Arexvy Vaccine Overview
Arexvy is a single-dose vaccine recommended for preventing respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in adults aged 60 and older. A prescription for Arexvy can be obtained from either your local pharmacy or your healthcare provider’s office. This article explores the cost, insurance coverage, and ways to save on Arexvy.
How Much Does Arexvy Cost?
Arexvy was one of two RSV vaccines approved by the FDA in 2023. While it can cause mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can be serious for infants and older adults. Due to the vaccine’s newness, there are no generic alternatives. Without insurance, the cost of Arexvy is approximately $636 per dose. However, insurance can significantly reduce this cost. Let’s explore how.
Monthly Cost of Arexvy
According to the American Medical Association, Arexvy requires only a single dose, so there is no monthly cost. Current data suggest that RSV vaccines provide protection for multiple seasons, meaning you likely won’t need Arexvy annually, unlike the flu shot.
Factors Influencing Arexvy’s Cost
“The main factor affecting the cost of Arexvy is your insurance plan,” says Razan Hendi, Pharm.D., a hospice consultant pharmacist at DeltaCare Rx. If your insurance covers Arexvy, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on deductibles or copays. Without insurance, costs will vary by pharmacy location and any prescription discount cards you use.
Is There a Generic Arexvy?
Currently, there is no generic version of Arexvy as it is a new drug approved in 2023.
Insurance Coverage for Arexvy
Arexvy is covered under Medicare Part D when prescribed by a healthcare provider. Because the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends it, Medicare Part D must cover Arexvy with no out-of-pocket cost to the patient. The same applies to Medicaid.
Arexvy is also typically covered by most commercial and private insurance plans, thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which requires insurance providers to cover ACIP-recommended vaccines when given by an in-network provider. However, some people with private insurance may still face copays, given the vaccine’s recent approval.
Cost of Arexvy Without Insurance
Without insurance, the average retail price of Arexvy is $636 for a single-dose, 120 mcg/0.5 mL vaccine. Unfortunately, there is no generic version, so opting for a cheaper alternative isn’t possible. The only other RSV vaccine on the market, Abrysvo, is slightly cheaper but may not be suitable for everyone. Arexvy has been found more effective for older adults with underlying conditions.
How to Save on Arexvy Without Insurance
Because RSV vaccines are new, no generic versions exist, making it challenging to afford Arexvy without insurance. Fortunately, state-funded programs like Medicaid and Medicare cover Arexvy at no cost when prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. Most private insurance plans also cover the vaccine.
Since many insured individuals can receive the Arexvy vaccine free of charge, no manufacturer coupons or rebates are available. However, if you lack insurance, here are two ways to save money:
1. Use a SingleCare Discount Card
The SingleCare prescription discount card can reduce the cost of Arexvy to $285 when used at participating pharmacies. Remember, discounts vary, so compare prices locally.
2. Consider Abrysvo
The other RSV vaccine, Abrysvo, approved for adults over 60 and pregnant women, is cheaper at $477. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if Abrysvo is a viable and cost-effective option.
| Drug Name | Price without Insurance | SingleCare Price |
|---|---|---|
| Arexvy | $636 per 120 mcg/0.5 mL | $285 per 120 mcg/0.5 mL |
| Abrysvo | $477 per 120 mcg/0.5 mL | $300 per 120 mcg/0.5 mL |
