CalRx aims to be another competitor in the field by introducing a lower-cost alternative — and possibly put “pressure on other manufacturers to lower their prices as well.”
According to the state and Civica, the suggested retail price is:
- No more than $30 for a 10mL vial of insulin
- No more than $55 for a 5-pack of 3 mL pens
According to the HCAI spokesperson in an email to KQED, the “out-of-pocket cost may be lower, depending on insurance coverage.”
Advocates for people with diabetes see the production as a win.
“We look forward to the rollout of CalRx® insulin in January,” said Christine Fallabel, director of state government affairs at the American Diabetes Association, in an email to KQED. “Any meaningful step to improve insulin affordability and provide additional options is a win for people with diabetes.”
Fallabel also pointed to the recent passage of Senate Bill 40 — which prohibits high copayments for a month’s supply of insulin — as another state decision that helps with accessibility.
What should I do if I am paying more than $55?
According to the HCAI spokesperson, “CalRx and Civica cannot mandate the final price to the consumer as this would conflict with antitrust and competition law.”
But the spokesperson stated in the email that Civica is planning to include a QR code on the side of the boxes, so consumers can report if they have paid more than $55 for the product.
“At which point Civica would contact the pharmacy for remediation,” the spokesperson said.
Where can I get CalRx insulin? Do I need a prescription?
You do not need to apply to access the new insulin, and there are no eligibility requirements. You do not need insurance.
“Broad wholesale distribution will allow any California pharmacy to order CalRx insulin glargine,” the state explained in the email. Mail-order pharmacy outreach is still ongoing.
People interested in the CalRx insulin can “ask their pharmacist or doctor if they can switch their prescription to CalRx insulin glargine,” continued the HCAI spokesperson. Since the CalRx insulin is interchangeable with other brand names, you would not need a new doctor’s prescription.
“Health plans will be responsible for communicating about CalRx insulin glargine with their provider and patient networks,” HCAI said.
Can people in other states access it?
According to the HCAI spokesperson, “Yes, Civica Rx’s glargine insulin will be available in other states under Civica Rx’s label.”
Where can I learn more information?
KQED’s April Dembosky contributed to this report.
