Ophthalmology

Recently, the US got 2 new biosimilars on the market, a bevacizumab and an interchangeable ranibizumab; Amneal Pharmaceuticals filed for marketing authorization in Europe; and Sandoz released positive results for a denosumab candidate.

Two posters presented at the annual conference of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) demonstrated positive phase 3 results for proposed biosimilars that reference blockbuster drug, Eylea (aflibercept).

In a review article discussing the role of biosimilars in neovascular retinal diseases, the authors concluded that biologics have significantly improved patient outcomes, noting that vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors are now considered first-line treatments.

As the United Kingdom adds another oncology biosimilar to its collection, the European Medicine Agency’s Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) gave a positive opinion for another ranibizumab candidate.

The European Commission granted marketing authorization to Teva’s ranibizumab biosimilar (Ranivisio), the second ophthalmology biosimilar and the second biosimilar to reference Lucentis to be approved in the European Union.

Another ranibizumab biosimilar, Byooviz, is approved, but Coherus’ product is the first deemed interchangeable, which involves additional FDA requirements that allow substitution without intervention of the prescribing clinician.

In recent weeks, Celltrion Healthcare furthered its adalimumab biosimilar (Yuflyma) by launching the drug in Spain and Portugal and starting a clinical trial in France while Xbrane Biopharma provided an update on the FDA filing of its ranibizumab biosimilar.

As Alvotech announced that dosing of patients with its aflibercept biosimilar candidate has begun, Viatris announces its third recall for a batch of its insulin glargine biosimilar over missing labels.

Samsung Bioepis and Biogen announced that Byooviz has launched on the US market as the first ranibizumab biosimilar referencing Lucentis, listed at a 40% discount compared with the originator.

The United Kingdom has approved Teva Pharmaceutical’s biosimilar (Ongavia) that references Lucentis (ranibizumab) for the treatment of several ophthalmic conditions.

Access to new treatment options for ophthalmic conditions and diabetes is on the rise with the launch of Sandoz’ generic ocular hypertension medication, a new deal to bring a ranibizumab biosimilar to the Middle East, and the initiation of a trial for an insulin glargine biosimilar.

A real-world analysis found similar safety and efficacy profiles between a biosimilar ranibizumab (Razumab) and the reference product (Lucentis, Accentrix) in Indian patients with diabetic macular edema.

Canada’s regulatory agency approved Samsung Bioepis’ Byooviz as the first ranibizumab biosimilar for the Canadian market for the treatment of ophthalmic conditions.

Selexis and Generium launched an omalizumab biosimilar on the Russian market; Remsima sales hit a record high for Celltrion Healthcare; Xbrane Biopharma shares long-term results for its ranibizumab biosimilar.

The year 2022 “is set to be a turning point” in the United States, as biosimilars are on their way to delivering $133 billion in aggregate savings by 2025, according to Cardinal Health's “2022 Biosimilars Report: The U.S. Journey and Path Ahead.”

In a deal to sell the 50% ownership stake, Biogen would receive up to $2.3 billion.

The International Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association has appointed a veteran member, Vivian Frittelli, MBA, ACIS, to take over as chair.

In a recent paper, Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD summarizes some of his central ideas on the relevance of FDA biosimilar testing standards.

Biobetters may gain an edge on reference products, and multiple biosimilars are under development for ophthalmic disorders, the authors write.

Biosimilars have produced more than $20 billion of savings in Europe, but more use of these agents is needed.

With fewer of the risks associated with novel drug development, biosimilar candidates allow manufacturers to plan far into the future for marketing needs.

The year 2021 brought several firsts in biosimilars and set the stage for expansion across therapeutic areas including diabetes and ophthalmology.

Investigators said more evidence would help to convince clinicians of the safety of switching between biosimilar products.

Xbrane Biopharma of Stockholm, Sweden, said its next biosimilar candidates will target the demand for oncology and hematology therapeutics.

Henlius gains approval in China for Hanbeitai and officials discuss combination therapy options with experimental therapy serplulimab and ophthalmology treatment.

Researchers report findings that suggest a different reimbursement system for Medicare Part B biologics could lead to significantly more robust savings.

An expert on biotherapeutics recommends more science be applied to World Health Organization (WHO) biosimilar guideline revisions.

Sarah Yim, MD, provided a point-by-point overview of the FDA's efforts to clarify the role of the interchangeable biosimilar designation, improve communication with manufacturers, and pay for biosimilar regulatory reviews.

In its third quarter earnings report, Amgen addressed the give and take of biosimilar competition.

The arrival of Susvimo, an ocular implant for treatment of macular degeneration, poses a challenge for ophthalmic reference products and biosimilars.