How much does capmatinib cost per bottle in 2024?

Capmatinib (Capmatinib) is used to treat non-small cell lung cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic) or cannot be removed with surgery. Capmatinib is only used if a patient's cancer has a specific genetic marker (an abnormal "MET" gene), which doctors test for in the patient. Capmatinib may also be used for purposes not listed in this Medication Guide.

MET protein belongs to the receptor tyrosine kinase family and is involved in cell growth. In NSCLC patients with "METex14 skipping," an abnormal form of the MET protein is produced, causing the cancer cells to divide and grow in an uncontrolled manner. The active ingredient in capmatinib is a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor that attaches to the abnormal MET protein in cancer cells. This blocks the action of MET, helping to slow the growth and spread of cancer.

The most common side effects of capmatinib are peripheral edema (especially swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet), nausea (feeling unwell), fatigue, increased creatinine levels in the blood (a sign of kidney problems), vomiting, difficulty breathing, decreased appetite, and back pain.

The price and medical insurance details of the original drug capmatinib, which has just been approved for marketing in China, have not yet been announced. In Hong Kong, the price of the original capmatinib200 mg 60 strength drug exceeds RMB 30,000. Overseas, the price of the European version of the original drug in 200 mg and 120 doses per box is as high as more than 50,000 yuan. Although the price will change due to exchange rate fluctuations, it is obviously expensive. In addition, there are also generic capmatinib drugs in overseas markets that are more affordable and have roughly the same ingredients as the original drug. For example, a drug of 200mg*56 tablets produced by a pharmaceutical factory in Laos costs only about 3,000 yuan, although the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates.