Prices of various versions of Imfinzi - Kanghule

Durvalumab is a PD-L1 inhibitor that helps the human immune system identify and attack cancer cells by blocking the interaction between tumor cells and immune cells. It is currently mainly used to treat malignant tumors such as non-small cell lung cancer and small cell lung cancer, and plays an important role in the consolidation treatment of stage III unresectable lung cancer.

Prices of various versions of Imfinzi

Understanding the price differences of different versions can help patients formulate a reasonable treatment plan.

Price of each version

The generic drug durvalumab is produced by Abraxis BioScience in the United States. It is packaged in a single box and costs approximately US$664. Imrvalumab was launched in China in December 2019. It is not yet included in the national medical insurance directory, and patients need to pay the full amount out of their own pocket.

Why original drugs are expensive

The cost of research and development of new drugs is the core factor. The average investment for monoclonal antibody drugs from target screening to clinical trials exceeds US$1 billion. The production process is complex, and the costs of mammalian cell culture technology and protein purification account for more than 70% of the total cost. During the patent protection period, companies need to recover R&D investment, which also affects pricing strategies.

After purchasing durvalumab, patients need to check whether the packaging is complete and whether the drug is genuine to avoid buying counterfeit and inferior drugs.

Precautions for using Imfinzi

Standard use can reduce risks as much as possible. Patients and their families should pay special attention to the following.

Management of Special Populations

Pregnant women using durvalumab may cause fetal abnormalities. Strict contraception is required during treatment and within 3 months after stopping the drug. Breastfeeding women should suspend breastfeeding. Elderly patients do not need to adjust the dose, but they need to strengthen monitoring of liver and kidney function. The safety of the drug in children has not yet been determined, and the risks need to be assessed by a specialist. Patients with mild to moderate hepatic and renal insufficiency can directly use conventional doses.

Adverse Reaction Response

When patients with lung cancer are treated with durvalumab, adverse reactions such as anemia (20%-35%), fatigue (25%-40%), and cough (15%-25%) are common. Immune pneumonia may also occur, manifesting as persistent fever or dyspnea, and immediate medical attention is required.

During the treatment period, patients are recommended to have blood routine tests weekly and liver and kidney function rechecked monthly. Patients with rash can use topical glucocorticoid ointment, and patients with diarrhea more than 3 times a day need to supplement electrolytes.

Daily treatment for lung cancer patients

Scientific lifestyle management can enhance treatment effects and improve the quality of life.

Nutritional support strategy

Patients’ daily protein intake should reach 1.2-1.5g/kg, with priority given to high-quality proteins such as eggs and fish. When white blood cells decrease, blood-enhancing foods such as red dates and wolfberries can be added. It is recommended for patients with dysphagia to use high-energy nutritional powder and take it in small amounts in 5-6 times. Avoid raw or cold food, and stay seated for 30 minutes after meals to prevent reflux.

Functional rehabilitation training

After surgery, patients need to perform breathing training and practice abdominal breathing three times a day for 10 minutes each time. Those with physical strength can do low-intensity aerobic exercise, such as walking for 30 minutes or Tai Chi for 20 minutes every day. Patients with upper limb lymphedema should wear a pressure sleeve and elevate the affected limb 15 degrees before going to bed. People who are bedridden for a long time need to turn over every 2 hours to prevent pressure sores.

After treatment, chest contrast-enhanced CT, tumor markers, such as CEA, CYFRA21-1, and lung function need to be reviewed regularly. Follow-up visits will be conducted every 3 months in the first 2 years, and once every six months in 3-5 years. Please consult your doctor for the specific time.