Similarities and Differences in Biosimilars: A Literature Review and Summary

Authors

  • Lauren Lam, MD, BScH, FRCPC Beacon Dermatology, Calgary, Alberta

Abstract

The use of biosimilars is becoming standard practice for Canadian dermatologists. However, most of these clinicians most likely graduated prior to their adoption of biosimilars and, as a result, are likely to have minimal to no experience with biosimilars. Considering this limited prior experience, it can be challenging to gain a full understanding of how one biosimilar differentiates from another. The objective of this paper is to educate clinicians so that they are well‑informed on how to select the appropriate biosimilar for the patient at hand. This literature review and summary will review the current biosimilar landscape in Canada; review nuances between adalimumab biosimilars; and review available clinical experience data of adalimumab switch to biosimilar and vice versa for the treatment of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). It also aims to highlight methodologies for improving biosimilar patient compliance when switching to alternative agents. 

Author Biography

Lauren Lam, MD, BScH, FRCPC, Beacon Dermatology, Calgary, Alberta

Dr. Lam is a Canadian board-certified dermatologist who completed her medical school training at the University of Calgary and her dermatology residency at the University of Alberta. Her particular passions in dermatology are acne & hidradenitis suppurativa deroofings. In addition to her regular practice, she volunteers on overseas medical trips. Her passion for providing care for under-served populations has taken her to Nunavut and rural Fiji. 

References

Montero-Vilchez T, Cuenca-Barrales C, Rodriguez-Tejero A, et al. Switching from adalimumab originator to biosimilar: clinical experience in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. J Clin Med. 2022;11(4):1007.

St-Clair Jones A, Prignano F, Goncalves J, et al. Understanding & minimizing injection-site pain following subcutaneous administration of biologics: a narrative review. Rheumatol Ther. 2020;7:741-757).

Odorici G, Lucrezia Pacetti R, Forconi R, et al. Seven years-experience of adalimumab therapy for HS in a real-life dermatologic setting. J Dermatolog Treat. 2022. 33(4):2063-7.

Published

2024-06-26

How to Cite

1.
Lam L. Similarities and Differences in Biosimilars: A Literature Review and Summary. Can Dermatol Today [Internet]. 2024 Jun. 26 [cited 2024 Oct. 5];5(2):29–34. Available from: https://canadiandermatologytoday.com/article/view/5-2-lam

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Section

Articles