The Environmental Impact of Biologic Therapy
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Published on: February 28, 2018
Andrea Leung1, Georgia Marquez-Grap1, Tina Bhutani2
1Department of Dermatology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94132, USA.
Abstract:
Biologic medications have revolutionized the treatment of many dermatologic diseases, but they also necessitate unique packaging and shipping requirements to maintain their stability, typically involving temperature-controlled environments, polystyrene, and single-use plastic injector pens, contributing significantly to medical waste and carbon emissions. It is essential to consider the environmental impact of these treatments. Collaborative efforts among pharmaceutical companies, specialty pharmacies, insurance companies, health care providers, and patients are essential to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Dermatologists, in particular, have a critical role in addressing the environmental impact of biologic therapies, by advocating for systemwide changes.
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