Celltrion USA has recently introduced adalimumab-aaty, a biosimilar of HUMIRA® (adalimumab), to the market at a significantly reduced cost. Priced at an 85% discount to the current wholesale acquisition cost (WAC) of HUMIRA, adalimumab-aaty aims to make this important medication more affordable and accessible for patients.
With the rising complexity of medication access in the United States, the availability of biosimilars like adalimumab-aaty brings much-needed competition to the market. This can lead to cost savings for patients, as well as beneficial effects on the overall healthcare system.
Adalimumab-aaty has received approval for the treatment of a broad range of conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa. This makes it a versatile treatment option for many patients in need.
One notable advantage of adalimumab-aaty is its formulation as a high-concentration (100 mg/mL) and citrate-free biosimilar. This formulation provides convenience and ease of administration for patients.
The availability of both the branded version, YUFLYMA®, and the unbranded version of adalimumab-aaty further enhances accessibility for patients. The branded version, launched in July 2023, is available at a 5% discount to the current WAC list price of HUMIRA. This offers additional cost-saving options for patients who require this medication.
It is important for patients to be aware of the safety considerations associated with adalimumab-aaty. Serious infections can occur, and patients should report any signs of infection to their healthcare provider. Other potential risks, such as malignancies, should also be carefully considered before initiating treatment with adalimumab-aaty.
In conclusion, the introduction of adalimumab-aaty as an affordable biosimilar provides patients with more options for the treatment of various conditions. This not only improves access to important medications but also contributes to the overall well-being of patients and the healthcare system.