You may have heard about biosimilar medicines or been told that your treatment is changing to a biosimilar. It's natural to have questions. To help explain what biosimilars are and how they are used in the NHS, we've created a short animation which you can watch below. The frequently asked questions on this page provide some additional information about biosimilars, why they are prescribed, and what switching treatment may mean for you. If you have any questions or concerns about your own treatment, please speak to your healthcare team.
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I've been told I'm switching medicines. Should I be worried?
No. If your healthcare team has recommended a switch to a biosimilar medicine, it is because they are confident it is suitable for your treatment. Biosimilars are approved for use only after extensive testing has shown they meet strict standards for quality, safety and effectiveness.
What exactly is a biosimilar?
A biosimilar is a medicine that is highly similar to an existing biologic medicine that is already widely used in the NHS. Although it may be made by a different manufacturer, it is designed to work in the same way and provide the same clinical benefits.
Why is the NHS using biosimilars?
Biosimilars offer the same treatment benefits as existing biologic medicines but are often available at a lower cost. This means the NHS can use its resources more efficiently and invest savings back into patient care and services.
Will my condition get worse if I switch?
There is no evidence to suggest that patients should expect their condition to worsen simply because they have moved to a biosimilar. The medicines are carefully assessed to ensure they perform in the same way as the biologic medicine they are based on.
Will the medicine look different?
Possibly. The packaging, device, brand name or appearance of the medicine may change. However, these differences do not affect how the medicine works. Your healthcare team will explain any practical differences you need to know about.
How are biosimilars approved?
Before a biosimilar can be prescribed, it must undergo rigorous scientific assessment. Manufacturers must show that the medicine is highly similar to the original biologic medicine and that there are no meaningful differences in safety, quality or effectiveness.
Why are biosimilars less expensive?
The manufacturers of biosimilars can build on knowledge and research that already exists for the original biologic medicine. This reduces development costs, allowing the medicines to be supplied at a lower price.
Will I still receive the same support and monitoring?
Yes. Your treatment will continue to be monitored in exactly the same way. If you have appointments, blood tests or reviews as part of your current treatment plan, these will continue as normal.
What should I do if I notice any side effects after switching?
As with any medicine, if you experience side effects or have concerns about your treatment, you should speak to your healthcare team. They can discuss your symptoms and provide personalised advice.
Can I refuse to switch?
Any changes to your treatment should be discussed with you. If you have concerns about switching, talk to your specialist, nurse, pharmacist or doctor. They can explain why the change has been recommended and answer any questions you may have.
Are biosimilars used for all conditions?
Biosimilars are used to treat a range of conditions, including inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease, as well as some eye conditions and other diseases where biologic medicines are prescribed.
Where can I get more information?
Your healthcare team is the best source of advice about your individual treatment. They can provide information that is specific to your condition and help you understand any proposed changes to your medication.
