• November 8, 2007

Drug company AstraZeneca is rolling out enhancements to a savings program for patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease who are prescribed Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium).

The patient support program, called Purple Plus, now includes instant rebates and new educational tools. Patients will receive regular e-mail and direct mail communications containing acid reflux education, refill reminders, newsletters and cookbooks. Patients have access to comprehensive online resources and tools--including a GERD-friendly meal planner, trigger checker, an online dietitian, fitness planner, and more, which are all accessible through the member's own personal Web page on PurplePill.com.

Refill data shows that patients who participate in the Purple Plus program stay on therapy longer than others.

--Tanya Irwin