If you are among the millions being prescribed Humira (adalimumab) injections to help manage arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, or other GI conditions, good news is here.
There are now 10 FDA-approved biosimilar medications to Humira that are clinically proven to be equally effective, and could provide substantial cost savings.
Here is a breakdown of these potential alternatives. Be sure to consult with your provider and/or a pharmacist first about whether these biosimilar options are right for you, and with any questions you may have.
What is a Biosimilar?
Essentially, it’s the generic equivalent: Think of Tylenol (name brand) vs. Acetaminophen (generic). The ingredients, its sources, how you take the medication, its effectiveness, and safety are identical. Only the label name and cost are different.
All Biosimilars are FDA approved and must pass through the same clinical studies and standard. Since these are biosimilar medications as compared to prescribed Humira, a prescription from your health care provider is likely required.
What are these 10 FDA-approved Humira Biosimilar alternatives?
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- Abrilada (adalimumab-afzb)
- Amjevita (Adalimumab-atto)
- Cyltezo (Adalimumab-adbm)
- Hadlima (adalimumab-bwwd)
- Hulio (adalimumab-fkjp)
- Hyrimoz (adalimumab-adaz)
- Idacio (adalimumab-aacf)
- Simlandi (adalimumab-ryvk)
- Yuflyma (adalimumab-aaty)
- Yusimry (adalimumab-aqvh)
Benefits of Biosimilars vs. Humira
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- Same Effectiveness: All biosimilar medications work the same way as Humira, with no significant difference in treatment results.
- Same Safety Profile: All biosimilars are required to meet the same FDA standards for safety and effectiveness.
- More Affordable: Biosimilars often are lower cost, which may help reduce out-of-pocket expenses and improve access to the medication. Most insurance plans cover Biosimilar medications to its name brand.
- Convenience: All Biosimilar medications are taken the same way as Humira (via injection). Newer Humira products are citrate-free and come in higher concentrations, so they deliver the same amount of medication in a smaller amount of liquid. This may make injections easier and faster.
Biosimilar Resources
As always, ACN’s Care Coordination team is also available to answer your questions, confirm your eligibility, and connect you with the right provider for your care needs. Call (602) 406-7226, text us at (602) 613-5797 or email members@azcarenetwork.org.
