If you or someone you know suffers from asthma, then you might have experienced the skyrocketing prices of asthma inhalers. It's a common complaint among patients that the cost of these inhalers is too high, and it's not just a matter of convenience or luxury. Asthma can be a life-threatening condition, and inhalers are essential to keep it under control. So what makes asthma inhalers so expensive?
A Complex Manufacturing Process
The first reason is the complexity of the manufacturing process. Inhalers are not like ordinary drugs that can be manufactured in a straightforward manner. There are two types of inhalers: metered dose inhalers (MDIs) and dry powder inhalers (DPIs). MDIs are pressurized canisters that contain a propellant, a drug, and a valve. When you press the nozzle, it releases a spray of the drug that you inhale. DPIs, on the other hand, are dry powders that you inhale without the use of a propellant. Both types of inhalers require a precise and complicated manufacturing process.
For example, the cans that contain the propellant in MDIs need to be pressurized to a specific level, which requires strict quality control. Moreover, the drug particles in DPIs need to be of a specific size and shape to be effective, which requires specialized equipment and techniques. All of these factors add to the cost of the inhalers.
Image Source: Northwest Pharmacy
Patent Protection
Another reason for the high cost of asthma inhalers is the patent protection that extends the exclusivity of a particular medication. After a drug is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the manufacturer has an exclusive right to sell it for a certain period, usually 20 years. During this time, no other company can manufacture and sell the same drug. This monopoly allows the manufacturer to set the price of the drug at a premium level to recoup the costs of research and development. Once the patent protection ends, other companies can enter the market and offer generic versions of the drug at a lower price.
However, inhalers are not a typical drug. The device that delivers the drug is also patented, providing additional protection to the manufacturer. For example, the MDI inhaler for Advair, a popular asthma medication, has been patented until 2025. This means that no other company can make a generic version of the inhaler until that time, creating a near-monopoly in the market that allows the manufacturer to charge a high price.
Image Source: Packaging Strategies
The Role of Insurance Companies
Finally, insurance companies play a significant role in determining the price of asthma inhalers. Insurance companies negotiate with drug manufacturers to determine the price at which they will cover a particular medication. The manufacturers, in turn, set the price of the drug to cover their costs and make a profit. Therefore, the cost of asthma inhalers can vary depending on the insurance plan you have. If your insurance plan does not cover a particular medication or does not negotiate a lower price with the manufacturer, you may end up paying more out of pocket.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, the cost of asthma inhalers is a result of several factors, including the complexity of the manufacturing process, patent protection, and the role of insurance companies. These factors combine to create a high price that can be difficult to afford for many patients, particularly those without good insurance coverage. If you are struggling to afford your asthma medication, talk to your doctor about alternatives, such as generic versions or switching to a different medication that may be more affordable.
If you are looking for 8 Things To Try Before A Restasis Coupon - Best Rx For Savings you've visit to the right page. We have 5 Pictures about 8 Things To Try Before A Restasis Coupon - Best Rx For Savings like Restasis Eye Drops : Why Are Restasis Eye Drops So Expensive, Restasis, Special Features - Why are Asthma Inhalers So Expensive? and also Special Features - Why are Asthma Inhalers So Expensive?. Read more:
8 Things To Try Before A Restasis Coupon - Best Rx For Savings
restasis
Restasis Dr. - En They Net - YouTube
restasis dr
Restasis Launches New Multi-dose Dispenser | 2017-10-11 | Packaging
restasis dose multi packaging dispenser launches packages
Special Features - Why Are Asthma Inhalers So Expensive?
inhalers asthma
Restasis Eye Drops : Why Are Restasis Eye Drops So Expensive, Restasis
restasis hydrochlorothiazide ramipril expiration
Restasis dr.. 8 things to try before a restasis coupon. Restasis dose multi packaging dispenser launches packages
