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Biosimilars: Competing in the Biologics

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Poonam
Biosimilars: Competing in the Biologics

Introduction to Biosimilars

Biosimilars are biologic medical products that are developed to be similar to an already licensed biologic product, known as the reference biologic product (or reference product). Biosimilars undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are as safe and effective as the originator biologic product. Key factors driving the development of biosimilars include the expiry of patents covering reference biologics and the potential for more affordable treatment options.

Regulatory Approvals and Clinical Testing

For a product to be approved as a biosimilar, the developer must conduct extensive analytical, non-clinical, and clinical studies to demonstrate biosimilarity to the reference product. The aim is to show there are no clinically meaningful differences between the Biosimilars  and the originator product in terms of safety, purity, and potency. Regulatory bodies require clinical testing to establish pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic similarity between the biosimilar and the reference product. Phase III clinical trials may also be needed depending on the specific product and indication. Biosimilars approved in the European Union or by the US Food and Drug Administration have undergone a rigorous review based on a totality of evidence.

Market Uptake and Cost Savings Potential

As patents and exclusivity periods covering major biologic therapies expire, biosimilars can enter the market and drive cost savings through competition. Prices for biosimilar products are typically 15-30% lower than the originator product. In addition, as multiple biosimilars gain approval for a given reference product, further price competition results. For example, the entry of biosimilar infliximab products in Europe resulted in cost savings of up to 40% for drug procurement agencies. The potential for significant cost savings from biosimilars has led to their rapidly increasing use in Europe. In the US, the uptake has been slower due to additional patent and regulatory hurdles. Still, biosimilars are predicted to save the US healthcare system over $44 billion over the next five years.

Challenges in Market Uptake

Despite the potential cost savings, the uptake of biosimilars faces challenges stemming from uncertainties around interchangeability and substitution. Pharmacists can only automatically substitute generics for branded small-molecule drugs; biologics and biosimilars are typically treated as separate products that require specific prescription. Educating physicians, pharmacy benefit managers, and patients about the appropriate use of biosimilars remains a key barrier. Biologic manufacturers may also adopt "patent thickets" and additional regulatory exclusivities that delay biosimilar competition. Concerns over immunogenicity, while unfounded according to regulators, also play into the perceptions of both physicians and patients. Overcoming these challenges requires coordination between stakeholders to maximize appropriate use and, in turn, extract the full economic benefit of biosimilars.

Making Inroads in Oncology

The lucrative oncology market presents an important opportunity for biosimilars. Monoclonal antibodies have become a mainstay of cancer treatment since trastuzumab emerged in 1998 for breast cancer. Drugs like bevacizumab, rituximab and trastuzumab have had blockbuster sales, but their high prices also pose huge costs for healthcare systems globally. The expiry of patents on these biologics means biosimilars are now being approved, offering more affordable alternatives for cancer care. Key oncology drug classes with approved biosimilars include erythropoietins, growth factors, and monoclonal antibodies targeting rheumatoid arthritis as well as cancers like breast and colorectal cancer. Better integration of biosimilars into oncology treatment pathways will be crucial for optimized resource allocation and expanded access to life-saving therapies.

Outlook for Future Growth

Looking ahead, the biosimilars sector is well positioned for steady growth driven by patent expiries on major reference biologics, development of new reference products, and evolving regulations improving pathways. By 2025, over $60 billion in biologic sales in the US alone could be displaced by biosimilars according to analytics firms. The development pipeline is active with biosimilars being readied to follow best-sellers in immunology, hematology and endocrinology. Regions like Asia and Latin America also represent expanding markets where biosimilars can improve access to biologic drugs. The future opportunity will depend on navigating remaining barriers to drive appropriate use and substitution. With sustained commitment from stakeholders, biosimilars can deliver on their promise to substantially widen access to cutting-edge biologic treatments globally while producing large cost savings.

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