Feasibility of Biosimilar Integration in Oncology Practice

The therapeutic value of biologics is of extreme importance in the treatment of most major cancers. Biologics account for half of the oncologic pharmacology market. As the population of the United States ages, the demand for biologics is expected to increase. The future supply of biologics may be prohibited by cost. Biosimilar biologics are highly similar to existing Food and Drug Administration-licensed biologics and have the potential to meet biological demand. Market introduction of biosimilars at a lower cost than reference biologics creates an opportunity for reducing the nation’s financial burden. Despite the obvious gains from biosimilar use, adoption into clinical practice continues to lag. Numerous factors, including a lack of education on the part of prescribers, continue to hinder the widespread adoption of biosimilars into practice. The purpose of this integrative review is to examine the evidence surrounding biosimilar determination and ascertain if adult patients diagnosed with cancer can be treated with biosimilars as compared to reference biologics without a compromise in safety and efficacy throughout the course of therapy.