Biosimilars/Research
Biosimilars allow fast access to biological drug therapy in Bavaria, Germany
A new study has shown that patients suffering from rheumatism in Bavaria, Germany, are now likely to be prescribed a biological medicine much faster than five years ago. Results of the study were shared at the AG Pro Biosimilars digital symposium on 14 September 2020.
What oncologists do not understand about biosimilars
The availability of biosimilars may improve access to health care by increasing the number of therapeutic options available at potentially lower costs. However, based on the results of multiple surveys of many healthcare providers (HCPs) conducted in recent years, clinicians appear wary of prescribing biosimilars.
Budget savings from biosimilar infliximab in the UK, France, Japan and Korea
Biological medicines are attracting attention from policymakers and health insurers across countries due to their increased financial burden. The potential for biosimilars’ cost savings can be influenced by various factors, including supply-side (pricing policies) and demand-side (usage-enhancing) policies.
Celltrion’s biosimilars effective against gastric cancer and B-cell lymphoma
Recent clinical trial results confirm that Celltrion’s biosimilars Herzuma (trastuzumab) and Truxima (rituximab) are effective in the treatment of gastric cancer and B-cell lymphoma, respectively.
Monoclonal antibody biosimilars and cancer in the EU
Spanish researchers investigated the current status of biosimilar monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in the European Union (EU) by reviewing the regulatory pathway, the rationale for extrapolation and switching and the current status and future perspectives of the biosimilars approved in the EU [1].
Biosimilars in oncology in Europe
In the European Union (EU), a legal framework for approving biosimilars was established back in 2003. This framework allows for biosimilars to be approved using an abbreviated pathway centrally via the European Medicines Agency (EMA) [1].
The biosimilars market in Latin America: a summary
A review of the biosimilars market in Latin America [1] finds that Argentina, Brazil and Mexico have the largest number of approved similar biotherapeutic products (SBPs), while information in other countries is more limited. The review recommends investment in biotechnology hubs and further development of regulation on biological drugs.
Adalimumab copy biological shown to be safe and effective
Chinese biopharmaceutical firm Innovent Biologics’ adalimumab copy biological has shown comparable safety and efficacy to the originator drug, Humira (adalimumab), in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
Sustainable biosimilar policies in Europe
A review of approaches to biosimilar policy in Europe [1] highlights key principles for a sustainable biosimilar market, including supporting innovation and allowing for multiple suppliers.
Biosimilar infliximab reduces medication costs by two thirds in Finland
A study of 54 people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Finland showed that switching to biosimilar infliximab has no significant impact on health-related quality of life or disease activity, while reducing costs by two thirds [1].
