Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of myRAteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I am being told by HAP insurance that I must try 4 different medications before they will cover the Actemra. That being said I have already been on 3 of the 4 medications. and many others over the past 10 years
The medicine in question is called Tyenne. It is a biosimilar to Actemra as the insurance Co says. meaning the active ingredients are very similar
What they are not telling us is that one of the inactive ingredients in Tyenne is Aluminum zirconium compounds. Yes the same stuff that's… read more

February 21
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members shared widespread frustration over insurance companies denying Actemra in favor of the biosimilar Tyenne in 2026, with several... Read more

Members shared widespread frustration over insurance companies denying Actemra in favor of the biosimilar Tyenne in 2026, with several experiencing forced switches despite Actemra working well for their rheumatoid arthritis. Many members expressed concern about Tyenne's inactive ingredient aluminum zirconium and reported side effects including skin and mouth issues, with some considering refusing the medication or strategically failing it to get Actemra reapproved through prior authorization appeals. A recurring theme was anger at insurance companies prioritizing cost savings over patient wellbeing, the exhausting cycle of fighting for coverage, and solidarity among members navigating these barriers together.

A myRAteam Member

I admittedly did not do my due diligence and research Tyenne as I should have. What you have discovered with the Aluminum Zirconium is concerning. Having said that I’ve only had about three injections so far. I take it every other week. I’m feeling pretty good at this point. We almost never found a Rx that I responded to and I was over the moon when started Actemra. I’m so so tired of the constant fight with insurance. I have Federal Blue Cross Blue Shield. The ironic ting is we had to get prior authorization for the Actemra in the first place, then no sooner than I started it, my insurance stated that no longer cover it. Keep up the good fight and make them do their job and cover your Actemra. Sending you white light and good vibes!

February 24
A myRAteam Member

Hi Justin~
Have you started the Tyenne injections yet? How are feeling?
There is absolutely no way in &^&% I will inject myself with Tyenne.
I hate that insurance companies lie to save a dollar. it's the inactive ingredients in Tyenne that will hurt us. I will never inject myself with Aluminum zirconium
I have decided worst case scenario, I will play their game right back and tell them I tried it, and it made me very sick. Then let them okay the Actemra.

February 24
A myRAteam Member

yes I did go through the prior approval process, so far the doctor has been denied twice, they keep going back to you have to try all 4 medicines first. So frustrating and scary.

February 22
A myRAteam Member

No, but my doctor had some concerns and was wanting to be sure that my script was able to be filled and told me to let her know if there were any issues.

February 21
A myRAteam Member

Did you try to get a Prior Approval with your DR and your Ins Co. I have to do that a lot. with my Rx's. Did you try to appeal the decisoin?

February 21
COVID-19 and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Essential Updates Read more >

Related Questions

View All