Xeljanz® use for RA on the rise (but so is its discontinuation rate)

Nearly half of Xeljanz® users discontinue the costly RA drug after one year

February 9, 2017

Prime research shows nearly half of Xeljanz® users discontinue the costly rheumatoid arthritis (RA) drug after one year

The FDA approved Tofacitinib (Xeljanz®) for people with RA who have an inadequate response to methotrexate. The study found that one in 10 members were potentially not following guidelines to use tofacitininb as second line therapy. Additionally, 44 percent of members discontinued the drug by one year. RA is a chronic condition that needs ongoing treatment; this study show there is opportunity for improvement. Plan sponsors should develop care and utilization management programs that encourage adherence and cost-effective treatment strategies.

Tofacitinib (Xeljanz®) Utilization Patterns and Persistency Among 4.4 Million Continuously Enrolled Commercially Insured Members Over Four Years (Fall 2016)

Related news

Perspectives

May 1, 2024

Prime Therapeutics releases new clinical insights report, “Weight management: A holistic journey”

Report encourages providers to consider health contexts and lifestyle modifications as well as personal preferences and current guidelines when prescribing GLP-1s for weight loss

Perspectives

April 30, 2024

AMCP 2024: Behind the GLP-1 Spotlight Session with Ben Urick

Urick, senior principal health outcomes researcher, shares more about his Spotlight Session at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP)’s Annual Meeting

Perspectives

April 30, 2024

Quarterly Drug Pipeline

Clinical insights and competitive intelligence on anticipated drugs in development