Letter to the Editor of the Las Vegas Sun
By Kim Amato, Las Vegas
Tuesday, March 17, 2020 | 2 a.m.
No one should have to choose between paying for prescriptions or rent and groceries. But according to AARP, 31% of Nevadans have stopped taking medication due to cost.
I have high cholesterol and was prescribed Livalo after trying other statins that caused joint and muscle pain. I got immediate relief from discomfort, but the drug costs $253 a month. I have a PPO insurance plan through the state with a high deductible. I used a coupon that lowered the cost a bit but not for long.
I was diagnosed in 2010 with breast cancer. After undergoing a lumpectomy, my oncologist prescribed Aromasin as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of cancer recurring. The cost was $260 a month. The side effects included moderate hair loss, anxiety and nausea. After taking the drug for the recommended five years, my oncologist revealed that it had been unnecessary for me to take the drug. Aside from the misery of the side effects, I was out of pocket $15,600.
My family is one of millions who struggles to cover the cost of medications. I ask my elected officials to look into why prescription prices are so high and how we can lower them so people can survive without going broke.