Understanding Biosimilar Drugs

At the time of this writing, the only FDA-approved biosimilar is filgrastim-sndz (Zarxio), a biosimilar that is not interchangeable with its reference product (filgrastim [Neupogen]). There are no currently approved interchangeable biosimilars.

Multiple other biosimilar medications are currently in development. This new type of medication has the potential to reduce drug costs nationwide.

Reference

1. Information on biosimilars. US Food and Drug Administration web site. http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DevelopmentApprovalProcess/HowDrugsareDevelopedandApproved/ApprovalApplications/TherapeuticBiologicApplications/Biosimilars. Accessed October 12, 2016.