The marketing campaign for Nexium, otherwise known as the “Purple Pill,” has one of the highest costs in the nation for prescription drugs. In 2008, it had the 2nd highest gross sales of any brand name drug on the market, weighing in at $4.8 billion. This is an interesting fact, because in clinical studies its proven no more effective or safer than a handful of other medicines used to treat heartburn and acid reflux, several of which are over the counter.
So what gives, why does Nexium command such a large price? The answer is their marketing campaign. Astra Zeneca, the maker of Nexium, has been launching an all out attack to suck up market share ever since it hit the market. They’ve done a good job too, with their sales representatives getting many Physicians on board, and a slough of commercials, newspaper, and magazine ads directed toward consumers. But ultimately, the cost of all of the marketing is passed on to you, the consumer!
A few things you can do to combat these high costs follow:
1. If you have insurance, find out what comparable drug is covered by your insurance. Don’t forget to ask for the price. You can obtain this information by calling the number located on the back of your insurance card.
2. Consider a cost saving alternative (priced at equivalent prescription strength doses) like Prilosec-$37.99/mo., Prevacid-$39.99/mo., or Omeprazole (generic Prilosec)-$19.99/mo. These are all available over-the-counter without a prescription.
3. If you’re still not sold on the idea of switching medications and have to stick with your Nexium, consider signing up for The Purple Plus Savings Card on the Nexium website which is listed below.
https://www.purplepill.com/tools/purple-plus-savings-card.aspx
