Essential Thrombocythemia treatment with Besremi
At my last appointment with my haematologist 2 weeks ago, he gave me the choice of starting HU or Besremi injections every two weeks. After we discussed the pros/cons I decided to go with the Besremi but had to get approval from my health fund which I received today.
I am away overseas and will see my family doctor when I return to get referrals for ECG, blood tests etc..
I will have to go to the health fund clinic for the first 2 injections under supervision but after that I do it myself. It will be a bit of a pain travelling with the injections because they need to be kept 2-8°C (36-46°F). I am thinking of investing in this: https://4allfamily.com/products/portable-medical-fridge-usb-insulin-medicines (any better ideas welcomed).
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38438627/
I will report back after I start the Besremi.
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I’m just about to start Besremi on 6/9. I have ET-CALR on HU for 5 years. My platelets hover around 750. Im starting on a low dose every 2 weeks. Luckily it only costs me $12/month. I wanted to give Besremi a go as the idea of remission is very appealing. I’m am hoping the side effects will be minimal.
Your hemo/oncologist may need to explain to yr insurance co why you need Besremi vs HU. Your new PV diagnosis should help. Besremi is approved for PV, but not for ET.
If you are enrolled in Part D Medicare, there's a $2,000 cap on out of pocket expenses, but whether that cap will stay in place is anyone's guess.
The drug makers sometimes give you a reduced cost for a short time, but their generosity often expires after a year of freebies.
Please keep us updated. Hard enough to get the news your ET has progressed without having to worry about treatment costs.
This is good to know thank you so much!