How Can Biosimilars Capture Market Share From Biologic Drugs?

vials with different substances over dollar, concept of copayment getty

Biologic drugs, made from living organisms and usually taken by injection or infusion, are expensive treatments for complex chronic conditions such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. Biosimilars, clinically comparable to biologics and priced lower, create cost-saving opportunities for patients and plan sponsors. Many hoped that biosimilars would quickly gain ground once they entered the market. However, the reality has been disappointing.

A recent report from the Department of Health and Human Services found that, three years after market entry, biosimilars had captured only about half of the market on average. In contrast, generics—identical copies of small molecule, orally taken drugs—typically take 90% of the