How much does osimertinib cost?

Osimertinib is a targeted therapy medication primarily used in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) harboring specific mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Its cost can vary based on factors such as brand, dosage, and regional pricing strategies. Below is a detailed overview of osimertinib, including its indications, pharmacology, dosage, side effects, and available brands with their respective prices in Bangladesh.

Pharmacology and Mechanism of Action

Osimertinib is a kinase inhibitor that irreversibly binds to mutant forms of EGFR, including T790M, L858R, and exon 19 deletions. By selectively targeting these mutations, Osimert 80 mg (Osimertinib) inhibits tumor growth with minimal activity against wild-type EGFR, thereby reducing potential side effects. It is administered orally, achieving steady-state plasma concentrations after approximately 15 days of daily dosing. The drug has a half-life of approximately 48 hours, with the majority of elimination occurring through feces (68%) and urine (14%).

Indications

Osimertinib is indicated for:

First-line treatment of patients with metastatic NSCLC whose tumors have EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 L858R mutations, as detected by an FDA-approved test.

Treatment of patients with metastatic EGFR T790M mutation-positive NSCLC whose disease has progressed on or after EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage of osimertinib is 80 mg orally once daily, with or without food. For patients who have difficulty swallowing tablets, the tablet can be dispersed in 60 ml of non-carbonated water. Stir until the tablet is dispersed into small pieces (the tablet will not completely dissolve) and swallow immediately. Do not crush, heat, or ultrasonicate during preparation. Rinse the container with an additional 120 ml to 240 ml of water and drink immediately.

Side Effects

Common adverse reactions (occurring in more than 20% of patients) include:

Diarrhea (42%)

Rash (41%)

Dry skin (31%)

Nail toxicity (25%)

Serious adverse reactions reported in 2% or more patients include pneumonia and pulmonary embolus. Electrocardiogram QTc prolongation and neutropenia have also been observed. It is recommended to monitor electrolytes and perform regular ECGs during treatment.

Available Brands and Pricing in Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, several pharmaceutical companies offer osimertinib under different brand names. Prices may vary based on packaging and dosage. Below is a list of available brands with their respective prices:

Irmukin (Genvio Pharma Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳425.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳12,750.00.

Osicent (Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳500.00; Pack of 10 tablets: ৳5,000.00.

Osikin (Ziska Pharmaceuticals Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳425.00; Pack of 10 tablets: ৳4,250.00.

Osimatab (Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳500.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳15,000.00.

Osimert (Everest Pharmaceuticals Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳425.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳12,750.00.

Osinib (Drug International Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳425.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳12,750.00.

Ositag (Beacon Pharmaceuticals PLC): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳550.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳16,500.00.

Osmigen (General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳425.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳12,750.00.

Tagribo (Techno Drugs Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳425.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳12,750.00.

Tasso (Jenphar Bangladesh Ltd.): 40 mg tablet; Unit Price: ৳290.00; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳8,700.00.

Tagrix (Beacon Pharmaceuticals Ltd.): 80 mg tablet; Pack of 30 tablets: ৳784.34.

Conclusion

Osimertinib offers a targeted therapeutic approach for patients with specific EGFR mutations in NSCLC. In Bangladesh, multiple brands provide this medication, with prices varying based on dosage and packaging.