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Biologics & Biosimilars

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Biologics & Biosimilars - What is it for

What is biologic and biosimilar?

Biosimilars are the non-branded versions of the original biologic. Original reference biologics are usually more expensive because of the high cost of researching and manufacturing them, therefore biosimilars can be marketed once the patent on the original biologic has expired.

Biosimilars are comparable in terms of quality, safety and efficacy to their version of an approved original biologics but are more affordable.

Both biologics and biosimilars are one kind of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (called “DMARDs”). They reduce uncontrolled immune processes and inflammation in your joints, skin, muscles and gut. This improves symptoms, reduces flares, stops disease progression and improves quality of life. 

The term "biologic" or "biosimilar" simply means the medications are derived from animal or human proteins and not from chemicals (like other medications). They are highly effective medications that have been used for years.

How do biologics and biosimilars work?
Biologics and biosimilars target specific parts of the immune system. It can block actions of specific type of immune cells such as white blood cells called T-cell or B-cell. It can also block proteins in the immune system such as tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin (IL) 17-A, IL-12, IL-23, IL-6, interferon and CD-20 (protein found on B-cell). These cells or proteins are known to be involved in the inflammation process of various medical conditions.

​Common Examples of Biologics
​TNF-alpha blocker
​IL-1 blocker
​IL-6 blocker
​IL-17 blocker
​IL- 23 blocker​IL-12/23 blocker
​B-cell blocker
​T-cell blocker

Integrin receptor blocker​
​Adalimumab
Certolizumab
Etanercept
Golimumab
Infliximab
​Anakinra
Canakinumab 
Rilonacept

​Tocilizumab

​Ixekizumab
Secukinumab

​Guselkumab

Risankizumab

​Ustekinumab

​Belimumab
Rituximab
​Abatacept

​Vedolizumab

What are biologics and biosimilars used for?
 
They are indicated in a wide range of medical conditions such as:
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
Juvenile (children) arthritis
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Psoriasis
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Scleroderma

Biologics & Biosimilars - Handling

How should I handle Biologics & Biosimilars safely?

Biologics & Biosimilars - Storage

How should I store Biologics & Biosimilars ?

How should I dispose of Biologics & Biosimilars safely?

Biologics & Biosimilars - Additional Information

  • Updated on 10/31/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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