Market Dynamics and Financial Trajectory for Tirosint
Introduction to Tirosint
Tirosint, a brand name for levothyroxine sodium, is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. It is used to treat hypothyroidism and for TSH suppression in the management of certain thyroid cancers. The drug has been available in various forms, including tablets and, more recently, a liquid solution.
FDA Approval and Market Entry
In 2017, the FDA approved Tirosint-SOL, a liquid form of levothyroxine, for the American market. This approval marked a significant milestone for IBSA, the Italian-Swiss company that developed the liquid formulation. The FDA approval opened up a substantial market opportunity, with an estimated 18 million patients in the U.S. and a market valued at $2 billion to $105 million prescriptions annually[1].
Clinical Significance and Advantages
The liquid form of Tirosint has several clinical advantages over traditional tablet forms. Clinical studies have shown that Tirosint-SOL can overcome some of the limitations associated with levothyroxine tablets, such as interference from gastritis, coeliac disease, lactose intolerance, and certain foods and medications. For instance, patients using the liquid form do not need to wait an hour before eating breakfast, and the absorption is less affected by antacids or proton pump inhibitors[1].
Market Size and Growth
The global levothyroxine sodium market, which includes both tablet and liquid forms, is substantial and growing. As of 2022, the global levothyroxine sodium tablet market was valued at USD 3,713.7 million and is projected to reach USD 4,367.6 million by 2028, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.7%[3].
For the broader levothyroxine sodium market, including both oral and injection forms, the market size was valued at USD 3.9 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow further. The market is driven by the rising prevalence of thyroid disorders and growing awareness about the links between thyroid health and women's fertility[4].
Segmentation and Applications
The levothyroxine sodium market is segmented by type (oral and injection) and by application (hospitals, pharmacies, and others). The oral segment, which includes Tirosint, dominates the market due to its widespread use in treating hypothyroidism and other thyroid-related conditions[4].
Financial Trajectory and Cost Savings
For patients, the financial trajectory of using Tirosint can be managed through various cost-saving programs. The Tirosint Copay Savings Card allows patients with commercial insurance to pay as little as $25 for a month’s supply or $60 for a 90-day supply. The Tirosint Direct Program offers additional savings through mail-order pharmacies, providing the lowest cash price available and convenient home delivery[2].
Cost Savings Programs
- Tirosint Copay Savings Card: Offers significant savings for patients with commercial insurance, making the medication more affordable.
- Tirosint Direct Program: Provides the lowest cash price available and the convenience of home delivery, saving both money and time[2].
Market Opportunities and Challenges
Opportunities
- Growing Market: The increasing prevalence of thyroid disorders and the expanding awareness of thyroid health create a growing market for Tirosint.
- Innovative Formulation: The liquid form of Tirosint offers advantages over traditional tablets, making it an attractive option for patients with specific needs[1].
Challenges
- Competition: The levothyroxine market is highly competitive, with multiple brands and generic options available.
- Regulatory Environment: Changes in regulatory policies and patent expirations can impact the market dynamics and profitability of branded drugs like Tirosint[5].
Expert Insights
According to Arturo Licenziati, President of IBSA SA, the FDA approval of Tirosint-SOL opens up very interesting opportunities for the company, particularly in the U.S. market. He highlights the success of clinical trials in Italy, which have been published in numerous international scientific journals, demonstrating the efficacy and advantages of the liquid formulation[1].
Leonard Wartofsky, MD, MACP, Past President of the American Thyroid Association, emphasizes the widespread nature of hypothyroidism in the U.S. and the importance of precise dosing and absorption of levothyroxine. He notes that the synthetic form of levothyroxine, available since 1950, has undergone a significant innovation with the development of the liquid form[1].
Key Takeaways
- Market Growth: The global levothyroxine sodium market is expected to grow, driven by increasing prevalence of thyroid disorders.
- Innovative Formulation: Tirosint-SOL offers clinical advantages over traditional tablet forms.
- Cost Savings: Various programs are available to make Tirosint more affordable for patients.
- Market Opportunities: Growing awareness and innovative formulations present opportunities for market expansion.
- Challenges: Competition and regulatory changes are key challenges in the market.
FAQs
What is Tirosint used for?
Tirosint is used to treat hypothyroidism and for TSH suppression in the management of certain thyroid cancers.
How does the liquid form of Tirosint differ from traditional tablets?
The liquid form of Tirosint overcomes some limitations of tablets, such as interference from certain foods and medications, and does not require waiting an hour before eating breakfast.
What cost-saving programs are available for Tirosint?
Patients can use the Tirosint Copay Savings Card or the Tirosint Direct Program to save on their prescriptions.
What is the projected market size for the levothyroxine sodium market by 2028?
The global levothyroxine sodium tablet market is expected to reach USD 4,367.6 million by 2028.
Are patients on government healthcare programs eligible for the Tirosint Copay Savings Card?
No, patients participating in government healthcare programs (Medicare, Medicaid, VA/DOD) are not eligible to use the Tirosint copay savings program.
Sources
- The FDA Has Approved Tirosint-SOL, Levothyroxine In Liquid Solution For The American Market, IBSA Patent. Biospace.
- Ways to save - Tirosint® Capsules. Tirosint.
- Levothyroxine Sodium Tablet Market Size | Global Report -2031. Business Research Insights.
- Levothyroxine Sodium Market Size, Share Trends Report 2032. Market Research Future.
- National Medicaid Fee-For-Service Drug Utilization Review. Medicaid.gov.