Objective: To evaluate differences in physicians’ understanding of biologic and biosimilar medicines in the USA and Europe.

Background: Biologic medicines, such as botulinum toxins and monoclonal antibodies, are often prescribed by neurologists, dermatologists, rheumatologists, oncologists, and gastroenterologists. Biosimilar medicines, which are similar, but not identical, to original innovator biologics, have been approved in many countries. Although biosimilars offer important treatment alternatives, their structural differences compared to innovator biologics can produce significantly different dosing, adverse events, and immunogenicity. It is unclear if physicians have a thorough understanding of the specific differences between the biologics and biosimilars they prescribe.

Methods: Physicians in the USA and in five countries in Western Europe (Spain, UK, Italy, France, and Germany) completed an internet-based survey. Survey participants were recruited from multiple practice settings and the following specialties: Neurology, Nephrology, Rheumatology, Dermatology, Endocrinology, and Oncology.

Results: A total of 376 U.S. and 470 European physicians completed the survey. Over 90% of participants indicated that they prescribed biologic medicines. USA physicians were 43% more likely than European physicians to indicate that two medicines with the same non-proprietary name are structurally identical (76% v 53%). USA physicians were 43% more likely to indicate that two medicines sharing the same non-proprietary name suggests that a patient could safely receive either product and expect the same result (67% v 47%). USA physicians were 64% more likely to indicate that a patient could safely switch between two medicines sharing the same non-proprietary name during treatment and expect the same result (64% v 39%).

Conclusions: This study reveals that a significant portion of physicians in the USA and Europe do not understand important differences between innovator biologics and biosimilars. This lack of knowledge is particularly evident in the USA Clinical trials of biosimilars for each medical indication are needed to define safety and efficacy and inform physicians and patients about the implications of switching medications. Unique names for each biosimilar medication is an essential step toward reducing physician confusion and risk to patients.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/differences-in-physicians-understanding-of-biologic-and-biosimilar-medicines-in-the-usa-and-europe/