ICER Recommends Deep Discounts for Ulcerative Colitis Treatments

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that leads to chronic inflammation and ulcers in the digestive tract. The condition is characterized by frequent diarrhea, abdominal or rectal pain, and weight loss and fatigue. ICER estimates that on average, UC patients spend and estimated $2,000 to $4,000 each year in out-of-pocket treatment costs. Moreover, treatment costs are prohibitively expensive for uninsured patients or those unable to work due to their disease. “Ulcerative colitis poses a significant lifetime burden for patients and caregivers, many of whom need new treatments to help with symptoms and avoid major surgical intervention,” said Pamela Bradt, ICER’s chief scientific officer.

There are 8 targeted immune modulators (TIMs) on the market for ulcerative colitis that have proved beneficial to patients. However, they are simply too expensive, even after rebates, according to ICER’s calculations. Brandt went on to say, “The costs of these drugs is substantial, especially over time, and the prices for all of these therapies remain above reasonable levels for the benefits patients receive.” Read more here and here.

(Sources: Phil Taylor, Pharma Phorum, September 12, 2020; Nicole DeFeudis, Endpoints News, September 14, 2020)