The first gene therapy in the U.S., approved last month to treat a rare, inherited form of blindness, now has a price tag: $850,000.
That makes the treatment, called Luxturna and made by Spark Therapeutics, the most expensive medicine sold in the U.S., ranked by sticker price.
But Spark CEO Jeff Marrazzo says Luxturna’s ability to restore vision in a small number of people with a defective gene justifies the high cost, particularly because the gene therapy is only injected one time in each eye for a long-term benefit. Many investors expected Spark to charge $1 million or more for Luxturna, so the actual price will be considered a bargain by some.
This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers
Unlock this article — plus daily market-moving biopharma analysis — by subscribing to STAT+.
Already have an account? Log in
Already have an account? Log in
To submit a correction request, please visit our Contact Us page.
STAT encourages you to share your voice. We welcome your commentary, criticism, and expertise on our subscriber-only platform, STAT+ Connect