Table of Contents
I. Why Is Xarelto So Expensive in the US?
A medical condition that requires ongoing treatment can be overwhelming, particularly when medication costs become a significant concern.
One such medication is Xarelto (rivaroxaban), a commonly prescribed blood thinner known for its effectiveness in preventing blood clots. [1] The cost of Xarelto in the United States is eye-watering and can be a burden for many patients.
In this article, we will explore why Xarelto has a sky-high price tag in the U.S., discuss the various ways to pay for Xarelto, and provide tips on how to save costs on this medication.
Why Is Xarelto So Expensive in the US?
Various factors influence the cost of prescription medications in the United States, and Xarelto is no exception. From research and development to marketing expenses, pharmaceutical companies invest significant amounts of money to bring medication to the public. [2] These costs are reflected in the price of the medication once it's on the market.
In addition, patent protection laws in the U.S. grant exclusivity to pharmaceutical companies, allowing them to maintain a monopoly on the market. [2] During the patent period, generic versions of the drug cannot be produced, resulting in limited competition and higher prices.
Xarelto was originally manufactured by Johnson & Johnson and was approved by the FDA in 2011. Unfortunately, the patent for brand-name Xarelto is set to expire on July 31, 2039. [3] This means the more affordable generic version (rivaroxaban) will not be available in the U.S. until that date.
Fortunately, rivaroxaban has been available and accessible to American patients from online Canadian pharmacies since 2008. [4]
Paying For Xarelto
The cost of Xarelto varies greatly depending on your payment method: out of pocket, using Medicare, or buying through an online Canadian pharmacy like RxConnected. We’ve included a table below comparing the annual costs of each option.
+ Based on the Cigna Extra Rx (PDP) Plan (Plan ID: S5617-277-0)
In the following sections, we’ll explain the costs associated with each option in greater detail.
Paying Out of Pocket
The out-of-pocket expense for Xarelto can be staggering, often reaching hundreds of dollars per month. This financial burden can be overwhelming for individuals who depend on this medication to maintain their health and well-being.
The price of Xarelto varies depending on the dosage you’ve been prescribed. We’ve included a table below comparing the out-of-pocket cost of different Xarelto dosages at a U.S. pharmacy vs. RxConnected.
+ Based on Rite Aid Pharmacy 05423
As shown in the table above, the cost of Xarelto at a U.S. pharmacy can become quite expensive, especially for the average American. In contrast, an online Canadian pharmacy, like RxConnected, provides a significantly more affordable option.
Using Medicare
Using Medicare to pay for Xarelto can be a more affordable option for you and your family.
We’ve included a table below outlining how much you can expect to pay for Xarelto over the course of a year during different coverage periods.
+ Based on the Cigna Extra Rx (PDP) Plan (Plan ID: S5617-277-0)
While the price is still significantly high, using Medicare is a more affordable option than paying for Xarelto out of pocket in the U.S. However, the total annual cost is still out of reach for many Americans. This is especially true if you are taking more than one medication as a part of your treatment plan.
In the next section, we’ll dive into more accessible options for Xarelto.
How To Save Costs
Let's explore the various avenues available to make Xarelto more affordable for you. Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions regarding your health and finances.
Rivaroxaban
Many patients eagerly anticipate the availability of a generic version of medications as a potential solution for reducing healthcare costs. Generic drugs offer the same active ingredients as their brand-name counterparts and undergo rigorous quality and safety checks. [5]
Unfortunately, a generic version of Xarelto is not yet available in the United States. This delay is primarily due to the patent protection granted to Johnson & Johnson, the pharmaceutical company that developed Xarelto. As long as the patent remains in effect, other manufacturers cannot legally produce and market a generic alternative, resulting in limited competition and higher prices for consumers. [2]
In terms of Xarelto, this means a generic version will not be available in the U.S. until July 31, 2039. [3]
If you dread waiting that long for an affordable option, we have good news for you in the next section.
Using a Canadian Online Pharmacy
While awaiting the availability of a generic version of Xarelto in the U.S., there are alternative ways to save costs without compromising your health and safety.
One option is purchasing Xarelto or rivaroxaban from a reputable Canadian online pharmacy like RxConnected. Because the cost of Canada’s healthcare system is backed by the government, pharmaceutical companies face strict price regulations and patent laws that their counterparts in the U.S. do not. [6] [7] As a result, Canadian Xarelto prices are more affordable and generic options such as rivaroxaban are available more readily.
We’ve included a screenshot below showing the cost of a 2.5 mg dosage of Xarelto and rivaroxaban at RxConnected.
As shown in the screenshot above, a 56-tablet supply of Xarelto is available at $2.14 per tablet at a Canadian pharmacy. Additionally, a bigger supply of generic rivaroxaban (60 tablets) is available at $1.50 per tablet.
Let’s talk savings between the various options. Since rivaroxaban is not yet available in the U.S., we’ll compare the annual cost of Xarelto.
A quick note before we dive in: for all Medicare costs, we’ve based the price on the Cigna Extra Rx (PDP) Plan (Plan ID: S5617-277-0). If you have any questions about the pricing during different coverage phases, we’ve included a helpful table in the "Using Medicare" section. Additionally, all prices are in USD.
In the U.S., an annual supply of a 2.5 mg tablet of Xarelto retails for $6,633.72. However, if you are using Medicare, the price lowers to $2,713.56. This leads to annual savings of $3,920.16.
In Canada, an annual supply of a 2.5mg tablet of Xarelto retails for $705.60 (or $1.96 per tablet) at RxConnected. This leads to annual savings of:
- $5,928.12 compared to the retail cost of Xarelto 2.5 mg in the U.S.
- $2,007.96 compared to the cost of Xarelto 2.5 mg under Medicare
To place this into context, the annual retail price of Xarelto 2.5mg in the U.S. is equivalent to a nine-and-a-half-year supply of Xarelto from an online Canadian pharmacy.
Conclusion
Navigating the finances associated with prescription medication can be overwhelming, particularly for patients prescribed drugs like Xarelto. By understanding the factors influencing the price of Xarelto, exploring the availability of a generic version, and considering alternative cost-saving options, you can take proactive steps to manage the financial aspects of your healthcare journey.
Ultimately, by staying informed and taking advantage of available resources, you can find ways to alleviate the financial strain associated with Xarelto and prioritize your health and well-being.
If you have any questions about Xarelto or using an online Canadian pharmacy, please contact us, and we’ll be happy to help. If you’re ready to purchase Xarelto or rivaroxaban, visit the medication page for more information.
The content in this article is intended for informational purposes only. This website does not provide medical advice. In all circumstances, you should always seek the advice of your physician and/or other qualified health professionals(s) for drug, medical conditions, or treatment advice. The content provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.