Inflammopharmacology

, Volume 25, Issue 2, pp 177–184 | Cite as

Update on biosimilars in rheumatology

Review

Abstract

Biologic agents have become indispensable in the management of autoimmune disease particularly rheumatological conditions. The lives of countless individuals have been improved following treatment with these drugs. Unfortunately, their cost prohibits more widespread use around the globe. This critical issue has been addressed by the introduction of biosimilars into the market. These therapies have been developed to resemble the originator molecule as closely as possible and to increase competition in the therapy area thus allowing costs to be reduced. Our review is intended to offer an update on biosimilars including logistic considerations on their introduction into routine practice.

Keywords

Biologics Biosimilars Rheumatology Health economics Efficacy Safety Logistics 

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Copyright information

© Springer International Publishing 2017

Authors and Affiliations

  1. 1.The Alfred HospitalMelbourneAustralia
  2. 2.Cabrini Medical CenterMalvernAustralia

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