Subcutaneous Infliximab Now Accessible via Cigna and Express Scripts

In a significant advancement for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Celltrion USA has announced a groundbreaking partnership with two of the nation's leading healthcare providers, Cigna Healthcare and Express Scripts. This strategic collaboration is set to make ZYMFENTRA® (infliximab-dyyb), the first and only FDA-approved subcutaneous infliximab, more accessible to millions of Americans suffering from conditions like ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD).

 

Starting August 1, 2024, ZYMFENTRA® has been included in the medical benefit formulary of Cigna Healthcare, potentially reaching over 16 million insured lives. This landmark agreement not only solidifies ZYMFENTRA®'s status as a preferred treatment option but also underscores Celltrion USA’s commitment to delivering innovative healthcare solutions.

 

A New Era for Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment

ZYMFENTRA® offers a novel approach to managing IBD. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2023, ZYMFENTRA® provides maintenance therapy for adults with moderate to severe UC and CD. Unlike traditional treatments that require intravenous (IV) administration, ZYMFENTRA® is administered subcutaneously, offering a more convenient option for patients. This subcutaneous form allows patients to manage their condition with greater flexibility, potentially reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.

 

"Celltrion USA is dedicated to broadening access to innovative and effective treatment options," said Francine Galante, Vice President of Market Access at Celltrion USA. "Our partnership with Cigna and Express Scripts will enhance the choices available to physicians and patients. We believe ZYMFENTRA® will deliver substantial value as an alternative administration option, allowing patients to have greater flexibility in managing their disease."

 

Pioneering Subcutaneous Biologics

ZYMFENTRA® is not just another medication; it is a game-changer in the field of biologics. It works by targeting and blocking tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), a protein that, when overproduced, causes the immune system to attack healthy tissues. By inhibiting this protein, ZYMFENTRA® helps to reduce the inflammation and other symptoms associated with UC and CD.

 

This new form of treatment is part of a growing trend in the healthcare industry to develop biologics that can be administered in less invasive ways, thereby improving patient compliance and outcomes. ZYMFENTRA®'s subcutaneous delivery method is particularly advantageous for patients who have undergone prior treatment with IV-administered infliximab products, offering them a new, easier way to maintain their health.

 

Enhancing Patient Access and Safety

The collaboration between Celltrion USA, Cigna, and Express Scripts is designed not only to provide broader access to ZYMFENTRA® but also to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. Serious infections, including tuberculosis (TB), fungal infections, and opportunistic infections, are potential risks associated with ZYMFENTRA®. As part of the treatment protocol, patients will be monitored closely for signs of infection, and those with latent TB or other chronic infections will receive necessary treatment before beginning ZYMFENTRA® therapy.

 

This focus on patient safety is a testament to Celltrion USA’s commitment to providing high-quality, safe, and effective treatment options. With ZYMFENTRA®'s inclusion in the Cigna formulary, more patients will have access to this innovative therapy, improving the quality of life for those suffering from debilitating gastrointestinal conditions.

 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Biologics in IBD Care

As Celltrion USA continues to innovate, the company remains focused on its mission to make high-quality biopharmaceuticals accessible to U.S. patients. With five biosimilars already approved by the FDA, including INFLECTRA® and HERZUMA®, and now the pioneering ZYMFENTRA®, Celltrion USA is leading the charge in the development of cutting-edge treatments for chronic diseases.

 

For patients with UC and CD, the introduction of ZYMFENTRA® represents hope and the possibility of a more manageable and effective treatment regimen. As the landscape of biologics evolves, partnerships like this will be crucial in ensuring that innovative therapies reach those who need them most, paving the way for a future where chronic diseases can be managed more effectively and with greater ease.