You’ve probably landed on this page because you’ve asked yourself (and Google) questions like; “What is Aubagio (or its generic counterpart Teriflunomide), how does it work, and can I even afford it?” QuickRx is here to answer all of your questions and more about Aubagio. Welcome to our “FAQ” blogs, a series where we address all of the most commonly-asked questions about Aubagio and many other medications. You can see a short list of FAQs on our Aubagio page as well. Consider us your trusted source for Aubagio and all of your other prescription-related questions.
Let’s start with the main question on most peoples’ minds when they first encounter a prescription that is new to them; What is the cost of Aubagio? Aubagio’s Cost can depend on a few things which will be unique to each person taking this medication. The main factor being their insurance plan(s). Different plans may offer different coverage, and along with this each person’s cost will also depend on whether or not they have met their deductible. Yes, unfortunately your medication may cost more at the beginning of the year than in later months.
So, what is a health insurance deductible and how does it work? Let’s break this process down a bit to offer a more complete understanding of the entire Aubagio billing process;
A health insurance deductible is the amount of money you must pay out of pocket for covered medical expenses before your insurance company starts to contribute to the costs. It is a fixed annual amount that you are responsible for paying before your insurance coverage kicks in.
Here’s how a health insurance deductible typically works:
- Deductible amount: When you enroll in a health insurance plan, your insurance provider will specify the deductible amount. It can vary depending on the plan you choose and can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
- Covered services: Health insurance plans often cover a wide range of medical services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, laboratory tests, and prescription medications. However, you may be required to pay for these services in full until you meet your deductible.
- Accumulating costs: As you receive covered medical services and incur expenses, you are responsible for paying the full cost of those services until you reach your deductible amount. This means you’ll pay out of pocket for doctor visits, medications, or any other covered services until your expenses reach the deductible.
- Meeting the deductible: Once you’ve paid the full amount of your deductible for the year, your insurance coverage changes. At this point, your insurance company will typically start sharing the cost of covered services with you according to the terms of your plan. This could involve paying a percentage of the costs (co-insurance) or a fixed amount (co-payment).
- Resetting the deductible: In most cases, the deductible resets annually, usually at the start of a new calendar year or policy period. You’ll need to start meeting the deductible again before your insurance coverage fully applies.
It’s important to review your health insurance plan documents or contact your insurance provider directly to understand the specific details of your deductible and how it applies to your coverage. Additionally, certain services may be exempt from the deductible and may have separate co-pays or coverage rules.
There is hope with Aubagio Copay Assistance!
Now that we got that all sorted, it’s time we reached the light at the end of the tunnel- how to get Aubagio Copay Assistance. There are numerous Aubagio copay assistance programs. You may have already heard of these programs referred to as “Aubagio Copay Cards.” At this point you are probably asking yourself; “What’s the catch?” because it seems there’s always a catch, right?
Well, the catch is that these Aubagio Copay Assistance Programs can often be very difficult to find and to some they may feel impossible to navigate once (if) they’ve been found. That’s where QuickRx comes in. AT NO ADDITIONAL COST TO PATIENTS our team will handle all of the legwork for you to get as much Aubagio Copay Assistance as possible. We do our best to make your end of the process contain as little work as possible. Typically, the process for obtaining Aubagio copay assistance with us will start with you filling out the Aubagio start form on this page here (also linked at the bottom of this article) and submitting some supporting documentation.
That’s it! We take over from there to ensure that you get every dollar for which you qualify. After that, we see to it that your Aubagio Copay Assistance is not only applied directly to your current prescription with us and delivered to your door if needed, but that your copay assistance can be renewed for as long as possible. At QuickRx we truly believe that obtaining much-needed and often life-saving prescriptions shouldn’t ever be difficult or costly. Afterall, medical care is a human right and we’re willing to do what it takes for Americans to obtain it.
What is Aubagio used for?
Aubagio (Teriflunomide) is a prescription medication used for the treatment of certain forms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Specifically, it is indicated for the following:
- Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS): Aubagio is approved to reduce the frequency of relapses and delay the progression of physical disability in adults with relapsing forms of MS.
- Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS): Aubagio can be prescribed to individuals with CIS, which is the first episode of neurological symptoms suggestive of MS. It helps to reduce the risk of developing clinically definite MS.
