Taltz, with the active ingredient ixekizumab, is a brand-name biologic medication developed by Eli Lilly and Company. It is used to treat conditions like moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. Because Taltz is a biologic, it's not eligible for a generic version but could have a 'biosimilar'. As of late 2025, no FDA-approved biosimilar for Taltz is available.
Why is there no generic version of Taltz?
The lack of a Taltz generic is due to the fundamental differences between small-molecule drugs and biologics:
- Complex Structure: Small-molecule drugs have simple chemical structures that can be copied exactly for generics. Biologics like Taltz are large, complex molecules from living organisms, making an exact copy impossible. A 'highly similar' version, a biosimilar, is the only possibility.
- Different Approval Process: Biosimilars undergo a stricter approval process than generics, requiring extensive testing to show no clinical difference from the original.
- Patent Protection: Eli Lilly holds patents for Taltz, preventing other companies from selling competing versions. Biosimilar entry is expected after patents expire, possibly around 2027, though this can be affected by litigation.
The status of a Taltz (ixekizumab) biosimilar
Here's an update on the status of a Taltz biosimilar:
- No Approved Biosimilar: Currently, no FDA-approved Taltz biosimilar is available in the U.S..
- Future Potential: Companies can seek biosimilar approval after Taltz patents expire, likely increasing competition and lowering costs. Experts anticipate possible market entry from the late 2020s, but the exact timing is not confirmed.
- Citrate-Free Formulation: In 2022, a new citrate-free Taltz formulation was released to reduce injection pain. This is still the brand-name product and not a generic or biosimilar.
Comparison of Taltz with other IL-17A Inhibitors
Other IL-17A inhibitors are available as alternatives, though they are also brand-name biologics. Below is a comparison of Taltz with Cosentyx (secukinumab):
| Feature | Taltz (ixekizumab) | Cosentyx (secukinumab) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | ixekizumab | secukinumab |
| Drug Class | Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) inhibitor | Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) inhibitor |
| Manufacturer | Eli Lilly and Company | Novartis |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection | Subcutaneous injection or IV infusion |
| More Common Side Effects | Injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections, nausea, fungal infections | Upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, nausea, mouth sores |
| Age Range (Plaque Psoriasis) | Adults and children ages 6+ | Adults and children ages 6+ |
| Current Generic Status | No generic or biosimilar available | No generic or biosimilar available |
Cost-saving strategies while a generic is unavailable
To manage the cost of Taltz before a biosimilar is available, consider these options:
- Manufacturer Programs: Eli Lilly offers a Savings Card allowing eligible commercially insured patients to pay as little as $5.
- Patient Assistance: Programs from the manufacturer or non-profits can help those with limited or no insurance get medication at reduced or no cost.
- Insurance Review: Check your insurance for Taltz coverage. Your doctor can help with prior authorizations or appeals if needed.
- Specialty Pharmacy: Taltz is dispensed via specialty pharmacies, which may offer benefits like 90-day supplies that can sometimes lower costs.
- Doctor Consultation: Talk to your doctor about alternative biologics like Cosentyx or Humira that might be a better fit for your condition and insurance.
Conclusion
As a biologic drug, Taltz (ixekizumab) does not have a generic version. A biosimilar is anticipated after patent expiration, potentially around 2027, which could lead to lower costs. In the meantime, patients can explore cost-saving options like manufacturer savings cards and patient assistance programs. Discussing these with your healthcare provider is crucial for managing treatment costs.
