Prescribing biosimilars.

What are biosimilars?

A biosimilar medication is a type of biologic medication that is highly similar to its reference biologic medication already approved by the FDA and has no clinically meaningful differences from the reference biologic medication.

This means that the biosimilar will have the same treatments and risks and are safe and effective for treating the same illness as the biologic reference product.

Although biosimilars are not identical to their reference product, the FDA carefully reviews the differences between the reference biologic and the biosimilar to make sure that the biosimilar has the same treatments and risks and is as safe and effective for treating the same illness as the reference biologic medication.

Biosimilars may be available at a lower cost than the original biologic reference product. More information can be found on the FDA biosimilars overview for health care professionals.

Considering a biosimilar for your patient.

The Martin’s Point Generations Advantage formulary includes several biosimilar medications that may offer lower member copays or other cost savings compared with their reference biologic products.

When considering a biosimilar for your patient:

• Review formulary coverage to identify preferred biosimilar options.
• Coordinate with the dispensing pharmacy to confirm product availability.
• Discuss biosimilars with your patient, including their comparable safety and effectiveness and any potential cost savings.
• When clinically appropriate, consider prescribing a preferred biosimilar to help reduce medication costs while maintaining high-quality treatment.

Selecting a formulary-preferred biosimilar, when appropriate, can help support both affordability for patients and responsible use of health care resources. You can find formulary specific information about biosimilars using our Quick Reference Guide.

Additional biosimilar resources.

More information and educational materials for providers and patients can be found on the FDA biosimilar education materials page.