Are you aware that nearly 65% of the population utilizes at least one prescription every year? This number might appear too much, yet the actual shock comes when you check out the cost of some medicines.
A question that often comes to every patient’s mind is, “Can I pay for my next prescription?” Regrettably, people have a right to worry as the medicine cost may add together. There is one medication available in the market today that has developed a specific status for its sharp prices.
Consumers have interrogated the cost of Dexilant and are often inquiring why is Dexilant so expensive. Dexilant has been around for more than 10 years. It appeared in the market in June of 2009. Since then, it has been a precious blessing for the healthcare industry.
Rather than the prices of Dexilant being moderately consistent, the medication has had a price inclination. Unquestionably, it contains its benefits and has facilitated patients with their healthcare necessities, but does that summon the price hike?
What is Dexilant, its uses, and how does it work?
Dexilant is a brand-name prescription medication renowned for its efficacy in managing various gastrointestinal issues, particularly gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and related symptoms. Dexilant belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are highly effective in reducing stomach acid production.
Beyond GERD, Dexilant is utilized to alleviate symptoms such as chronic cough, common cold-related acidity, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing, diarrhea, and vomiting. Left untreated, these symptoms can lead to prolonged discomfort and potential complications, emphasizing the necessity for effective symptom management.
Central to Dexilant’s mechanism of action is its active ingredient, Dexlansoprazole. This compound works by inhibiting the proton pumps in the stomach lining responsible for acid production. By reducing acid levels, Dexilant not only relieves symptoms but also aids in the healing of acid-induced damage to the esophagus and stomach lining.
Dexilant is recommended for use in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and above, highlighting its broad applicability across age groups. Its well-established safety profile, coupled with its efficacy in symptom relief and healing, underscores Dexilant’s role as a cornerstone in the management of gastrointestinal conditions.
Dexilant Side Effects:
Some potential side effects associated with Dexilant:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Flatulence
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
It’s important to remember that not everyone experiences these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. If you have concerns about side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while taking Dexilant, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
How much does Dexilant cost with and without insurance?
The cost of Dexilant can vary significantly depending on factors such as dosage strength, pharmacy location, insurance coverage, and whether a generic version is available. Generally, brand-name medications like Dexilant are more expensive than generic alternatives.
Without insurance, the retail price of Dexilant can range from approximately $250 to $400 for a 30-day supply, depending on the dosage strength (30 mg or 60 mg) and the pharmacy you purchase it from.
With insurance, the out-of-pocket cost for Dexilant can vary based on your specific insurance plan’s coverage and formulary. Many insurance plans require patients to pay a copayment or coinsurance for prescription medications, which can range from a few dollars to a percentage of the medication’s total cost.
Some patients may also be eligible for manufacturer coupons, patient assistance programs, or savings cards offered by the pharmaceutical company to help reduce their out-of-pocket expenses for Dexilant. These assistance programs can significantly lower the cost of medication for eligible individuals.
Why Is Dexilant So Expensive?
To answer this, you should first understand the behavior of the pharmaceutical market. When competitor medications come into the market, pharmaceutical organizations tend to begin hiking the prices. This may lead to severe competition between pharmaceutical organizations. However, finally, it is the patient who ends up paying the cost.
In January month of 2021, the average Dexilant cost increased by approx. 6%, increasing to an average of $12.30 per unit. This was roughly equal to a $1 increase per unit. Dexilant is its brand and its pharma company. There might be companies that pay for Dexilant. However, the Dexilant pharmaceutical organization is the direct supplier.
There are a few options like Lansoprazole and Omeprazole. And, it doesn’t precisely have a competitor about cost. This is for the reason that nobody but the Dexilant pharmaceutical organization manufactures it.
This implies that the pharmaceutical organization may pay for whatever costs it believes individuals would pay for it. Yet, as Dexilant is available with an expensive price tag, that doesn’t essentially mean that a person needs to pay that much for it.
Why is Dexilant So Expensive? The high cost of Dexilant and other brand-name medications can be attributed to several factors:
- Research and Development Costs: Pharmaceutical companies invest significant resources in research and development (R&D) to discover and develop new medications like Dexilant. These costs include expenses related to drug discovery, preclinical testing, clinical trials, and regulatory approval processes, which can amount to billions of dollars over many years.
- Patent Protection: After successfully developing a new medication, pharmaceutical companies typically obtain patents to protect their investment and exclusivity rights for a certain period, usually around 20 years. During this time, they have the sole right to manufacture and sell the medication, allowing them to recoup their R&D costs and generate profits.
- Marketing and Distribution: Pharmaceutical companies also spend substantial amounts on marketing and distribution to promote their brand-name medications like Dexilant. These expenses include advertising campaigns, sales representatives, and distribution networks, all of which contribute to the overall cost of the medication.
- Limited Competition: While brand-name medications like Dexilant have patent protection, generic versions typically become available after the patent expires. However, until then, there may be limited competition in the market, allowing pharmaceutical companies to maintain higher prices for their brand-name products.
- Healthcare System Dynamics: The complex dynamics of the healthcare system, including negotiations between pharmaceutical companies, insurance providers, pharmacy benefit managers, and government agencies, can also influence drug pricing. These negotiations may result in higher prices for brand-name medications like Dexilant.
When will generic Dexilant be available?
Generic Dexilant is available at LifeRx Pharmacy. The availability of generic Dexilant at LifeRx Pharmacy provides patients with an affordable alternative for managing their gastrointestinal conditions. Generic medications typically offer the same active ingredients and therapeutic effects as their brand-name counterparts but at a lower cost, making them a valuable option for individuals seeking more economical treatment options.
The availability of generic Dexilant at LifeRx Pharmacy underscores the pharmacy’s commitment to providing accessible and cost-effective healthcare solutions to its customers. By offering generic alternatives, LifeRx Pharmacy enables patients to access essential medications without compromising on quality or effectiveness.
Patients who have been prescribed Dexilant or its generic equivalent can now benefit from the convenience of obtaining their medication from LifeRx Pharmacy, a trusted provider known for its commitment to customer service and satisfaction. Additionally, the availability of generic Dexilant may help improve medication adherence and treatment compliance among patients, as cost can sometimes be a barrier to accessing essential medications.
FAQs:
When to take Dexilant morning or night?
If you experience symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) primarily during the day or after meals, taking Dexilant in the morning may be more beneficial. On the other hand, if your symptoms are more bothersome at night or while lying down, taking Dexilant before bedtime may be preferable.
Does Dexilant cause cancer?
There is no evidence to suggest that Dexilant directly causes cancer.
How long does it take Dexilant to work?
Dexilant typically starts working within a few days of treatment, although individual responses may vary. While some people may experience symptom relief soon after starting Dexilant, it may take up to one to four weeks for the medication to reach its full effectiveness in healing and managing symptoms associated with GERD.
Is Dexilant a PPI?
Yes, Dexilant is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by blocking the enzyme system in the stomach wall that produces acid, thereby reducing the amount of acid produced. This action helps to alleviate symptoms of conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and promotes healing of the esophagus and stomach lining.
How long does Dexilant stay in your system?
The elimination half-life of Dexilant is approximately 1-2 hours. However, it can take several days for Dexilant to be eliminated from the body. Factors such as individual metabolism, liver function, and kidney function can influence how long Dexilant remains in your system. Generally, it is recommended to wait at least 5 days after stopping Dexilant before switching to another proton pump inhibitor (PPI) or acid-reducing medication. As for why is Dexilant so expensive, there are several factors contributing to its high cost, this article explains that.
