California to Offer Insulin at $11 Per Pen Starting Next Year

Civica Rx, in collaboration with Biocon Biologics, is also working to develop additional interchangeable biosimilar insulins

California will begin selling CalRx insulin glargine pens to consumers starting Jan. 1, 2026, at a suggested retail price of no more than $55 for a five-pack, equating to an average of $11 per pen. The announcement came with the insulin, an interchangeable biosimilar to Lantus, set to be available through an agreement between nonprofit generic drug manufacturer Civica Rx and Biocon Biologics.

The state’s pharmacies will purchase the 3 mL pens for $45 per five-pack, a significant drop from current market prices, according to officials. Insulin glargine, a long-acting insulin analog, is widely used to manage diabetes. The move follows California’s initiative to produce its own affordable medication, marking it the first state to do so for public purchase.

Civica Rx, in collaboration with Biocon Biologics, is also working to develop additional interchangeable biosimilar insulins, including rapid-acting versions, under the CalRx label. The effort aims to ensure a reliable supply amid concerns over high drug costs. The initiative builds on the CalRx Naloxone Access program, which has lowered naloxone prices and increased state purchases of the opioid overdose reversal drug.

The project stems from a 2019 executive order focusing on reducing prescription drug costs and improving access. California health officials noted the initiative targets equitable access, particularly for uninsured and underinsured residents, amid rising inflation and Medicaid funding challenges.