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The Policy VaultThe Policy Vault

Bimzelx (bimekizumab-bkzx)United Healthcare

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)

Preferred products

  • preferred adalimumab products
  • Cimzia (certolizumab)
  • Cosentyx (secukinumab)
  • Enbrel (etanercept)
  • Rinvoq (upadacitinib)
  • Simponi (golimumab)
  • Xeljanz/Xeljanz XR (tofacitinib)

Initial criteria

  • Diagnosis of active ankylosing spondylitis
  • AND one of the following: (a) History of failure to two NSAIDs at maximally indicated doses, each used ≥4 weeks unless contraindicated or intolerant (document drug, date, and duration) OR (b) Previously treated with a targeted immunomodulator FDA-approved for AS (document drug, date, and duration)
  • AND one of the following: (a) History of failure, contraindication, or intolerance to two of: preferred adalimumab product, Cimzia, Cosentyx, Enbrel, Rinvoq, Simponi, Xeljanz OR (b) Both: (i) Currently on Bimzelx therapy (documented) AND (ii) Has not received manufacturer sample/UCB program assistance to establish current use
  • AND Patient is not receiving Bimzelx in combination with another targeted immunomodulator (list provided)
  • AND Prescribed by or in consultation with a rheumatologist

Reauthorization criteria

  • Documentation of positive clinical response to Bimzelx therapy
  • AND patient is not receiving Bimzelx in combination with another targeted immunomodulator (list provided)

Approval duration

12 months