Global Acceptance of Biosimilars: Importance of Regulatory Consistency, Education, and Trust.

Global Acceptance of Biosimilars: Importance of Regulatory Consistency, Education, and Trust. Oncologist. 2018 May 16;: Authors: Cazap E, Jacobs I, McBride A, Popovian R, Sikora K Abstract Globally, biosimilars are expected to have a key role in improving patient access to biological therapies and addressing concerns regarding the escalating cost of health care. Indeed, in Europe, increased use of biologics and reduced drug prices have been observed after the introduction of biosimilars. Recently, several monoclonal antibody biosimilars of anticancer therapies have been approved, and numerous others are in various stages of clinical development. Biosimilars are authorized via a regulatory pathway separate from that used for generic drugs; they are also regulated separately from novel biologics. Biosimilar approval pathways in many major regulatory regions worldwide are, to a broad degree, scientifically aligned. However, owing to regional differences in health care priorities, policies, and resources, some important regulatory inconsistencies are evident. Acceptance of biosimilars by health care systems, health care professionals, and patients will be a key factor in the uptake of these therapies, and such regulatory variations could contribute to confusion and diminished confidence regarding the quality, efficacy, and reliability of these agents. Furthermore, the need for manufacturers to account for regulatory inconsistencies intro...
Source: The Oncologist - Category: Cancer & Oncology Authors: Tags: Oncologist Source Type: research