie offers a copay savings card called Creon Complete for commercially insured patients with EPI caused by chronic pancreatitis, pancreatectomy, or other conditions (excluding cystic fibrosis). This card can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Enrollment and eligibility details are available on the official Creon website.
042. Medicare Extra Help
Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources may qualify for Extra Help, a federal program that provides financial assistance for prescription drug costs. This aid can be applied toward premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Details on eligibility and how to apply are available through the official Medicare website.
053. Medicaid
Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage, including prescription drugs, to individuals with limited income. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary by state. Patients should consult their state's Medicaid agency website for specific information.
064. Pharmacy Price Comparison
Prescription drug prices can vary considerably from one pharmacy to another, even within the same geographic area. Patients are encouraged to compare prices at local pharmacies or by using online pharmacy comparison tools before having a prescription sent to a specific location.
075. Consider Lower-Cost Alternatives
Creon is one of several brand-name pancrelipase medications approved for pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy. Other options include Zenpep, Viokace, Pancreaze, and Pertzye. While there is currently no generic version of Creon, some of these alternative brands may be less expensive. For example, the average retail price for Pancreaze is approximately $172 for 100 capsules.
According to David Nazarian, MD, founder of My Concierge MD, Creon, Pancreaze, and Zenpep share similar potential side effects, such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, diarrhea, nausea, and headaches.
Switching to a different brand based solely on price is not advisable without consulting a healthcare provider. A doctor or pharmacist can determine the most appropriate treatment based on a patient's specific health conditions, diet, medical history, and other medications.