WESTMINSTER, Colo., Dec 6, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- The U.S. manufacturer of a
chemotherapy drug for a rare cancer has priced it at $30,000 a month, which some
doctors say is out of line with its benefits.
Folotyn is made by Allos Therapeutics, a Colorado company that sells no other
drugs, The New York Times said. It is appearing at a time when the healthcare
debate has thrown a spotlight on drugs, especially those used against cancer,
that extend life for a short time at a high price.
The drug has been shown in a clinical trial to shrink tumors in patients with
peripheral T-cell lymphoma, an aggressive cancer diagnosed in about 5,600 people
in the United States annually. Folotyn has not been shown to prolong life.
Company officials say the price is similar to that of other therapies for rare
cancers. They also argue developing the first approved treatment for peripheral
T-cell lymphoma involved significant investment.
"It's a very aggressive disease, and patients right now have no options," said
James V. Caruso, the chief commercial officer.
Dr. Lee Newcomer, senior vice president for oncology at UnitedHealthcare, called
the price "unconscionable." He said Folotyn would cost the insurer about as much
as it now spends on all treatment for lymphoma patients.
URL: www.upi.com
Copyright 2009 by United Press International