- Active Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS): Aubagio is also approved for the treatment of active SPMS in individuals who continue to experience relapses or evidence of inflammatory activity.
It is important to note that Aubagio is not intended for use in primary progressive MS or for individuals younger than 18 years old. The exact mechanism of action of Aubagio is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve immunomodulatory effects, suppressing the immune response that contributes to inflammation and damage in MS.
The decision to use Aubagio or any other medication should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your specific condition, medical history, and individual needs.
How does Aubagio work?
Aubagio (Teriflunomide) is a medication used for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The exact mechanism of action of Aubagio is not fully understood, but it is believed to have immunomodulatory effects that help reduce the inflammation and damage seen in MS.
Here are some proposed ways in which Aubagio is thought to work:
- Inhibition of pyrimidine synthesis: Aubagio is a pyrimidine synthesis inhibitor. Pyrimidines are essential building blocks for DNA and RNA synthesis, and their inhibition can affect the proliferation of rapidly dividing cells, including certain immune cells. By reducing the production of pyrimidines, Aubagio may suppress the proliferation and activation of immune cells involved in the inflammatory process of MS.
- Effects on immune cell activation: Aubagio has been shown to inhibit the activation of immune cells, including T cells and B cells, which play a role in the immune response in MS. By dampening the activation of these cells, Aubagio helps to reduce the immune-mediated inflammation and damage to the central nervous system.
- Reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines: Aubagio has been found to decrease the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). These cytokines contribute to the inflammatory response in MS, and their reduction helps to mitigate the inflammatory process.
By modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation, Aubagio aims to decrease the frequency of relapses, delay the progression of disability, and improve the overall outcomes for individuals with relapsing forms of MS.
It is important to note that the specific mechanisms through which Aubagio works in MS may still be the subject of ongoing research, and the full understanding of its action may continue to evolve. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for detailed information about Aubagio and its effects in your specific case.
Can I take Aubagio during pregnancy?
Aubagio (Teriflunomide) is known to have potential risks to a developing fetus, and it is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy. The use of Aubagio in pregnant women or women of childbearing potential requires careful consideration and discussion with a healthcare professional.
Here’s some important information regarding Aubagio and pregnancy:
- Teratogenic effects: Aubagio has been associated with fetal harm in animal studies, including birth defects and embryofetal death. The active metabolite of Aubagio, which has a longer half-life than the parent compound, can persist in the body for an extended period of time. Therefore, there is a risk of fetal exposure even after discontinuing Aubagio.
- Pregnancy planning: If you are planning to become pregnant, it is recommended to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider. In certain cases, a gradual elimination procedure called an “Aubagio elimination procedure” may be recommended to help reduce the level of Teriflunomide in the body before attempting to conceive.
- Contraception: It is important to use reliable contraception methods while taking Aubagio to prevent unintended pregnancy. Aubagio has a long half-life, so it can take a significant amount of time for the medication to be eliminated from the body.
- Pregnancy registry: There is a pregnancy registry called the Aubagio Pregnancy Registry that collects information on pregnancies occurring in women who have been exposed to Aubagio. Participation in such registries can help provide valuable data on the safety of medications during pregnancy.
It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider if you are considering pregnancy, are pregnant, or become pregnant while taking Aubagio. They can provide specific guidance based on your individual circumstances and help weigh the potential risks and benefits of continuing or discontinuing Aubagio in your situation.
What are the alternatives to Aubagio for Multiple Sclerosis?
There are several alternative medications available for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) that can be considered if Aubagio (Teriflunomide) is not suitable or preferred. The choice of alternative depends on various factors such as the specific type and severity of MS, individual patient characteristics, and treatment goals. Here are some common alternative options:
- Interferons: Interferon beta medications, such as Avonex, Betaseron, and Rebif, are commonly prescribed for MS. They work by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation. These medications are available in different formulations (intramuscular, subcutaneous) and dosing schedules.
- Glatiramer acetate: Glatiramer acetate (Copaxone, Glatopa) is another commonly prescribed medication for MS. It is a synthetic protein that resembles myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers. It is thought to act by modifying the immune response and reducing inflammation.
- Dimethyl fumarate: Dimethyl fumarate (Tecfidera) is an oral medication that is used for relapsing forms of MS. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, although its exact mechanism of action is not fully understood.
