BRIEF—Authorized Humalog generic to debut in USA at 50% lower list price

Reinforcing our commitment to lower out-of-pocket costs for people who need insulin, Eli Lilly today announced it will introduce a lower-priced version of its own Humalog(insulin lispro injection 100 units/mL) in the USA, providing people with diabetes an insulin option that will have a list price 50% lower than the current Humalog list price.

David Ricks, Lilly's chairman and chief executive, said: "The significant rebates we pay on insulins do not directly benefit all patients. This needs to change. There are numerous ideas, including the rebate reform proposal from HHS. For people with diabetes, a lower-priced insulin can serve as a bridge that addresses gaps in the system until a more sustainable model is achieved."

The lower-priced version will be called Insulin Lispro - the same molecule as Humalog - and will be available in vial and pen options.

The list price of a single vial will be $137.35, and that for a five-pack of KwikPens will be $265.20.

Vials and pens of the lower-priced insulin have been manufactured, and Lilly will now work with supply chain partners to make them available in pharmacies as quickly as possible.

It will be made available as an authorized generic through Lilly subsidiary ImClone Systems.

Humalog will also remain available for people who want to continue accessing it through their current insurance plans.