Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-2025
ISSN
2328-8957
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Language
en-US
Abstract
Background
Neglected tropical diseases primarily affect vulnerable populations in low-resource settings worldwide. In the US, neglected tropical diseases such as Chagas, soil-transmitted helminthiases, and other infections historically impacted immigrants but are increasingly relevant for US residents with climate change. We examined the pricing, prescribing rates, and supply of therapies used to treat neglected tropical diseases in the US and their implications for accessibility and patient care. Methods
A retrospective analysis of prescription rates, wholesale acquisition costs, and shortages was conducted for 11 treatment products from 2019 to 2024, aggregating data from Symphony Metys, First Databank, NAVLIN, Red Book, and the University of Utah Drug Information Service. Results
While prices for most neglected tropical diseases were stable, albendazole prices decreased by 78%, while mebendazole prices rose by 60%. Miltefosine remained expensive at $48,000 per treatment course. There are limited manufacturers of neglected tropical disease treatments in the US, increasing vulnerability to shortages. Conclusions
Addressing pricing irregularities and supply vulnerabilities requires legislative and policy interventions to enhance generic competition, public manufacturing, and strengthen supply chains. Such measures are critical to ensuring affordable and accessible treatment options for neglected tropical diseases in the US.
Recommended Citation
Maple Goh, Kevin Outterson & Aaron S. Kesselheim,
Examining Pricing and Availability for Neglected Tropical Disease Therapies in the US
,
Open Forum Infectious Diseases
(2025).
Available at:
https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1093/ofid/ofaf391
Comments
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