Is Vismodegib covered by medical insurance?

Vismodegib (Vismodegib) can be used in adults to treat basal cell carcinoma that has spread to other parts of the body (metastasize), or that has come back after surgery, or that cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. Vimodegib may also be used for purposes not listed in this Medication Guide.

The active substance in vismodegib vismodegib disrupts the so-called "Hedgehog signaling pathway," which is normally involved in regulating the early stages of cell development in unborn babies and certain cellular processes in adults. In basal cell carcinoma, the Hedgehog signaling pathway becomes hyperactive and contributes to the growth and spread of cancer cells. Vimodegib attaches to a protein called "SMO", which is involved in activating the Hedgehog signaling pathway. By binding to SMO, vismodegib blocks this pathway, thereby slowing the growth and spread of cancer cells in basal cell carcinoma.

The original drug Vimodegib is not currently on the market in China, so it cannot be included in medical insurance. Domestic patients cannot yet purchase this drug. Overseas, there are two common versions of Vimodegi original medicine, which are very expensive. The Turkish version of the original medicine, with a specification of 150mg*28 pills, may cost more than 10,000 yuan per box. The European version of the original medicine, with a specification of 150mg*28 pills, may cost more than 20,000 yuan per box (the price may fluctuate due to the exchange rate). The ingredients of the two drugs are the same. Currently, there is no generic version of Vimodegib produced or marketed. For more drug information and specific prices, please consult Yaode Medical Consultant.