- Natalizumab: Natalizumab (Tysabri) is an intravenous medication used for moderate to severe relapsing forms of MS. It works by blocking specific immune cells from entering the central nervous system, thereby reducing inflammation.
- Fingolimod: Fingolimod (Gilenya) is an oral medication that modulates the immune system by trapping certain immune cells in the lymph nodes, preventing them from reaching the central nervous system and causing inflammation.
- Ocrelizumab: Ocrelizumab (Ocrevus) is an intravenous medication approved for relapsing forms of MS as well as primary progressive MS. It targets specific immune cells involved in the immune response against myelin, reducing inflammation and disease activity.
These are just a few examples of alternative medications for MS. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or MS specialist, who can evaluate your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment option based on your individual needs and circumstances.
What is the cost of Aubagio without insurance?
For many Americans, Aubagio can be considered incredibly expensive without insurance or any sort of Aubagio copay assistance. Without anything to cut the cost, this medication can be in the range of thousands of dollars. Before you head to the top right corner to close this page- QuickRx has access to hundreds of copay assistance programs, and we’ve set out to help every person we can.
What is Aubagio Copay Assistance, and how does it work?
Aubagio (Teriflunomide) copay assistance exists in the form of many programs that are designed to help offset the cost of this medication for patients who qualify. Often these types of programs are available in two main places; the manufacturer may have a savings program (sort of like a coupon) and/or there may be financial assistance available from a multitude of non-profits.
Often, what we have found to be the biggest barrier to patients receiving the financial assistance they are due has been knowledge of the existence of these programs and how to actually access & process the savings through a pharmacy. That is exactly where QuickRx comes in.
We have a team that is fully dedicated to helping people access all available cost-saving options for their medications. Not only does our team already have the knowledge of how & where to locate the savings, but often we may have existing relationships with the entities offering the savings. This means that overall, the process can be a lot faster and easier for everyone involved- especially you!
Does the copay assistance program cost me any money?
NO! Participating in any sort of savings program should never cost you money. Furthermore, with QuickRx the charges for these services will never be reflected in your copays or anywhere else in our services.
How do I find out if I qualify for Aubagio copay assistance programs?
It’s super simple to find out if you qualify. You can either click the button at the bottom of this article and fill out the form, of you can give us a call directly at any time during normal business hours
Is Aubagio covered by Medicare and/or traditional insurance?
The coverage of Aubagio (Teriflunomide) by Medicare or traditional insurance plans can vary depending on factors such as the specific insurance plan, formulary coverage, and individual eligibility. It’s important to check with your insurance provider or Medicare directly to determine the coverage details for Aubagio in your specific situation.
Here are a few general points to consider:
- Medicare coverage: Medicare provides health coverage for individuals aged 65 and older or those with certain disabilities. Medicare Part D prescription drug plans typically cover medications like Aubagio. However, coverage can vary among different plans. It is advisable to review the formulary or drug list of your specific Medicare Part D plan to determine whether Aubagio is covered and at what cost-sharing level.
- Traditional insurance coverage: Coverage for Aubagio under traditional insurance plans (such as employer-sponsored plans or individual plans) can vary based on the specific policy and formulary. It is recommended to review your insurance plan’s drug formulary or contact your insurance provider directly to understand the coverage details, including any copayments, deductibles, or prior authorization requirements.
- Prior authorization and step therapy: Some insurance plans, including Medicare Part D plans, may require prior authorization or step therapy before covering Aubagio. Prior authorization involves obtaining approval from the insurance company before the medication is covered. Step therapy requires trying and failing other specified medications before Aubagio can be prescribed.
- Patient assistance programs: If Aubagio is not covered by your insurance or the out-of-pocket costs are high, you may explore patient assistance programs offered by the drug manufacturer. These programs can provide financial assistance or discounts to eligible individuals who meet specific criteria. It’s advisable to contact the manufacturer or visit their website to inquire about any available assistance programs.
Remember, coverage for Aubagio can vary depending on the specific insurance plan and location. It’s important to verify the coverage details, including copayments, deductibles, and any specific requirements, with your insurance provider or Medicare to understand the extent of coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
Additionally, our team is here to help you navigate all of this. When you call one of our pharmacy locations or our headquarters, someone will be available to answer all of your questions about your insurance, your medications, and anything else pertaining to your prescriptions. Switch to QuickRx today and see how big of a difference we can make for you.
