The course of action following a TED diagnosis will depend on the severity of the symptoms. Some physicians may decide to employ a combination of different approaches. Some of the typical approaches to treating TED are:
Observation
In mild cases of TED, the care provider may recommend observation without any specific treatment. Symptoms sometimes improve on their own. However, you should only forego treatment if a physician recommends this approach.
Medication
Certain medications can help reduce inflammation, decrease swelling, and relieve pain and discomfort. Prescription medication can also manage thyroid hormone levels.
Medications may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and beta blockers. The active ingredient in Tepezza is teprotumumab. This compound is a monoclonal antibody that targets the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), which is thought to cause the inflammation and swelling that occur in TED patients.
Eye Drops
Lubricating eye drops can help relieve dry eyes. This treatment can also prevent corneal damage.
Surgical Intervention
Surgery may be required in cases with significant eye bulging or double vision, especially if the patient’s condition does not respond to other types of treatment.
Surgical intervention may involve removing some of the bone around the eye to allow it to return to its natural position. Surgeries to reposition the muscles that control eye movement are also a possibility.
Radiation Therapy
Although this approach is rare, doctors may use radiation therapy to reduce inflammation in the tissues near the eye.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Making lifestyle changes can sometimes help improve the symptoms of TED. These lifestyle changes may include:
- Decreasing stress
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking or excessive drinking
Not all TED patients require treatment. The approach to treatment should be specific to the patient based on their circumstances.
The severity of symptoms and underlying medical conditions will determine the appropriate treatment. TED patients should consult with an experienced healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate course of action.
However, if you have experienced significant Tepezza costs as a result of your TED treatment, you may have legal recourse. Many victims are eligible for financial compensation in the wake of financial and personal losses caused by another party’s negligence.
How Much Does Tepezza Cost?
Tepezza is administered to patients intravenously. Usually, medical providers dispense the drug in a sequence of eight infusions over a 24-week period.
The drug is intended to improve eye bulging, eye pain, and double vision in patients with active TED. This medication is not appropriate for all patients with TED and should be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional experienced in the management of the condition.
Typically, a single 500 mg injection of Tepezza costs around $16,300. The patient’s health insurance coverage will influence the out-of-pocket cost of the drug.