Switching to biosimilars: current perspectives in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pharmacoeconomics
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Patent expiries of biologics have led to the development of biosimilars.
• Biosimilars offer potential for broader patient access to therapies for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs).
• While initiating biosimilars in treatment-naïve patients is accepted, switching stable patients requires careful consideration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss considerations for switching patients with IMIDs from reference biologics to biosimilars.
• To review clinical data and real-world experience regarding biosimilar switching.
• To explore physician and patient perspectives, medical society stances, and communication strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical trial data and real-world evidence on biosimilar switching in IMIDs.
• Analysis of medical society positions on biosimilar use.
• Discussion of patient-physician communication and shared decision-making.

Main Results:

• Growing evidence supports the safety and efficacy of switching from reference biologics to biosimilars.
• Physician and patient acceptance of switching is increasing with accumulating real-world data.
• Effective patient-physician communication is crucial for successful switching.

Conclusions:

• Biosimilars enhance treatment accessibility and financial sustainability for IMID therapies.
• Increased real-world evidence is expected to further boost acceptance of biosimilar initiation and switching.
• Shared decision-making and open communication are vital for patient confidence in biosimilar therapy.