"What makes Skyrizi, a treatment for plaque psoriasis, so expensive compared to other similar medications on the market?"

Skyrizi's development cost was significant: AbbVie invested over $1 billion in the research and development (R&D) of Skyrizi, including clinical trials and regulatory approvals.

Biologics are expensive to manufacture: Skyrizi is a biologic medication, which is more complex and costly to produce compared to traditional small-molecule drugs.

Supply chain entities take a portion of revenue: Pharmaceutical companies, distributors, and pharmacies involved in the supply chain take a portion of the revenue, driving up the final cost.

High pricing during patent period: Pharmaceutical companies, like AbbVie, often charge high prices for new medications during the patent period to maximize revenue.

Skyrizi is patented: As a patented drug, AbbVie has exclusivity over its production and pricing, allowing the company to set a high price without competition from generic alternatives.

The list price of Skyrizi is over $21,000 per dose: The Wholesale Acquisition Cost (WAC) for one dose of Skyrizi is $210,173.60 as of January 2024.

Uninsured patients face high out-of-pocket costs: The average out-of-pocket cost for uninsured patients for a 1.6 mL vial is $1,138.17, which amounts to over $33,000 for the first three months of treatment.

Skyrizi's pricing strategy includes discounts: AbbVie introduced a pricing plan in April 2024, offering an 88,500 first-year price, inclusive of two starter doses and 59,000 maintenance doses.

Other dosage forms can be more expensive: Pre-filled syringes or pre-filled pens may cost more than vials.

Patient assistance programs are available: Programs, like Skyrizi Complete, can help eligible patients save on out-of-pocket costs, potentially reducing the cost per dose to as low as $0.

Prescription rebates could help eligible patients: Rebates could help eligible commercially insured patients save on out-of-pocket costs.

Skyrizi's pricing differs in various countries: Pricing varies based on different healthcare systems and regulations, influencing patient access and affordability.