Humira (adalimumab): Change to citrate-free formulation

New medicine Active

The new citrate-free formula of Humira 40 mg pen will be funded from 1 July 2023.

Who is affected

Some people have been able to continue accessing Humira brand adalimumab after our brand change to Amgevita brand.

People using the Humira 40 mg prefilled pen will need to transition to the citrate-free formulation to continue to access funded treatment. 

The citrate-free formula of Humira 40 mg prefilled syringe has been funded since January 2023.

About this change

The citrate-free Humira in both the pre-filled syringe and pen has the same active ingredient, originating from the same master cell line.

The citrate-free prefilled pen is different and may be easier to use for some people. Abbvie's website provided information and videos about this change

Humira.co.nz | Abbvie's website(external link)

Funding rules remain the same

The Special Authority(external link) for the citrate-free formulation remains the same.

Timeline

1 January 2023: Humira 40 mg citrate-free prefilled syringe (Pharmacode 2635038) funded and available

Mid-January 2023: Humira 40 mg citrate-containing prefilled syringe (Pharmacode 2207354) likely to begin running out

1 July 2023: Humira 40 mg citrate-free prefilled pen (Pharmacode 2635011) funded and available

Mid-July 2023: Humira 40 mg citrate-containing prefilled pen (Pharmacode 2294397) likely to begin running out

Who to contact

If you have any questions about this change, email enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz