Why are sirolimus tablets so expensive?

Sirolimus (sirolimus) has received increasing attention as an immunosuppressant in kidney and other solid organ transplantation. Sirolimus is the first new drug with a new mechanism of action to be marketed. Sirolimus, like tacrolimus, binds to members of the FK-binding protein (FKBP) family. The SRL/FKBP complex binds the protein kinase mTOR.

The binding of sirolimus to mTOR blocks the activation of signal transduction pathways, causing cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase. It is now known that mTOR is a major regulator of cell growth and proliferation. The immunosuppressive properties of sirolimus are primarily due to blocking interleukin-2 (IL-2)-induced T cell proliferation. Its major advantage over currently selected immunosuppressants is the ability to protect renal function and pathology while producing excellent rejection-free graft survival.

SirolimusThe original drug has been launched in China and has entered the scope of Class B medical insurance. SpecificationsThe price of each box of 1mg*10 tablets is about 400 yuan. Domestic drugs are only available for patients with anti-rejection reactions in organ transplantation. Patients who do not meet the conditions may not be able to purchase this drug. The reimbursement ratios are different in different regions, and the prices after reimbursement are also different. The original sirolimus drug has also been launched overseas. The price of the Turkish version of Specifications1mg*100 tablets per box is around RMB 2,000 (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates). The ingredients of the original drugs marketed in China are basically the same as those of foreign original drugs. Currently, there are no generic sirolimus drugs produced in other countries.