FDA Gets U.S. One Step Closer to Interchangeable Biosimilars (1)

Pharmacists are a step closer to seamlessly switching between a biologic drug and a cheaper alternative called a biosimilar thanks to final industry advice for drugmakers the FDA released May 10.

Biologic drugs are some of the most expensive products on the market because they’re complicated to make, made from living cells, and treat serious conditions like cancer. Consequently, being able to utilize cheaper biosimilar versions is expected to save patients, governments, and insurance companies billions of dollars in the long run.

The biosimilar market in the U.S. hasn’t prospered like it has in Europe, however, and industry observers say ...