Ever-changing landscape of biosimilars in Canada; findings and implications from a global perspective

Author byline as per print journal: Brian Godman1,2,3, BSc, PhD; Eleonora Allocati4, BSc, MSc; Evelien Moorkens5, BSc, MSc Abstract: Siu et al. comprehensively assessed the rapidly changing regulation and reimbursement environment for biologicals and biosimilars in Canada and the resultant implications. The current situation in Canada is compared with similar initiatives across different countries to […]


Korean regulations for biosimilars

Abstract: Regulations for biosimilars in the Republic of Korea have been in place since 2009. Since then, the country has also put in place specific guidelines and approved four biosimilars. Submitted: 18 December 2014; Revised: 23 February 2015; Accepted: 9 March 2015; Published online first: 20 March 2015 The legislative basis for the regulation of […]


Is Australia positioned to take advantage of biosimilars?

Abstract: Australia currently has a small generic and biosimilar medicine industry despite having a good track record in biomedical research and a sound reputation in producing high quality but small volume biological pharmaceuticals. In recent times, Australia has made incremental changes to its regulation of biosimilars – in patent registration, in the use of commercial […]


Regulation of biologicals in Malaysia

Abstract: The regulatory oversight of biologicals in Malaysia is established by the National Pharmaceutical Control Bureau (NPCB), Ministry of Health. At the agency, the Section on Biotechnology Product Registration exercises the marketing authorization function as the National Regulatory Authority (NRA). This paper provides an overview of the organization, regulatory expectations and current practices of the […]


Access to alternative biopharmaceuticals in low- and middle-income countries

Abstract: Alternative biopharmaceuticals could substantially improve affordability of biotherapeutics in developing countries. However, it seems that these countries need a modified regulatory pathway to guarantee timely access to these medicines. Submitted: 27 August 2014; Revised: 14 September 2014; Accepted: 15 September 2014; Published online first: 29 September 2013 In recent years, biotherapeutics have gained a […]


Comparison of biosimilars guidelines

Abstract: This paper provides a detailed comparison of biosimilars guidelines issued in Canada, the European Union, Japan and Korea; and by the World Health Organization (WHO). This comparison highlights the need for harmonization of global regulatory standards for the approval of biosimilars. Biosimilars are recognized around the world as safe and effective medicines. Despite this […]


Equivalence of generic medicines in general and immunosuppressants in particular – a regulatory opinion on switching of ciclosporin, tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil

Abstract: This position paper deals with our regulatory opinion on registered generic immunosuppressants such as ciclosporin, tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil, and provides arguments why these medicines are considered equally safe and effective as the branded drug based on demonstrated bioequivalence. Though regulators acknowledge the worries from the field, we are of the opinion that there […]