Celltrion’s biosimilar immunology drug, Yuflyma (generic name: adalimumab), is experiencing remarkable growth and solidifying its presence in the European market.
According to market research firm IQVIA, as of the first quarter of this year, Uplizna accounted for a 24% prescription share across Europe, marking a 3 percentage point increase from the previous quarter. This growth has brought its market share within just 1 percentage point of the leading product, suggesting that Uplizna is poised to become the top adalimumab treatment in Europe soon. This achievement is particularly significant given the highly competitive landscape, where more than ten adalimumab treatments have received authorization from the European Medicines Agency (EMA).
Despite entering the market in Q3 2021—three years after the launch of multiple adalimumab biosimilars—Yuflyma has demonstrated rapid growth. This momentum is attributed to the success of Celltrion’s direct sales strategy in Europe, making Yuflyma the company's second product to be marketed directly by Celltrion in the region. The experience gained from the earlier launch of ‘Remsima SC’ (subcutaneous infliximab) has allowed the company to develop strong hospital sales and successful bid procurement capabilities.
Furthermore, Yuflyma benefits from having the same indications as existing immunology treatments, allowing the company to leverage an already established network of healthcare professionals. The strategy to expand prescriptions by targeting situations where some patients develop resistance and require therapy switching has also contributed to its growth. Celltrion is creating synergies by complementing its infliximab product lineup with adalimumab, further strengthening its position in the market.
Market-specific performance highlights significant growth in key European countries. In Italy, Yuflyma’s market share reached 52%, a 5 percentage point increase from the previous quarter, accounting for over half of the market. In the UK, its share rose to 33%, also up by 5 percentage points. In Finland, a major market in Northern Europe, Yuflyma holds a 47% share, while Portugal and the Netherlands have secured 21% and 20%, respectively, underscoring its competitive standing across Europe.
Celltrion continues to expand its portfolio of immunology treatments. After launching ‘Steqeyma’ (ustekinumab) last year, the company plans to introduce ‘Avtozma’ (tocilizumab) in the second half of this year, bringing its total to five core first-line treatment options in Europe.
A Celltrion spokesperson stated, “Despite being later to market, Yuflyma’s rapid entry into the leading group demonstrates that our direct sales capabilities have surpassed the advantages of first-mover status,” and added, “We will continue to expand sales across all our products in Europe.”
