Is Rozebalamin (methylcobalamin) covered by health insurance?

Rozebalamin (methylcobalamin) is a drug used to treat amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by slowing the progression of the disease primarily through neuroprotection. The drug was approved for production and marketing in Japan in 2024 and is produced by Eisai Co., Ltd. The mechanism of action of methylcobalamin has not been fully elucidated, but research shows that it may help delay functional deterioration in ALS patients by promoting nerve repair and protecting neurons. The dosage of this drug is usually 50 mg per day, intramuscular injection, and regular observation and follow-up is required during treatment.

Currently, Rozebalamin (methylcobalamin) has not yet been launched in China, so domestic patients cannot directly purchase this drug through formal channels. Due to the lack of domestic versions, patients usually need to purchase the drug through overseas channels, especially original drugs from Japan. The price of methylcobalamin in Japan is about more than 7,000 yuan per box. Due to the lack of domestically produced or imported generic drugs, purchase options are limited and the prices are relatively expensive.

Regarding whether to be included in medical insurance, methylcobalamin is currently not included in China’s medical insurance catalog. Since the drug has not yet been marketed in the country, medical insurance reimbursement is not covered. However, with the gradual promotion of drugs in the country, corresponding medical insurance policies may be introduced in the future, and patients can obtain the latest medical insurance information and policies through hospitals or related channels. For patients in urgent need of treatment, the drug will still need to be purchased overseas.

In general, the use of Rozebalamin (methylcobalamin) in China faces certain challenges. Patients need to purchase it through overseas channels, and the price is relatively high. Currently, the drug is not covered by medical insurance, so patients need to consider the economic burden and accessibility of the drug when choosing a treatment option.

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References:

[1]https://pins.japic.or.jp/pdf/newPINS/00071540.pdf

[2]https://www.eisai.com/news/2024/news202487.html