Future Savings in 2025: Discounts and Extras
In the management of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), a common challenge for patients is the cost of prescription medications, particularly Creon. This article offers practical advice on how to reduce the long-term cost of Creon, a brand-name prescription medication.
Creon, a pancreatic enzyme supplement containing pancreatin (porcine-derived enzymes), is a crucial treatment for EPI due to conditions like cystic fibrosis. While over-the-counter enzymes may exist for other digestive issues, they do not fully substitute Creon.
One approach to lowering the cost of Creon is to work closely with insurance providers. Patients can request formulary exceptions or tier-lowering coverage, which may lead to lower copayments or coinsurance amounts. However, such requests often need approval and may be limited if Creon is on a specialty or non-formulary tier.
Another strategy is to consider generic or alternative pancreatic enzyme products. If generic versions of pancreatic enzyme supplements become available, they can be less expensive. Alternatively, choosing brands with similar ingredients may also help reduce costs.
Utilising mail-order pharmacies is another effective method for cost reduction. Obtaining a 90-day medication supply via mail order can reduce payment costs and improve convenience, potentially lowering total spending over time.
Discussing cost with healthcare providers is also essential. Doctors can help identify preferred or lower-cost pancreatic enzyme products that are equally effective, as well as assist with insurance paperwork for exceptions or financial assistance programs.
For those with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis, there is a patient assistance program called myAbbVie Assist. The manufacturer of Creon also offers savings programs, including Creon On Course and CFCareForward. Creon On Course is available for people with EPI due to pancreatitis, surgery to remove the pancreas, or other conditions.
To learn more about available assistance programs, ways to make the most of insurance coverage, and links to savings cards and other services, visit Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds. To understand the actual cost of Creon under your health insurance, it is essential to talk with your insurance provider.
It is important to note that the cost of Creon can vary based on factors such as treatment plan, insurance coverage, pharmacy used, and whether Creon has a savings program. For those without insurance, the cost of Creon with Medicare depends on individual plan coverage and benefits, copays, and Medicare deductible.
In summary, managing the cost of Creon involves working with insurance for formulary exceptions or tier reductions, considering generic or alternative pancreatic enzyme products, utilising mail-order pharmacies, and consulting health providers for cost-effective therapy options and assistance programs. By following these strategies, patients can potentially lower their long-term costs and make Creon more accessible.
[1] MedicineNet. (2021). How to Save Money on Prescriptions. Retrieved from https://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=225383 [2] FDA. (2019). FDA Approves New Formulation of Creon for the Treatment of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-formulation-creon-treatment-exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency [3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/exocrine-pancreatic-insufficiency/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355085 [4] National Pancreas Foundation. (2021). Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT). Retrieved from https://www.pancfoundation.org/about-pancreatic-disease/pancreatic-enzyme-replacement-therapy-pert [5] American Gastroenterological Association. (2021). Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.gastro.org/patient-center/disease-information/pancreatic-diseases/pancreatic-enzyme-replacement-therapy
- For individuals with Medicare, understanding the cost of Creon under their specific plan is vital, as it depends on individual coverage, copays, and Medicare deductible.
- To explore various assistance programs and cost-saving strategies related to Creon, patients can refer to resources like Medicine Assistance Tool, NeedyMeds, Creon On Course, and CFCareForward.
- For those without insurance, managing the cost of Creon can involve strategies such as working closely with insurance providers, considering generic or alternative pancreatic enzyme products, utilizing mail-order pharmacies, and consulting healthcare providers for cost-effective therapy options and assistance programs.
