How many boxes of durvalumab can be stocked at a time? How much does it cost?

Durvalumab is a PD-L1 inhibitor that is suitable for the treatment of a variety of solid tumors, including non-small cell lung cancer, small cell lung cancer, biliary tract cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and endometrial cancer. When used as a single agent or in combination with chemotherapy and other immunotherapy drugs, it can significantly extend the progression-free survival and overall survival of patients. This article will introduce the precautions for the use of this drug in detail from three aspects: purchase quantity limit, price information and medication for special groups, to help patients and their families better understand the medication specifications.

How many boxes of durvalumab can be stocked at a time

is a specially managed anti-tumor drug. Patients cannot hoard it at will and must strictly follow hospital prescription regulations. The supply policies of different regions and hospitals may vary.

Hospital Prescription Restrictions

Most hospitals in China implement strict control over durvalumab, and usually no more than 1-2 boxes are prescribed at a time. Some hospitals require patients to re-evaluate before each cycle of medication to avoid drug hoarding leading to waste or improper storage.

Cold chain storage requirements

This drug needs to be refrigerated and stored at 2-8°C, and home storage conditions are difficult to meet the requirements for a long time. Hospital pharmacies often dispense medications as needed, reducing the risk of patients keeping their own.

Patients should follow the doctor’s instructions and receive the medicine according to the course of treatment to avoid improper storage that affects the efficacy of the medicine or increases the financial burden.

How much does durvalumab cost?

As an imported original drug, durvalumab is relatively expensive and has not yet been included in the national medical insurance. Patients need to purchase it at their own expense.

International market price

The original drug is produced by Abraxis BioScience in the United States. The price of a single box of 500mg/10mL is approximately US$664. Pricing in different countries and regions may fluctuate due to tariffs and distribution costs.

Domestic hospital selling prices

The specific prices of domestic hospitals vary slightly depending on hospital procurement channels and regional policies. Some charitable aid projects can provide partial fee reductions for patients with financial difficulties.

Because this drug requires long-term use, patients should make financial plans in advance and consult their attending physician for alternative treatment options or assistance plans.

Usage of durvalumab in special groups

There are strict restrictions on the use of this drug in different groups. Pregnancy, lactation, children and the elderly need to be carefully evaluated.

Pregnant women

Irvalumab is contraindicated because it may affect fetal development and lead to congenital defects or miscarriage. Women of childbearing age must take reliable contraceptive measures while taking the drug.

Lactating women

It is recommended to stop breastfeeding during treatment and within 3 months after the last dose to avoid the drug affecting the baby through milk.

Children and the elderly

The medication data for children under 18 years old is limited and needs to be strictly evaluated by specialists. Elderly patients may need to adjust the dosage due to decreased liver and kidney function and require individualized medication plans.

Special groups should fully communicate with their doctors before using this drug to weigh the benefits and risks to ensure that the treatment is effective.