AbbVie is the manufacturer of Humira [1].
Who makes Humira?
AbbVie is the pharmaceutical company that developed and manufactures Humira (adalimumab) [1].
When does Humira patent expire?
The primary patents for Humira have expired in the United States and Europe, allowing for the introduction of biosimilar versions [2][3]. However, AbbVie has engaged in extensive patent litigation and secured numerous secondary patents, which has delayed the entry of biosimilars in the US market [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com tracks these patent expirations and related legal challenges [4].
What are the alternatives to Humira?
Several biosimilar versions of adalimumab are available or have been approved in various markets, offering alternatives to Humira. These include biosimilars from companies like Amgen, Samsung Bioepis, and Boehringer Ingelheim [2][3]. Beyond biosimilars, other biologic drugs are used to treat the same autoimmune conditions as Humira, such as Enbrel (etanercept), Remicade (infliximab), and Taltz (ixekizumab) [5].
What conditions does Humira treat?
Humira is approved to treat a range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. These include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, plaque psoriasis, and hidradenitis suppurativa [1].
How is Humira administered?
Humira is administered as a subcutaneous injection [1].
What are the risks of Humira?
Like other biologic medications, Humira carries potential risks. These can include serious infections, an increased risk of certain cancers, and allergic reactions [1]. Patients should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.
How much does Humira cost?
The cost of Humira can be substantial, which has been a factor driving the development and demand for biosimilar alternatives [4]. The price of biosimilar versions is generally expected to be lower than the originator product.
What is a biosimilar?
A biosimilar is a biological product that is highly similar to a U.S.-licensed reference biologic drug, with no clinically meaningful differences in terms of safety, purity, and potency. Biosimilars are not considered interchangeable with the reference product unless specifically approved as such [6].
Sources:
[1] https://www.rxlist.com/humira-drug.htm
[2] https://www.bmj.com/content/374/bmj-2021-067946
[3] https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/humira
[4] https://drugpatentwatch.com/
[5] https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/medication/biologics/biologic-drug-comparisons
[6] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/biosimilars/about-biosimilars