Biologic Medication Costs
Introduction to Humira Costs
- The cost of Humira (adalimumab) is approximately $5,500-$5,800 per month for a standard supply, making it one of the most expensive biologic medications on the market, according to the American College of Physicians, with a moderate strength of evidence 1, 2
Cost Variations and Comparisons
- The retail cost for a standard monthly supply of Humira (typically two 40mg/0.8mL pens) is approximately $5,532, as reported by the Journal of the American Medical Association, with a high strength of evidence 2
- A cost comparison of biologic medications used for similar conditions is as follows:
| Medication | Monthly Cost (approximate) |
|---|---|
| Humira (adalimumab) | $5,532 |
| Stelara (ustekinumab) | $10,770 for 0.5mL |
| Remicade (infliximab) | $750-915 per 100mg vial (multiple vials needed) |
| Entyvio (vedolizumab) | $5,782 per vial |
Future Cost Reductions
- The cost of Humira may eventually decrease due to biosimilar competition, with several biosimilars approved but delayed market entry due to patent disputes, as stated by the American College of Physicians, with a low strength of evidence 1
- The first adalimumab biosimilar (Amjevita) was approved in 2016 but will not enter the US market until 2023 due to patent settlements, according to the American College of Physicians, with a moderate strength of evidence 1