Austedo (deutetrabenazine) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease.

Austedo Medication Cost: Understanding What to Expect and How to Manage It

Austedo (deutetrabenazine) is a prescription medication primarily used to treat chorea associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia. For patients and their families, understanding the cost of such specialized medication is a significant concern. The price of Austedo can vary widely due to numerous factors, making it essential to be informed and proactive in exploring all available options to manage potential expenses.

What is Austedo Used For?

Before delving into costs, it's helpful to understand Austedo's therapeutic role. It is an FDA-approved prescription drug for the treatment of chorea (involuntary movements) associated with Huntington's disease and tardive dyskinesia (a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements). As a specialized medication, its development and distribution costs contribute to its market price.

Key Factors Influencing Austedo Medication Cost

The price you pay for Austedo is not a fixed number and can be influenced by several crucial elements:

Manufacturer and Patent Status

Austedo is manufactured by Teva Pharmaceuticals. As a branded, patented medication, it does not currently have a generic equivalent available. This status allows the manufacturer to set the price without direct generic competition, which typically keeps costs higher compared to generic drugs.

Dosage and Supply

The prescribed dosage and the supply duration (e.g., a 30-day supply) will directly impact the total cost. Austedo is available in different strengths (e.g., 6 mg, 9 mg, 12 mg), and higher strengths or larger quantities will generally result in higher costs.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance plays a pivotal role in determining out-of-pocket expenses. Coverage varies significantly based on your specific health insurance plan, whether it's a private plan, Medicare Part D, or Medicaid. Many specialty medications like Austedo require prior authorization from your insurer, meaning your doctor must demonstrate medical necessity before the drug is covered.

Pharmacy Pricing and Location

Prices can differ between pharmacies, even within the same geographic area. Independent pharmacies, large chain pharmacies, and mail-order pharmacies may have different pricing structures and negotiated rates with insurers. It's always a good practice to compare prices if possible.

Patient Assistance Programs and Discounts

Pharmaceutical companies often offer patient assistance programs (PAPs) to help eligible individuals afford their medications. These programs can significantly reduce or even eliminate out-of-pocket costs for those who qualify based on income and insurance status.

Estimating the Potential Cost of Austedo

Without insurance, the cash price for Austedo can be substantial, often ranging into several thousands of dollars per month. However, very few patients pay the full list price, especially for specialty medications. With insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your plan's deductible, co-pay, or co-insurance for prescription drugs. It is crucial to understand that even with good insurance, specialty drug costs can still be high until your deductible is met.

To get the most accurate estimate for your specific situation, you should:

• Contact your health insurance provider directly to inquire about your specific coverage for Austedo, including any deductibles, co-pays, or prior authorization requirements.


• Speak with your prescribing physician's office, as they often have experience navigating the cost aspects of medications they prescribe and can assist with prior authorization processes.


• Consult with your preferred pharmacy to get a cash price quote and compare it with other pharmacies.

Strategies to Help Manage Austedo Costs

Navigating medication costs can be challenging, but several strategies can help reduce your financial burden:

Leverage Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs

Teva Pharmaceuticals, the maker of Austedo, offers a program called Teva Shared Solutions. This program provides support services, including information on financial assistance options, for eligible patients. Your doctor's office can often help you enroll or provide more information on how to access these resources.

Understand and Maximize Your Insurance Benefits

Work closely with your insurance company and doctor's office to ensure all prior authorization requirements are met promptly. Understand your plan's formulary, deductibles, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums. If you anticipate high costs, discuss appeals processes with your insurer if coverage is initially denied.

Explore Government and Non-Profit Programs

For individuals with Medicare Part D, check your plan's coverage and investigate if you qualify for Extra Help, a Medicare program that assists with prescription drug costs. Medicaid programs also offer coverage for eligible individuals. Additionally, some non-profit organizations may provide financial assistance for specific conditions.

Discuss Treatment Options with Your Doctor

Maintain an open dialogue with your doctor about all available treatment options. While Austedo does not currently have a generic equivalent, discussing your financial concerns can help your doctor provide guidance on managing costs within your treatment plan.

Compare Pharmacy Prices

Even with insurance, it can be worthwhile to compare prices at different pharmacies. Sometimes, a pharmacy's cash price might be lower than your co-pay, or one pharmacy might offer better overall pricing for specialty medications due to different contracts or discounts.

Managing the cost of Austedo medication requires diligent research and proactive engagement with healthcare providers, insurance companies, and patient assistance programs. By understanding the factors that influence pricing and exploring available support options, patients and their families can better navigate the financial aspects of their treatment journey. Remember, this information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice or direct consultation with your healthcare provider or financial advisor regarding your specific situation.