The report is based on a US survey of 100 rheumatologists and 20 MCO pharmacy directors.
The report reveals that the surveyed rheumatologists expect a significant reduction in their use of corticosteroids through 2013, most likely due in part to their anticipated adoption of Benlysta.
Overall, the surveyed rheumatologists anticipate more widespread use of Benlysta compared with Rituxan by 2013.
More than one quarter of surveyed rheumatologists believe they will use Benlysta as an add-on therapy in moderate to severe SLE.
The report also reveals that Benlysta is likely to be covered equally under pharmacy or medical benefit in surveyed managed care organizations’ (MCOs) largest commercial plans, regardless of its surveyed price per year.