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.

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

About Prime Therapeutics

Prime Therapeutics LLC (Prime) is a diversified pharmacy solutions organization serving health plans, employers and government programs. Prime is collectively owned by 19 Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans, subsidiaries or affiliates of those plans. Magellan Rx Management LLC, a Prime Therapeutics LLC Company, is a pioneer in specialty and medical drug management and a leader in serving public sector state government programs. Together Prime and Magellan Rx provide a wide range of clients with solutions that bridge the distance between medical and pharmacy management. For more information visit primetherapeutics.com and magellanrx.com or follow us on X (Twitter) at @Prime_PBM and @Magellan_Rx.

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