Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026

Biobank for Translational Medicine: Standard Operating Procedures for Optimal Sample Management
Published on: November 30, 2022
Regulatory considerations in oncologic biosimilar drug development
Judith C Macdonald1, Helen Hartman, Ira A Jacobs
1a Pfizer Ltd. ; Tadworth , Surrey , UK.
Abstract:
Biosimilar monoclonal antibodies are being developed globally for patients with different types of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies. Applications for proposed biosimilar monoclonal antibodies are being submitted to the regulatory authorities around the world and may increase patient access to key treatment options upon approval. An understanding among stakeholders (e.g., physicians, patients and their caregivers, pharmacists, payers) of the approval criteria, as well as the similarities and differences in regulatory pathways involved in biosimilar approval in different countries, as presented in this review, will facilitate identification of high-quality, safe, monoclonal antibodies that have been developed according to strict, biosimilar regulatory standards. Further guidance and resolution of the ongoing discussions on biosimilar labeling, naming, automatic substitution, and indication extrapolation may ensure, in the future, an effective and appropriate use of biosimilar monoclonal antibodies by oncologists and other stakeholders in daily clinical practice.
Insights
Biosimilar monoclonal antibodies offer new cancer treatment options. Understanding global regulatory pathways ensures access to safe, high-quality therapies for patients with solid tumors and hematologic malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Biosimilar monoclonal antibodies are increasingly developed for solid tumors and hematologic malignancies.
- Regulatory submissions for these therapies are rising globally, potentially improving patient access.
- Stakeholder understanding of regulatory processes is crucial for identifying high-quality biosimilars.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review global regulatory pathways for biosimilar monoclonal antibody approval.
- To facilitate stakeholder understanding of approval criteria and international differences.
- To promote the identification of safe and effective biosimilar treatments.
Main Methods:
- Review of global regulatory agency guidelines and approval criteria for biosimilar monoclonal antibodies.
- Comparative analysis of regulatory pathways in different countries.
- Synthesis of information for various stakeholders including physicians, patients, and payers.
Main Results:
- Significant global development and regulatory submissions for biosimilar monoclonal antibodies are occurring.
- Variations exist in regulatory pathways and approval criteria across different countries.
- Key areas for future guidance include labeling, naming, substitution, and indication extrapolation.
Conclusions:
- Understanding diverse regulatory landscapes is essential for ensuring the quality, safety, and efficacy of biosimilar monoclonal antibodies.
- Harmonization and clear guidance on biosimilar use will optimize their integration into clinical practice.
- Enhanced stakeholder education is vital for the appropriate clinical application of these novel therapies.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Drug Products: Biologics, Biosimilars and Interchangeables
Bioequivalence of Drugs: Drugs with Multiple Indications
Bioequivalence: Overview
Types of Biopharmaceutical Studies: Controlled and Non-Controlled Approaches
Non-controlled studies, commonly employed for initial exploration, lack a control group, rendering them susceptible to biases and external influences. In contrast,...
Biopharmaceutical Factors Influencing Drug Product Design: Overview
Drug Regulation

