Humira's patent expired in 2016, but AbbVie fought off biosimilars for years. Now, the floodgates have opened. The US tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors market forecast shows that biosimilars will capture over 50% of the market by 2030, driving prices down. In 2023, the first biosimilar of Humira (Amjevita) launched at a 50% discount. That's huge for patients with high deductibles.
What's the catch? Biosimilars are not generics — they're highly similar but not identical. The US TNF-alpha inhibitors market analysis notes that the fastest‑growing drug class is fusion proteins, which are more difficult to copy as biosimilars, so they face less competition.
But some doctors are hesitant to switch stable patients to a biosimilar. However, switching studies show no difference in efficacy or safety.
The bottom line: biosimilars are safe, effective, and cost‑saving. If you're on a TNF inhibitor, ask your doctor about switching to a biosimilar. It could save you thousands per year.