Biocon Biologics, Viatris interchangeable biosimilar Insulin Glargine preferred on Express Scripts' largest formulary in US

"This dual product approach is intended to ensure that this historic interchangeable biosimilar insulin glargine can reach as many patients as possible regardless of financial circumstances, insurance or channel," the company added.

Commenting on this marquee development, Dr Arun Chandavarkar, Managing Director, Biocon Biologics said: "The inclusion of our interchangeable biosimilar insulin glargine in Express Scripts' National Preferred Formulary (NPF) in the U.S. is a major milestone for Biocon Biologics. It furthers our mission of enabling affordable access to quality insulins to a large number of patients. We expect our partner to commercialize the product in the U.S. by end of the year and formulary coverage to begin in Jan 2022, making it an important growth driver for Biocon Biologics."

"We believe adoption of biosimilars through PBMs like Express Scripts, will drive down the high cost of biologics therapy for chronic diseases like diabetes. Our biosimilar Insulin Glargine has the potential to bring significant cost savings for patients, employers and PBMs," he added.

In July 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) had approved biosimilar Insulin Glargine-yfgn injection (Semglee) as the first interchangeable biosimilar product under the 351(k) regulatory pathway, endorsing scientific excellence and robust quality comparability data. Semglee* (insulin glargine-yfgn) Injection and Insulin Glargine-yfgn Injection will be available in pharmacies before the end of the year. The Express Scripts formulary change, including coverage of Semglee* (insulin glargineyfgn) on NPF, will occur effective January 1, 2022.