Cigna to Drop Humira from Preferred Reimbursement Lists in 2025

Cigna announced it will remove AbbVie’s Humira from some of its preferred drug lists for reimbursement in 2025, recommending cheaper biosimilar versions instead. This decision follows similar actions by other major pharmacy benefit managers. With multiple biosimilars launched, AbbVie is expected to retain a lower market share next year.

Cigna announced on Monday its decision to exclude AbbVie's blockbuster rheumatoid arthritis medication, Humira, from select preferred reimbursement drug lists by 2025, recommending more affordable biosimilar alternatives.

The company said its pharmacy benefits management unit, Express Scripts, will instead cover biosimilars like Boehringer Ingelheim's Cyltezo, Teva and Alvotech's Simlandi, and an unbranded version of Sandoz's Hyrimoz. This mirrors a move by CVS Health's Caremark unit in April, which resulted in a significant switch to biosimilars among patients.

Pharmacy benefit managers, which negotiate drug prices, have faced scrutiny this year for their perceived role in maintaining high drug costs. Despite the launch of 10 Humira biosimilars since January 2023, AbbVie retained its market position by securing favorable positions on insurance lists. As Cigna and other PBMs shift focus, AbbVie anticipates a reduced market share in 2024.

(With inputs from agencies.)