Biosimilars of blockbuster drug Humira to launch in U.S. with limited discounts

Lower-cost versions of the biologic treatment Humira will become available in July but cost savings for patients will depend on insurance coverage.
Humira is used to treat autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis with a list price of nearly $7,000 per month.
Biosimilars are FDA-approved lower-cost copies of biologic drugs like Humira though not the same as generic drugs.
Drugmakers launching Humira biosimilars are expected to keep prices high to gain leverage with pharmacy benefit managers who determine insurance coverage.
By year's end, nine biosimilar versions of Humira may be on the market in the U.S. though with only small discounts to Humira's list price.