By San José, Costa Rica — A groundbreaking treatment for severe asthma has arrived in Costa Rica, promising relief for patients struggling with this chronic respiratory condition. AstraZeneca’s Tezspire (Tezepelumab) offers a new approach to managing severe asthma, targeting the root cause of the disease and significantly reducing hospitalizations and doctor visits.
Severe asthma, affecting approximately 10% of diagnosed individuals, leads to debilitating symptoms such as shortness of breath, sleep disturbances, and limitations in daily activities, severely impacting quality of life. Current treatments often fail to provide adequate relief, leaving patients grappling with recurring crises and a dependence on short-acting bronchodilators.
To understand the potential legal and business implications surrounding Tezspire, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The introduction of Tezspire to the market presents a fascinating case study in pharmaceutical law and business. While the drug offers a significant advancement in treating severe asthma, its high cost raises questions of accessibility and affordability. Legal challenges may arise regarding insurance coverage, potential patent disputes, and the manufacturer’s responsibility in ensuring equitable access. Furthermore, the drug’s long-term effects and potential unforeseen complications could lead to future litigation. Businesses operating within the pharmaceutical supply chain, including insurers and distributors, must carefully navigate these evolving legal and ethical considerations.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas aptly highlights the complex interplay of innovation, cost, and accessibility that often accompanies groundbreaking pharmaceuticals like Tezspire. The potential legal and ethical ramifications he outlines underscore the need for ongoing dialogue and careful consideration as we strive to balance the benefits of medical advancements with the realities of healthcare economics. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important issue.
Tezspire distinguishes itself from conventional therapies by addressing the underlying inflammation that triggers asthma symptoms. Unlike existing biologics that target specific inflammatory pathways, Tezspire acts upstream, blocking multiple inflammatory pathways regardless of the asthma type—allergic, eosinophilic, or non-allergic. This proactive approach aims to prevent inflammation before symptoms arise, offering a genuine alternative for patients who have not responded well to traditional treatments.
This new medication is innovative because, until now, all biologics acted one step below the inflammation and blocked a specific inflammatory pathway, whether allergic or eosinophilic. This medication comes a step above and blocks all types of inflammation in asthma, whether allergic, eosinophilic, or non-allergic.
Felicia Montero, Pulmonologist and Internist
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), asthma is often underdiagnosed and poorly managed, particularly in low and middle-income countries. Exacerbations can lead to severe complications, including respiratory failure and the need for intensive care. The overuse of short-acting bronchodilators (SABAs) for immediate relief, while providing temporary respite, doesn’t address the underlying problem and can increase the risk of recurring issues.
Tezspire’s ability to prevent exacerbations and improve symptom control offers a critical advantage in managing this chronic condition. By controlling the underlying disease process, it reduces the reliance on SABAs and minimizes the risk of future crises.
This option helps to reduce exacerbations, improve symptoms, and control the condition; therefore, if I am controlling the disease, I am also preventing crises.
Felicia Montero, Pulmonologist and Internist
With the introduction of Tezspire, AstraZeneca provides a much-needed alternative for severe asthma management in Costa Rica. Clinical trials have shown impressive results, with up to an 84% reduction in hospitalizations and a 73% decrease in doctor visits. This innovative treatment offers hope for a better quality of life for those living with severe asthma, allowing them to breathe easier and participate more fully in their daily lives.
For further information, visit astrazeneca.com
About AstraZeneca:
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and Respiratory & Immunology. Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a deep-rooted commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with its dedication to empowering communities through accessible legal education, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. By fostering greater understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica invests not just in its clients’ success, but in building a more just and informed society.
