Reports
Growth in Netherlands pharma market held back by generics policies
The pharmaceutical market in The Netherlands will rise slowly from approximately US$6.7 billion in 2014 to US$7.2 billion by 2020. Growth is being restricted by the government’s focus on generics as a cost-containment tool, according to research and consulting firm GlobalData.
Biosimilars use in Europe varies widely
Use of biosimilars in Europe varies widely between countries and therapy areas, according to a report published by IMS Health in October 2014.
Development of biosimilars for rheumatoid arthritis
Biosimilars development is a hive of activity, with development of biosimilars for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis being one of the busiest areas in the biosimilars field, see Table 1 [1].
Patients satisfied with generics
A report by health information resource, Iodine, has found that patients have a similar level of satisfaction with generics compared to brand-name drugs.
Generics save US 1.5 trillion over last 10 years
Generics have saved consumers and the US healthcare system US$239 billion in 2013 and have saved the US nearly US$1.5 trillion between 2004 and 2013, according to a report by the Generic Pharmaceutical Association (GPhA) [1].
Elderly patients in US lack knowledge on biosimilars
A survey conducted by patient advocacy group RetireSafe finds that seniors are largely unaware of biosimilars and that they overwhelmingly support strong patient safeguards and notification of patients and physicians when biosimilar substitution takes place.
Global and national biosimilars players increasing
The number of players in the biosimilars field is increasing with both originator and generics manufacturers devoting resources to biosimilars. This applies to global companies as well as to national players [1].
Biosimilars in emerging markets
Less strict or ‘relaxed’ regulatory requirements for biosimilars in some emerging markets are driving the proliferation of non-originator biologicals [1].
Biosimilar events from 2012 to 2014
The last few years have seen biosimilars the hot topic on the agenda of most countries. This is evidenced by the increasing number of biosimilars manufacturers as well as approvals for biosimilars around the world [1].
Use of biosimilars in Europe differs across countries
In Europe, the use of biosimilars exhibits different rates in different countries. This can lead to inequalities in access to biologicals, for instance, for the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as arthritis [1].
