The role and price of the generic version of Resmetirom

Resmetirom - Rezdiffra is the world's first oral drug approved for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with moderate to severe liver fibrosis. Due to the high price and limited supply of the original drug, generic versions have appeared on the market, such as the Lao ASEAN version and the Lao Lucius version. Both versions are based on the same active ingredient Resmetirom, have the same chemical structure as the original drug, and have basically the same mechanism of action and indications.

The core function of the generic version of Resmetirol is to activate thyroid hormone receptorβ (THR-β) in the liver, improve liver lipid metabolism, reduce intrahepatic fat accumulation, and inhibit the process of inflammation and fibrosis. Its therapeutic goal is to reverse the liver inflammation in NASH patients and delay or even improve liver fibrosis. In clinical use, the generic version also needs to be coordinated with dietary adjustments and regular exercise to achieve the desired effect.

The effectiveness and safety of the generic version have received good feedback in many overseas markets. Due to the use of the same active ingredients and dosage specifications as the original drug, patients showed similar trends in metabolic improvement and liver function indicators. The only differences are mainly reflected in subtle aspects such as production processes, sources of excipients, and drug dissolution, and these factors usually do not significantly affect the overall efficacy.

In terms of price, the price of the generic version of rismetirol is significantly lower than that of the original drug. At present, the latest market price of the Lao ASEAN version and the Lucius version is about 1,500 to 2,000 yuan (may fluctuate slightly due to exchange rates and channels). Compared with the original drug in the United States, the cost can be saved by more than 70%. For NASH patients undergoing long-term treatment, this undoubtedly reduces the economic burden and improves the accessibility of drugs.

It is worth noting that although generic drugs are equivalent in ingredients, patients should still choose to purchase drugs through formal channels and avoid products from non-certified sources. During the use of the drug, maintain the same monitoring frequency as the original drug, including liver function, lipid profile, and thyroid hormone levels, to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective.

Reference materials:https://www.drugs.com/monograph/resmetirom.html