New Drug Spotlight: Arexvy, Abrysvo, and Beyfortus
In 2023, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) approved three new vaccines for the prevention of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). RSV is a highly contagious, common respiratory virus that typically causes mild cold-like symptoms. However, it can cause serious illness in older adults and infants.
This year, the FDA approved:
- Arexvy and Abrysvo for RSV prevention in individuals 60 years of age and older – Arexvy approved 5/3/23 and Abrysvo approved 5/31/23
- Beyfortus for RSV prevention in infants aged <8 months (1st RSV season) and at-risk children aged 8 to 19 months (2nd RSV season) – approved 7/17/23
- Abrysvo was also approved for RSV prevention in pregnant individuals at 32 to 36 weeks gestation – approved 8/21/23
Population Impact:
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year RSV leads to approximately:
- 58,000-80,000 hospitalizations and 100-300 deaths in children under 5 years old
- 60,000-160,000 hospitalizations and 6,000 – 10,000 deaths among adults age 65 and older
Pricing:
- Arexvy $280
- Abrysvo $295
- Beyfortus $495 1st season / $990 2nd season
Management Strategy:
These vaccines are covered at $0 member cost share as an essential health benefit under the Affordable Care Act. Arexvy & Abrysvo for adults over 60 years, when administered in an ambulatory setting, are covered under the pharmacy benefit. Abrysvo for pregnant individuals at 32 through 36 weeks gestational age and Beyfortus for young children are administered in clinic and covered under the medical benefit.
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Additional Information: