The complexity of a biological product means that no identical copy can be made. The biosimilars that are currently approved in the EU are relatively simple biological compounds, such as human growth hormone, erythropoietin and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. Monoclonal antibodies are considerably more complicated.

Biosimilar mAbs on the horizon
A biosimlar of the mAb infliximab (Remsima) received approval in Europe on 10 September 2013 [2] and was approved by the Korean FDA in 2012 [3]. There is significant ongoing activity within the biosimilar industry and it is thought that several biosimilar mAbs will receive European marketing approval in the next few years.

There are many obstacles to overcome before biosimilar mAbs can enter daily clinical practice. The demonstration of bioequivalence demands extensive comparability studies at the level of quality characteristics, biological activity and functional characterization. In addition, the collection of post-marketing safety data will be essential to monitor any possible immunogenicity or other rare adverse events.

Saving billions
A significant challenge that could further delay market access is the cost of these biosimilars. Biosimilar mAbs are forecast to cost 10–30% less than originators. This might be considered an insignificant saving in terms of percentage alone, but it has been calculated that this would save between Euros 1.8 and 20.4 billion between 2007 and 2020. Clearly this would have a positive impact on healthcare sustainability.

The clinical community needs to be given sufficient reassurance on the safe use of biosimilars and every effort must be made to avoid unnecessary delay before these valuable products enter the market. Ongoing collection of post-marketing safety data will be of prime importance once these products have been approved.

Editor’s comment
If you are interested in contributing a research paper in a similar area or a Perspective paper on biosimilar mAbs to GaBI Journal, please send us your submission here.

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References
1.  Laslop A. Biosimilar monoclonal antibodies—challenges and opportunities in Europe. Generics and Biosimilars Initiative Journal (GaBI Journal) 2013;2(3):110-1. doi:10.5639/gabij.2013.0203.034
2.  GaBI Online - Generics and Biosimilars Initiative. EC approves first monoclonal antibody biosimilar [www.gabionline.net]. Mol, Belgium: Pro Pharma Communications International; [cited 2013 Sep 27]. Available from: www.gabionline.net/Biosimilars/News/EC-approves-first-monoclonal-antibody-biosimilar
3.  GaBI Online - Generics and Biosimilars Initiative. Biosimilar monoclonal antibody approved in Korea [www.gabionline.net]. Mol, Belgium: Pro Pharma Communications International; [cited 2013 Sep 27]. Available from: www.gabionline.net/Biosimilars/News/Biosimilar-monoclonal-antibody-approved-in-Korea

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