Evidence That Regulatory And Market Forces Are Driving Adoption Of Biosimilars

Biosimilars present a key opportunity to contain the growing cost of biologic drug spending and to make essential medications more affordable. However, the lackluster performance of the US biosimilar market in its first decade was met with disappointment and concern for its future viability. To evaluate the evolution of the biosimilar market, we reviewed key distinctions in medication classes and the financial stakeholders involved in each. Within this context, we examined recent evidence that suggests that the maturing postapproval biosimilar marketplace is flourishing. The entry of biosimilars for adalimumab offers a case study demonstrating these recent market and policy dynamics. Building on recent gains, policy makers could take additional steps to accelerate biosimilar adoption through both payment and regulatory policy levers.