#United States #Raleigh #Accord BioPharma #HERCESSI #HERCEPTIN

Accord BioPharma’s HERCESSI™ Achieves Preferred Status

Accord BioPharma, a significant player in the oncology and immunology fields, has made headlines once again by securing a preferred status for its biosimilar therapy, HERCESSI™ (trastuzumab-strf), on Express Scripts' National Preferred Formulary. This pivotal development, effective from January 1, 2026, is expected to enhance patient access to affordable HER2-targeted treatments for breast and gastric cancers.

What is HERCESSI™?

HERCESSI™ is a biosimilar to the well-known cancer treatment HERCEPTIN® (trastuzumab) and has been approved by the FDA for treating HER2-overexpressing breast cancer and HER2-positive gastric or gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma. As a biosimilar, it exhibits no clinically relevant differences compared to its reference product, providing recipients with an effective alternative at a reduced cost.

Implications of Preferred Formulary Placement

The placement of HERCESSI on Express Scripts' preferred list signifies a major breakthrough in the ongoing battle against high medication costs in the United States. Express Scripts stands as one of the nation's largest pharmacy benefit managers, and its endorsement helps guarantee that patients can access their necessary medications without prohibitive expenses. This strategic move not only serves patients but also emphasizes Accord BioPharma's commitment to maximizing healthcare accessibility.

Accord BioPharma’s President and CEO, Chrys Kokino, highlighted the value that biosimilars, like HERCESSI™, bring to the healthcare landscape. He remarked, "Gaining preferred formulary status reinforces the value biosimilars bring to the healthcare system. Express Scripts' decision to prioritize more affordable options helps ensure that cost doesn't prevent patients from receiving the cancer care they need."

Moreover, this addition marks Accord BioPharma's growing partnerships with significant payers, following another recent agreement with Express Scripts for IMULDOSA (ustekinumab-srlf). Paul Purdy, VP, Head of Market Access at Accord BioPharma, pointed out that these are just the initial steps toward creating accessible pathways to biologic treatments for patients battling cancer and other serious illnesses.

HERCESSI™ and Patient Support

For patients eligible for treatment with HERCESSI™, assistance programs are available that can alleviate copay burdens, ensuring that finances do not hinder access to necessary therapies. This commitment to patient support reflects Accord BioPharma's vision of improving the overall patient experience in the healthcare system.

Safety Information

While the efficacy of HERCESSI™ stands acknowledged, it is crucial to mention that it carries significant safety warnings, including the risk of cardiomyopathy, infusion reactions, embryo-fetal toxicity, and pulmonary toxicity. An extensive risk profile is associated with trastuzumab products naturally, and patients must be aware of these warnings before undergoing treatment.

Looking Ahead

As healthcare continues to evolve, organizations like Accord BioPharma remain at the forefront, championing the cause for affordable and effective cancer treatments. With the ongoing introductions of innovative therapies and partnerships with major pharmacy benefit managers, patients can look forward to greater access to life-saving medications.

For detailed information regarding HERCESSI™ including safety information and copay assistance, patients can visit hercessi.com.

In conclusion, Accord BioPharma’s recent success with HERCESSI™ exemplifies a promising advancement in making cancer treatment more accessible for patients, emphasizing the critical role of biosimilars in today’s healthcare ecosystem.