Bad publicity for Genentech.

Implications: How much should packaging of a drug cost?

Analysis: The article brings out the point that similar drugs cost the patient/insurance company different amounts depending on its intended use.

One type of medication works well to improve vision in patients with Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD). It comes as a anti cancer drug, or anti ARMD drug. They are slightly different, but in the same family of drugs.

Why should anyone pay $2000 per intraocular injection if  a similar drug can be had for $50. It makes no sense to me.

Avastin is sold in large quantities to be administered to a whole body. Lucentis is sold to be administered inside the eyeball itself. Both drugs work, although a study is now being conducted to determine if one is better than the other for ARMD.

Pending the results of the aforementioned study.....why spend so much more? It makes Genentech look bad. Why not change the pricing structure of the Lucentis? The stuff works! I see it in my patients. The company has a right to an return on investment, but the cost differential is ridiculous.