Biosimilars/General
Adalimumab biosimilars in Europe: a review
A recent position statement from the Belgian inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) research group (BIRD) reviews the five biosimilars of adalimumab available in the European Union (EU) [1]. Adalimumab, which has been marketed under the brand name Humira, is a popular antibody treatment for a number of inflammatory conditions.
Swiss position statement on the use of biosimilars in IBD
Experts from the Swiss Society of Gastroenterology have provided a position statement on the use of biosimilars in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The position paper summarizes key regulatory and clinical issues around biosimilars to help improve clinician and patient awareness.
Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk launches lower-priced insulin options
Originator insulin makers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk have both announced the introduction of additional reduced cost insulin options for patients.
WHO prequalifies first biosimilar
The World Health Organization (WHO) has prequalified its first biosimilar – trastuzumab – in a move that the organization says, ‘could make this expensive, life-saving treatment more affordable and available to women globally’.
Canadian gastroenterologists issue biosimilar position statement
The Canadian Association of Gastroenterology (CAG) and Crohn’s and Colitis Canada announced on 24 October 2019 that they had issued a joint position statement on the use of biosimilars for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) [1].
WHO launches insulin prequalification programme
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a pilot prequalification scheme to certify biosimilar versions of insulin in order to increase supply in low- and middle-income countries.
UnitedHealthcare to preferentially cover Amgen’s anticancer biosimilars
The largest insurer in the US, UnitedHealthcare, has announced it will preferentially cover Amgen’s biosimilar cancer treatments from 1 October 2019.
Similar biotherapeutic products approved and marketed in Latin America
Last update: 29 November 2019
Regulation of similar biotherapeutic products in Latin America varies widely among different countries. Although many countries have yet to introduce guidance for biosimilars, Latin America is moving towards increasing standards of regulation for these products [1, 2].
Oncology pharmacists issue position statement on biosimilars
On 4 October 2019, the International Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners (ISOPP) issued their global position on the use of biosimilars in cancer treatment and supportive care.
Biosimilars of epoetin alfa
Last update: 4 November 2019
Epoetin alfa is a human erythropoietin produced in cell culture using recombinant DNA technology. It stimulates erythropoiesis (increases red blood cell levels) and is used to treat anaemia, commonly associated with chronic renal failure and cancer chemotherapy.
