Rheumatoid Arthritis: Plenty to Consider
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Plenty to Consider
In this video, we meet a rheumatoid arthritis patient and her physician who are discussing some of the important considerations around innovator biologics and biosimilars.
As any rheumatoid arthritis patient would need to do, they talk about the differences between the two types of drugs, cost of treatment and how the patient can investigate coverage through her employer’s private insurance benefit. This vital conversation also addresses the idea of switching medications and the importance of getting the exact medication the patient is prescribed.
To treat your rheumatoid arthritis, I’m prescribing a biologic medicine.
There are two types of biologic medicines: innovator biologics and biosimilars.
What’s the difference? Is it like brand name drugs versus generics? Not quite.
Generics are small molecule drugs and are exact replicas of brand-name versions. Innovator biologics and biosimilars are large molecule drugs that are grown in living systems and involved complicated manufacturing processes.
Because of this complexity, biologics and similar, but not identical to the innovator biologics they attempt to copy. When biosimilars are approved for use in patients, it does not mean that they are the same – or interchangeable – like it does with small molecule generics.
You should also know that innovator biologics can be more expensive.
I certainly don’t want to make decisions based on cost. I have health coverage through my employer. Would my medication be covered?
It may! Speak to someone in human resources at your work to make sure.
Is there anything else I should know?
Make sure you’re getting the medication you expect when you fill and renew your prescription.
You need to be aware of the possibility of switching medication for non-medical reasons. Health Canada recommends that any decision to switch from the innovator biologic to a biosimilar be made between the treating physician and patient.
Do you have any other questions?
No, I think that covers it. Thank you
As a result of significant investments in sophisticated, innovative research on new medications and treatments, scientists are beginning to unlock solutions to address chronic, incurable medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
One area of this groundbreaking innovation is in the field of biologic medicines.
When being prescribed an innovator biologic medicine or biosimilar, patients, caregivers and physicians have a lot to consider.
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, speak to your doctor about your treatment, understand what is best for you and always make sure you are getting the medication you expect.