Dr. Weise Discusses the Value of Biosimilars in Oncology

Martina Weise, MD, head of Division Licensing 2, and German CHMP member of the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices, discusses the value of biosimilars in oncology.

Weise says that some people in the oncology space may be reluctant to accept biosimilars, as the quest for novel drugs targeting new mechanisms of action is often on the forefront of research efforts. With biosimilars, the field is essentially getting more of the same drug, but Weise says that the reduction in cost that biosimilars could bring may be able to pay for newer and potentially more effective treatments in the future. The sustainability of healthcare systems will depend on the competition and price reductions that biosimilars could introduce to the market, Weise says.

This sentiment is starting to change, though, as physicians and healthcare professionals are beginning to understand the utility and benefits of biosimilars. Additionally, oncologists now have a better understanding of the scientific principles of biosimilar development, for which the guidelines are very stringent.