In March 2024 AstraZeneca announced it will limit the out-of-pocket cost for its inhalers to $35 per month starting in June. This move aims to make inhalers more affordable for people with asthma and COPD and comes amid public and legislative pressure over drug pricing.
The announcement echoes a rival company's earlier price cap and responds to allegations about anti-competitive pricing that had drawn attention from lawmakers and patient groups. If you or someone you care for uses an inhaler, this change could lower monthly costs at the pharmacy counter.
First, many insured patients may see a lower co-pay for AstraZeneca inhalers, but results vary by plan. Some insurance plans already cover inhalers with low copays; others may still require prior authorization or higher cost sharing. If you’re uninsured or have a high deductible plan, the $35 cap could be a real relief.
Second, the cap applies to AstraZeneca-branded inhalers included in the company’s program. It might not apply to all versions, combination products, or generics. Always check the specifics for your inhaler before assuming the $35 price applies.
Third, pharmacies and insurers will need to update their systems to reflect the cap. That means you could see price changes at different times depending on where you fill prescriptions.
Call your insurance company. Ask whether your plan will honor the $35 monthly cap for your specific inhaler starting in June. Confirm any prior authorization or step therapy rules that could affect access.
Talk to your prescriber. If your current inhaler is affected, your doctor can prescribe the capped product or suggest alternatives that are covered at a lower cost. Don’t stop taking your medicine while you sort this out—ask your provider for a short-term refill if you need one.
Check pharmacy pricing. Prices can vary between chain pharmacies, independent stores, and mail-order services. If your inhaler isn’t covered under the cap, shop around or ask about manufacturer coupons and patient assistance programs.
Watch for policy changes. This cap may push other drugmakers to offer similar programs. It could also prompt more action from lawmakers focused on prescription drug costs. That won’t change things overnight, but it could shift how inhaler pricing is negotiated in the long run.
If you want quick help: bring your insurance card to the pharmacy, keep a note of your inhaler’s exact name and dosage, and save any manufacturer or pharmacy coupons. Small steps like these can reduce stress at pickup time.
We’ll keep tracking updates as companies and insurers implement the cap. If you need help understanding coverage or finding cheaper options, reach out to your clinic, pharmacist, or a patient advocacy group—many offer free guidance on medication costs.
In a significant move for asthma and COPD patients, AstraZeneca will cap the cost of its inhalers at $35 per month starting from June 2024. This decision, mirroring a rival's earlier action, aims to improve affordability amidst legislative scrutiny and allegations of anti-competitive practices.
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