G-CSF: filgrastim, lenograstim and biosimilars

The identification, purification and molecular cloning of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor G-CSF in the 1980s; the nonclinical studies in the mid-1980s; and the subsequent development of G-CSF as a therapeutic agent in the late 1980s and 1990s have had a major influence on the treatment of many diseases. In the clinical setting, filgrastim and lenograstim are of benefit to patients receiving chemotherapy or myeloablative treatment. They have been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality in many patient populations. Stem cell transplantation using G-CSF-mobilised peripheral-blood stem cells revolutionised stem cell transplantation, making it simpler, more efficient and more widely applicable in the clinic.

This review discusses the development and clinical uses of filgrastim, lenograstim and other biosimilar G-CSFs.

In the next few years, the economics of G-CSF may even change with the introduction of biosimilars. Initial concerns about the use of biosimilar G-CSFs, appear to be unfounded. Adoption of cost-effective biosimilars should help reduce healthcare costs and improve patient access to biological treatments.