Biosimilars Forum Applauds Boehringer Ingelheim for Launch of Cyltezo®

Juliana M. Reed, executive director the Biosimilars Forum, released the following statement applauding Boehringer Ingelheim for launching Cyltezo® (adalimumab-adbm) in the U.S. This launch is part of consequential wave of Humira® (adalimumab) biosimilars launching in the U.S. this year. These therapies and their access to patients will determine the future success of the biosimilars market in the U.S. and could save the healthcare system more billions of dollars per year, if – and only if – patients can access these medications.

“This is a watershed moment for biosimilars in the United States. Boehringer Ingelheim’s launch of Cyltezo® marks the introduction of another Humira® (adalimumab) biosimilar with the opportunity to create a more competitive market, which can drastically reduce prescription drug costs.

“However, the cost-savings potential of biosimilars can only be realized if they are fully available and accessible by the patients that need them. These lower-cost therapies must have access to formularies, allowing the biosimilars market to work as intended and lower prescription drug costs for millions of Americans.

“Humira® is the most expensive prescription drug in the United States and can cost patients upwards of $84,000 per year. It has experienced a 470% price increase since first introduced on the market.

“The Biosimilars Forum calls on the Biden Administration, Congress and federal regulators to meet the moment and ensure Humira® (adalimumab) biosimilars are available to all patients – including Medicare patients. Medicare could have saved an estimated $2.19 billion on Humira® over four years had biosimilar competition been available.

“The biosimilars industry requires the full support of policymakers and stakeholders to give patients lower-cost options they deserve. I look forward to working with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle as more Humira® (adalimumab) biosimilars and introduced and deliver long overdue, lower-cost options for the world’s best-selling drug.”

For more information on the Biosimilars Forum’s work to increase access to lower-cost biosimilars, visit biosimilarsforum.org.