Briefly noted: N Chanchlani et al. JPGN 2018; 67: 513-9.  The authors report on the use of infliximab biosimilar (IFX-B), n=82, compared to infliximab originator (IFX-O) in 175.

• While the authors did not find a difference with the biosimilar in terms of efficacy and adverse effects, this finding is quite limited; only 28 in IFX-O and 19 in IFX-B had a physician global assessment data which was used to determine efficacy.
• The authors noted that less than 20% of their patients had a baseline and 3-month followup PCDAI recorded.
• In addition, of those with available data, less than half (44%) had screening for hepatitis B and tuberculosis.
• The authors estimate that 875,000 pounds would have been saved for a 1-year period with universal adoption of biosimilars

My take: This study, due to incomplete data, does not add much to our knowledge about biosimilars.  It does indicate that better screening prior to infusions for HBV and tuberculosis is needed along with more well-documented experience.

Related blog posts:

• Interchangeability, Immunogenecity and Infliximab Biosimilars
• Biosimilars: “The Horse is out of the barn”
• Pediatric Views on Biosimilars and Interchangeability
• Role of Biosimilars in Inflammatory Bowel Disease | gutsandgrowthEuropean Experience with Biosimilars
• Biosimilars -Position Statement
• FDA approves Amjevita (Humira biosimilar)
• Bioequivalence of Biosimilars

Peyto Lake, Banff