AstraZeneca capping COPD, asthma medications at $35 a month

Many Americans will see a reduction in out-of-pocket costs for several medicines that treat asthma and COPD.

Drugmaker AstraZeneca said it intends to cap out-of-pocket prices of four medicines used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to $35 per month for many patients.

Starting June 1, the drugmaker said Airsupra, Bevespi, Breztri and Symbicort will cost most patients no more than $35 a month out of pocket. The company noted that there are some restrictions but did not stipulate what those restrictions are. 

AstraZeneca added that the new price caps apply to those who are underinsured or don't have health insurance. 

“AstraZeneca’s expanded savings programs build on our longstanding commitment to addressing barriers to access and affordability for patients living with respiratory diseases to ultimately help patients lead healthier lives," said Pascal Soriot, AstraZeneca CEO. "We remain dedicated to addressing the need for affordability of our medicines, but the system is complex and we cannot do it alone. It is critical that Congress bring together key stakeholders to help reform the healthcare system so patients can afford the medicines they need, not just today, but for the future.”

AstraZeneca's announcement comes two weeks after competitor Boehringer Ingelheim said it would institute a $35 per month cap on out-of-pocket costs for its portfolio of inhalers.