AstraZeneca offering Arimidex for just $40 a month in USA

Anglo-Swedish drug major AstraZeneca (LSE: AZN) has launched what it says is its first-ever direct-to-patient program offering those with a valid prescription for its breast cancer drug Arimidex (anastrozole), which has lost patent exclusivity, the opportunity to have the brand Arimidex delivered directly to their home by Express Scripts, a specialty pharmacy services provider in the USA, for $40 per month, including shipping.

Copy versions of the drug are made by a number of generic manufacturers, including but not limited to, Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Roxane Laboratories and Teva Pharmaceuticals. AstraZeneca’s branded Arimidex saw its full year sales plunge 91% to $42 million for full year 2011, and generate revenues of just $5 million in the fourth-quarter of last year.

“ARIMIDEX Direct marks a first for AstraZeneca,” said Steve Davis, executive director, Foundation Brands, AstraZeneca, adding: “We believe it is also the first time eligible patients have a nationwide direct-to-patient option. The program offers the brand Arimidex at the low cost of $40 per month via home delivery,” Mr Davis continued. “It is an important new way for AstraZeneca to help meet US customer needs.”