In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach in cancer treatment, offering renewed hope for patients facing difficult-to-treat cancers. One such immunotherapy drug is Atezolizumab, marketed under the brand name Tecentriq. This drug has shown promising results in treating a variety of cancers, including lung cancer, bladder cancer, and specific forms of breast cancer. However, like many innovative treatments, the cost can be a concern, particularly in India. In this post, we will explore the atezolizumab injection price, its uses, and what patients can expect when considering Tecentriq as part of their cancer treatment plan.

Atezolizumab – Uses & Introduction

Atezolizumab is a cancer immunotherapy drug classified as a PD-L1 inhibitor. It enhances the immune system’s ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells. In normal conditions, cancer cells evade the immune system by producing a protein called PD-L1, which essentially “turns off” the body’s immune response against them. Atezolizumab blocks this PD-L1 protein, allowing the immune system to detect and attack cancer cells more effectively.

Atezolizumab injection is used to treat various cancers, including:

• Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
• Small cell lung cancer (SCLC)
• Urothelial carcinoma (bladder cancer)
• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC)
• Hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer)

It is often prescribed for advanced-stage cancers or when the cancer has metastasized (spread to other parts of the body). Atezolizumab is typically administered alongside chemotherapy or other cancer treatments, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.

How Does Atezolizumab Work? The Mechanism of Action

Understanding how Atezolizumab works can provide patients with a clearer perspective on its role in cancer treatment. Under normal circumstances, the immune system attacks anything recognized as harmful, including cancer cells. However, tumors can avoid immune detection by producing PD-L1, which effectively shuts down the immune response.

Atezolizumab interrupts this process by binding to PD-L1 and preventing it from interacting with the PD-1 receptor on immune cells. This restores the immune system’s ability to recognize and fight cancer cells, allowing for a more targeted and effective treatment. As a result, many patients experience improved outcomes, particularly in advanced cancers.

Tecentriq 1200mg Injection Price in India

Like most immunotherapy drugs, the cost of Atezolizumab is significant, and it’s important to consider the Tecentriq 1200mg injection price when planning treatment. In India, the price typically ranges from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh per dose, depending on the healthcare provider, location, and any applicable discounts or assistance programs.

The high cost reflects the advanced nature of the drug’s formulation and the research behind its development. For many patients, Atezolizumab requires multiple doses over a period of months, depending on the cancer type and stage, which can substantially increase the total treatment cost.

Atezolizumab Injection Price: What Influences the Cost?

Several factors contribute to the atezolizumab injection price in India:

1. Manufacturer: Tecentriq is produced by Roche, a global pharmaceutical leader, and the cost reflects the investment in research, clinical trials, and obtaining regulatory approvals.
2. Healthcare Facility: The cost can vary depending on whether treatment is administered in private hospitals, public healthcare facilities, or specialized cancer clinics.
3. Insurance Coverage: Patients with comprehensive insurance may have some of the costs covered, though policies can differ widely, so it’s important to confirm coverage specifics.
4. Number of Doses: Treatment duration and the number of doses required depend on the type of cancer and its progression, directly impacting overall costs.

Although the atezolizumab injection price can be high, it offers life-extending benefits for many cancer patients, making the investment in treatment worthwhile for eligible individuals.

 Financial Assistance and Support Options

Given the high Tecentriq 1200mg injection price, financial assistance programs are available to help patients manage treatment costs. These include:

1. Insurance: Health insurance providers may offer partial or full coverage for immunotherapy treatments like Atezolizumab. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
2. Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs: Roche offers patient support programs that can reduce the out-of-pocket costs for Tecentriq. For those in need of financial aid, Medlama can assist in connecting patients with such programs to obtain the best possible price for Atezolizumab.
3. Government Health Schemes: Programs like Ayushman Bharat offer affordable cancer treatment for eligible patients in India, providing further financial support.
4. Non-Profit Organizations: Organizations like the Indian Cancer Society and CanSupport provide financial assistance to cancer patients who cannot afford treatment costs.

Exploring these options can significantly ease the financial burden of cancer treatment.

What to Expect During Atezolizumab Treatment

Atezolizumab is administered as an IV infusion, typically every two to four weeks, depending on the patient’s specific treatment plan. Each session lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.

Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, and reduced appetite. Some patients may also experience immune-related side effects, such as inflammation in organs like the lungs, liver, or intestines. Close monitoring by a healthcare team is essential to manage these side effects and ensure treatment efficacy.

Conclusion: Balancing Cost and Treatment Effectiveness

Atezolizumab, sold under the brand name Tecentriq, represents a breakthrough in cancer treatment, offering new hope for patients with advanced or difficult-to-treat cancers. However, the atezolizumab injection price in India, ranging between ₹2.5 lakh and ₹3.5 lakh per dose, can be a significant financial concern. 

For those exploring this treatment, it’s essential to explore available financial assistance programs. Consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacy counselor at Medlama to find the best possible offers and support options, ensuring you receive the treatment without an overwhelming financial burden.

Source URL- https://medlama.com/product/tecentriq/

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