Biosimilars: The ‘future’ of biologic therapy?

Abstract

The introduction of a number of biologic therapies to the market has revolutionized therapeutics in dermatology. However, the patents protecting their manufacture are about to lapse, and follow-on generic products, known as biosimilars, are about to flood the pharmaceutical market. The ‘biosimilars’ are different from the generic products of conventional drugs in terms of efficacy, safety and immunogenicity. This awareness is essential for their proper prescription and the safety of patients. This article intends to serve as a primer for dermatologists in their understanding of biosimilars.

Key words::

• biologicals
• biosimilars
• generics
• psoriasis

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.