Optum Rx will add more biosimilar competitors of expensive biologic Humira beginning July 1.
In a June 23 news release, the pharmaceutical benefit manager said it will add Hyrimoz and adalimumab-adaz, manufactured by Sandoz, and Cyltezo, manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim, to its formulary.
"As an industry leader driving competition and biosimilar access, we are bringing unprecedented choice and value in this highly utilized but historically very expensive drug class," Optum Rx CEO Heather Cianfrocco said in the news release.
In November 2022, Ms. Cianfrocco said the company will keep Humira in its formulary in addition to its biosimilar competitors.
Optum Rx added Amjevita, manufactured by Amgen, to its formulary earlier this year.
Humira, which treats rheumatoid arthritis and several other conditions, costs $77,000 a year, according to a 2021 report from the House of Representatives' Committee on Oversight and Reform.
"PBMs have a responsibility to leverage competition to lower cost and create choice. Access to new biosimilars and their available list price options provides physicians, clients and patients with affordable treatment options," Ms. Cianfrocco said.