What Does It Mean for a Biosimilar to Be Interchangeable and Why Is That Important?

Join Kyle George, PA-C, a rheumatology specialist in Idaho, as he explores the critical role of interchangeable biosimilars in modern healthcare. Biosimilars are biologic medical products that closely resemble FDA-approved reference biologics, demonstrating no clinically meaningful differences in safety, efficacy, or potency. However, not all biosimilars receive the interchangeability designation—so what does that mean, and why is it important?

Interchangeable biosimilars undergo additional switching studies to confirm that patients can transition seamlessly between the biosimilar and its reference product without concerns about reduced efficacy or increased risks. This designation allows for pharmacy-level substitution in certain states, improving access and affordability for patients managing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

As biosimilars continue to reshape the treatment landscape in rheumatology, understanding interchangeability helps providers and patients make informed decisions.

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