GSK cuts for Advair, Valtrex, Lamictal — March 2024 archive
GSK announced lower US list prices for Advair, Valtrex and Lamictal for 2024. That’s the key update we covered in March 2024. If you take any of these drugs, these price changes could affect what you pay at the pharmacy, so read on for practical next steps.
Advair is a common inhaler for asthma and COPD. Valtrex treats herpes infections. Lamictal is used for epilepsy and bipolar disorder. Lower list prices mean patients with high deductibles, coinsurance, or those paying cash could see the biggest savings.
What this means for your wallet
If your copay or coinsurance is tied to a drug’s list price, a lower list price often cuts your out‑of‑pocket cost. Some people on Medicare Part D may see changes in plan tiers or prior authorization requirements as insurers update formularies. Employers and pharmacy benefit managers might also revise coverage rules, so the real impact varies by plan.
Keep in mind the announcement is a starting point. Price changes announced for 2024 can take weeks or months to appear at the pharmacy counter or in insurer systems. That timing affects when you actually pay less.
Practical steps to take now
Call your pharmacy and ask when the new price will show up for your prescription. If you pay cash, compare the current cash price to the new list price once it’s active. Contact your insurer or HR benefits team to confirm whether copays or coinsurance will change and if your medication’s formulary tier will shift.
Talk to your prescriber if cost is a concern. A doctor or pharmacist can advise if the branded product remains the best choice, or if an effective generic or alternative is available. Ask about manufacturer coupons, copay assistance, and patient programs that might stack with the lower price.
People who usually pay low fixed copays may not notice much difference. Those with high coinsurance, high deductibles, or no insurance often see the most immediate benefit. Keep receipts and notes about your current costs so you can compare once the new pricing rolls out.
We’ll track rollout details, insurer updates, and real patient examples on PowPills.com. Bookmark the site or subscribe for alerts so you’ll know when the new prices hit pharmacies and how they change your actual costs. If you have questions about how this affects your specific plan, reach out and we’ll help point you to the right resources.
GSK Announces Major Price Cuts for Key Drugs Advair, Valtrex, Lamictal in the US
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is set to lower the prices of three significant medications in the US by 2024. This decision impacts Advair, Valtrex, and Lamictal, aiming to enhance drug affordability and comply with the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021's regulatory requirements.
