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

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.