How to save money on Humira

If you’re one of the millions who take Humira, you know the wide-ranging benefits of this popular drug. Even if you don’t take it, it probably sounds familiar — the TV ads have made it a household name.

Humira is one of the best-selling medications in the world, used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and psoriasis. It’s popular because it can treat so many conditions. But there’s a not-so-popular side effect that impacts millions, too: Depending on your insurance coverage, Humira can be expensive.

What contributes to Humira’s cost?

A month’s supply of Humira can cost more than $7,000. Why so high? Besides a broken pharmaceutical system, Humira is a complex medication to make. DNA technology is used to create proteins for the drug — a process that can’t be replicated, unlike with synthetically manufactured medications.

The high cost of Humira makes it difficult, often impossible, for many to afford the medication. And unfortunately, there’s no generic, lower-cost version available. That means those who need Humira are forced to search for ways to save on their prescriptions as much as they can.

Saving money on Humira

Getting the best price on Humira requires some homework. Even with discounts, it can still be a huge expense. But every little bit helps, so here are five ways to save on Humira.

CASH OR SELF-PAY

The next time you step up to the pharmacy counter, don’t assume insurance is the cheapest option. Ask for the out-of-pocket cost to find out if you’re getting the best price. Cash prices can vary greatly, so be sure to check prices at several pharmacies.

INSURANCE

Humira is covered by most insurance plans, but the amount of coverage can vary by plan. It’s important to note that most insurance plans will require prior authorization or step therapy process before they’ll agree to cover the cost of Humira. If you get pharmacy benefits through your employer, ask them for ways you can see the cost of prescription drugs before you get to the pharmacy counter.

COUPONS

Coupons can be a great way to save on Humira. AbbVie Inc., the manufacturer of Humira, offers the Humira Complete Savings Card for eligible patients. For those not eligible, using an online coupon is a great second-option.

MANUFACTURER REBATES

You may be able to lower Humira costs by using the Humira Complete Prescription Rebate, available for those with commercial prescription coverage or self-insured patients. To learn more about rebates, visit the manufacturer’s website.

ABBVIE PATIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Unemployed or underinsured patients may qualify for the AbbVie Patient Assistance Program. It’s free to apply, and those who qualify receive their medication completely free of cost. Visit AbbVie’s website for more information.

More prescription power

The prescription experience can be daunting. The high costs of drugs like Humira make it challenging for so many to live healthy. But mobile-first technology is putting more prescription power in patients’ hands, providing the ability to search for better prices on medications and choose a preferred pharmacy. The bottom line: we should be able shop for prescription drugs the way we shop for everything else in our lives – with choice, transparency and convenience.