Biologics for Autoimmune Diseases
TNF inhibitors, IL inhibitors, and JAK inhibitors used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, and other autoimmune conditions.
How Biologics for Autoimmune Diseases Work
TNF inhibitors (Humira, Enbrel) block tumor necrosis factor, a protein that drives inflammation. IL-12/23 inhibitors (Stelara) and IL-17 inhibitors (Cosentyx) target specific interleukin pathways. IL-4/13 inhibitors (Dupixent) treat atopic dermatitis and asthma. JAK inhibitors (Rinvoq, Xeljanz) are oral pills that block Janus kinase enzymes inside immune cells.
Biologics for Autoimmune Diseases — Ranked by Cost Per Claim (Cheapest First)
| # | Drug | Generic Name | Cost/Claim | Generic? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Xeljanz | Tofacitinib | $1,685.00 | Yes |
| 2 | Enbrel | Etanercept | $1,726.00 | No |
| 3 | Otezla | Apremilast | $1,873.00 | Yes |
| 4 | Dupixent | Dupilumab | $2,819.00 | No |
| 5 | Humira | Adalimumab | $3,414.00 | Yes |
| 6 | Rinvoq | Upadacitinib | $3,498.00 | No |
| 7 | Taltz | Ixekizumab | $3,546.00 | Yes |
| 8 | Cosentyx | Secukinumab | $3,616.00 | Yes |
| 9 | Tremfya | Guselkumab | $3,696.00 | Yes |
| 10 | Skyrizi | Risankizumab | $4,475.00 | No |
| 11 | Stelara | Ustekinumab | $7,763.00 | Yes |
Potential Savings
22 Humira biosimilars are now available, with prices 5-85% below brand Humira ($3,414/claim). 9 Stelara biosimilars launched in 2025-2026. The biosimilar wave is projected to save Medicare $100B+ over the next decade.
Key Facts
- 1.24 million Americans have autoimmune diseases — most require lifelong treatment
- 2.Biologics cost $2,000-8,000+ per month, making them the most expensive drug class after cancer
- 3.22 Humira biosimilars are now on the US market — the most for any biologic
- 4.9 Stelara biosimilars launched with discounts ranging from 5% to 90% off brand price
- 5.Medicare negotiated a 66% price cut for Stelara effective 2026
- 6.JAK inhibitors (Rinvoq, Xeljanz) offer oral alternatives at $1,500-4,500/month
Frequently Asked Questions
The cheapest option is Humira biosimilars (Hadlima, Hyrimoz, etc.) at $1200 per claim. 22 Humira biosimilars are now available, with prices 5-85% below brand Humira ($3,414/claim). 9 Stelara biosimilars launched in 2025-2026. The biosimilar wave is projected to save Medicare $100B+ over the next decade.
TNF inhibitors (Humira, Enbrel) block tumor necrosis factor, a protein that drives inflammation. IL-12/23 inhibitors (Stelara) and IL-17 inhibitors (Cosentyx) target specific interleukin pathways. IL-4/13 inhibitors (Dupixent) treat atopic dermatitis and asthma. JAK inhibitors (Rinvoq, Xeljanz) are oral pills that block Janus kinase enzymes inside immune cells.
All spending data comes from the CMS Medicare Part D Drug Spending Dashboard. Patent and generic information comes from the FDA Orange Book. Prices shown are average cost per 30-day supply claim under Medicare Part D.