Vivus launches new Qsymia discount program

Vivus Inc. (NASDAQ:VVUS) launched a discount program for obesity drug Qsymia phentermine/topiramate under which patients can receive a one-time, 30-day supply of the 7.5 mg/46 mg dose of Qsymia for no more than $75. According to Qsymia's label, patients should start at the lowest of the drug's four doses -- 3.75 mg/23 mg -- for 14 days and escalate to the next highest dose -- 7.5 mg/46 mg -- for 12 weeks. Vivus said the discount program provides up to $85 in savings off Qsymia's full retail price of $120-$183.90 per month, depending on dose. Patients with prescriptions written or filled on or after March 1 are eligible. Vivus already provides a free, one-time trial of a 14-day supply of the starting dose of Qsymia under a different discount program.

Vivus launched the fixed-dose combination of phentermine and topiramate in the U.S. last September for adults with a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or greater, or adults with a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or greater who have one or more weight-related condition. Last month, Vivus recorded $2 million in 4Q12 net Qsymia revenue, falling short of the Street's $3.1 million estimate. The company has said that out-of-pocket costs for the drug have contributed to its slow uptake (see BioCentury, Feb. 26). ...