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RIDGEFIELD, Conn., and INDIANAPOLIS — Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Eli Lilly and Co.’s type 2 diabetes medication Tradjenta has shipped to U.S. pharmacies.
The companies said Wednesday that Tradjenta (linagliptin) tablets are now available by prescription nationwide at such chain drug retailers as Walgreens, CVS and Rite Aid as well as at independent pharmacies.
The Food and Drug Administration approved Tradjenta early last month as a prescription medication used with diet and exercise to lower blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes. According to Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly, Tradjenta belongs to a class of prescription drugs called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors and is the first member of its class to be approved at one dosage strength (5 mg once daily).
"The rapid availability of Tradjenta for adults with type 2 diabetes following FDA approval is a testament to Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly’s joint commitment to improving patient care," stated Wa’el Hashad, vice president of cardiovascular and metabolic disorders at Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals. "The health of patients is our first priority, and we work diligently to ensure our medications are accessible for patients. With just one dose to remember for all patients, Tradjenta is an important new treatment option that could help the millions of Americans living with type 2 diabetes."
Boehringer Ingelheim and Lilly said they are in discussions with various insurance companies about formulary coverage and are seeking for Tradjenta to be reimbursed at a co-pay level similar to other preferred branded products. The wholesale acquisition price for the drug is $6.77 per tablet. A savings card program for Tradjenta is available for patients who qualify, the companies added.
